How to Start a Banquet Hall Business in Michigan

Hire enthusiastic local staff to delight banquet patrons and help Michigan's economy.

Nothing rivals a Midwest-style banquet for good times. Even when wind and snow are whipping across Lake Michigan in the dead of winter, a banquet hall offers refuge to families and friends coming together for special occasions. Whether you've chosen Ann Arbor, Troy or the Detroit suburbs for your new business, put a signature spin on your banquet hall and you'll enjoy a share of each celebration.

Things You'll Need

• Funds
• Building
• Permits
• Licenses
• Theme
• Fee menu
• Services menu

Instructions

1. Drum up funds to launch your banquet hall. Approach Michigan-based lending institutions for funds -- local is better -- as the State of Michigan's ongoing campaign to support new business ventures encourages banks and investors to underwrite start-ups like the one you're planning. Apply for an un-collateralized business loan if your credit is excellent or use that boat anchored at New Buffalo as collateral to help turn your business plan into action.

2. Tour area banquet halls to scope out the competition. Take notes on hall capacity, amenities, services and importantly, decorating theme. Whether you plan to turn your Michigan banquet hall into an homage to Motor City or Motown, using the state's rich history to drive your interior décor can mean the difference between a few bookings and a full calendar once word spreads.

3. Rent or purchase a building that's at least 5,000 square feet to accommodate up to 300 guests. Michigan's economy has suffered setbacks so finding sensational real estate bargains won't be problematic. Use a local Realtor to negotiate the deal. Location is always critical, but if you're willing to do what it takes to turn your banquet hall into an unforgettable destination, you'll lure bookings even if the place is off Kalamazoo's beaten track.

4. Acquire licenses and permits. Michigan's Liquor Control Commission is located in Lansing. Food and beverage-related licensing requests are funneled through this bureau. Visit Michigan's web site if you don't want to travel to Lansing, but before you proceed, read Michigan Law 436.1522 (section 522) covering banquet hall permits (see resources). Be forewarned: if you have a criminal record in Michigan or elsewhere, your application to serve alcohol may be refused.

5. Nail down your rates, matching them to those of competitors. Refer to the service and catering menus you collected while touring banquet halls (Step #2) to compare features and benefits so your banquet hall looks as good on paper to potential renters as it does in person. Follow in the footsteps of 29th Street Hall, a Michigan banquet facility: launch a web site to attract business.

6. Book events before opening your doors. Michigan brides reserve reception venues a year -- maybe more -- in advance of their nuptials, so start filling your calendar as soon as your licenses and permits arrive from Lansing. Meet and form alliances with area retailers specializing in china and linen rentals, local florists, bakers, invitation and formal wear shops. Recruit an experienced, enthusiastic staff for your banquet all and everyone benefits, from your customers to Michigan's economy.

References

• Michigan Wedding Solutions: Michigan Reception Sites
• Michigan.gov: Liquor Control Commission
• 29th Street Banquet Hall: Rates and Guidelines
• Michigan Attorney Resources: Banquet Facility Permits
• Michigan.gov: Liquor Control Code and Administrative Rules

Resources

• Michigan Attorney Resources: Banquet Facility Permits
• Michigan.gov: Liquor Control Code and Administrative Rules