subject: How To Start A Business In Catering Services [print this page] Starting a catering business is a major undertaking. What does it take to start a catering business? First, is personal sacrifice. All new businesses require long hours and a great deal of self-discipline. Many new businesses hit a few bumps, so the ability to rise above difficult and often frustrating obstacles, along with a strong desire to succeed is mandatory.
A service business which often relies on word of mouth for new clients, a catering business requires superior customer service in addition to your love of food preparation. One unfavorable comment from a client could mean the difference between a successful business and living check to check, worried about if you will be able to meet your expenses for the month.
Before opening a catering business, it is important to check the local area to see if there is a demand for your business, especially is you are considering specializing in a certain type of food or event. How are the local catering companies doing? Is there a large enough population to support another catering company? Check out other catering companies who would be your competition. What do you bring to the market that is unique or better than your competitors?
Creating a business plan may seem like a strictly intellectual exercise, however a good business plan will help you stay on track, help you remember the big picture and will go a long way in giving you business ideas creditability when you present your ideas for funding or small business grants. Keep in mind that a business plan is a road map and reference tool which you update as your business grows.
If you are comfortable with the financial and personal investment required to start a catering business, the first step is to get the legal requirements in order. All business require insurance as a safety net against both everyday incidents and catastrophic losses. Without such coverage, you run the risk of loosing your entire business over one unforeseen accident.
Once you have your finances in order, you are ready to start purchasing the necessary equipment to run your business. Your start-up equipment will include kitchen appliances, food preparation and serving utensils and of course dishes, glasses and silverware. If budget is tight, you can always start with the basics and rent additional equipment you need for larger catering jobs. Just remember to include rental costs in your estimate.
Now you have your finances and your catering equipment in place, it is time to start booking work. Every business needs customers to survive, so marketing and sales will be an ongoing process you must master if you want to stay in business for any length of time.
So where do you go to find new clients? The very best way to find new clients is word of mouth. Tell your friends, family and the business people you come in contact with on a regular basis, such as your hair dresser or child care provider that you are open for business. Quite often when people are looking for a catering service, the first thing they do is ask friends and family for recommendations. Keep this in mind and don't be shy about promoting yourself.
Other marketing tools include advertising in local newspapers and the phone book. A professional website is a must, and make sure to include photos of your culinary creations. Contact other local complimentary businesses, such as florist, party rental supplies or banquet halls and offer to reciprocal links. Ask if they have a newsletter they email to their customers and see if you can include a link. Marketing doesn't have to be expensive, especially if you are creative and partner with local business to create relationship in which everyone benefits.
by: Rachel Davis
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