What Do I Need to Start a Small Catering Business?
Staring a small catering business may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but relax. There are only a few, easily obtainable items that you will need to start your small catering business. Before you can really get started, Entrepreneur.com recommends renting a small commercial kitchen and organizing your recipes. From there, only a few more items are required.
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Business License
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You must have a business license for the place from which you plan to operate. While it is possible in some states to license your own home kitchen, All Culinary Schools recommends that caterers rent out a small commercial kitchen. It is much easier to license a commercial space than a home kitchen, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Business Insurance
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It is not possible to run your small catering business without business insurance. Insurance for your business will protect you against accidents, lawsuits and food poisoning, according to Catering Business. In the food business, where flames and hot surfaces are prevalent, and sharp knives are frequently used, kitchen accidents are entirely possible. Business insurance for your catering company will protect you from significant financial loss if an incident occurs.
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A Menu
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Creating a menu for your catering business involves narrowing down your options into an easy list, says All Culinary Schools. They suggest examining the dishes that you excel in and choosing your specialties. Be sure to include several different options on your menu, and prepare to be flexible with customers. Catering Business suggests choosing foods that can easily be prepared ahead of time, can be prepared in bulk, and that keep well. These types of food will give you the most profit from a catering business.
Prices
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Although setting prices for your business can seem overwhelming at first, Catering Business explains that it is easy to set your own prices. Experts recommend multiplying the retail value of your meals three to fives times, depending on how far you have to travel to your event. The key is to keep your own costs low, such as being willing to substitute lower cost ingredients into dishes if necessary.
Marketing Plan
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Once you have all of the equipment, all you need to do is spread the word about your new business. To get the word out, Entrepreneur.com suggests networking with people who would do work at events, such as florists, photographers, country clubs and bakeries. Print up brochures and leave them with your contacts. Another suggestion Entrepreneur.com makes is to have excellent service. If you provide exceptional service, your clients will be sure to recommend you to their friends, doing a lot of your marketing for you.
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References
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