I am only a teenager and want to become a chef.........so I wanted to get started early and start my own catering business in my home....I would do it in the summer, over breaks, and weekends.......I am super excited but do I have to have a permit or something? Can I just start it or what do I have to do? Is this realistic? How and what do I have to do?????? Any help, tips, and advice is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
1: If you enjoy cooking, as well as planning the menu, you might think about starting a catering business. There are many occasions that might have a need for a caterer, such as a wedding, a graduation party, or a birthday. Many companies also use caterers for special holiday parties or other events. There are a few things to consider before you begin.Step 2: Be sure to contact your state and local governments to see what the requirements are for starting a catering business. You may need permits, inspections, licenses, and insurance. Some of this can be rather pricey, but once you have received the paperwork, the fun can begin.Step 3: Decide if you need another workspace besides your home. Many catering companies begin out of the owner s home. If you plan to cater to large events, you may want to find a large, industrial type kitchen to rent.Step 4: Determine what type of food you wish to offer. It s best to have several menu styles that might mix the food you are comfortable cooking. When you are first starting out, you may wish to keep your food rather simple. If they require extensive preparation time, be sure you can have the food where it needs to be when you promised it.Step 5: You might consider taking a few classes to help you polish up on some of the more difficult techniques needed for unique dishes. This can really help boost your confidence and skill levels. Plus, when asked, you can say that you have taken cooking classes, which makes potential customers feel comfortable with your abilities.Step 6: You may eventually need to hire help that is above all, dependable. You can completely destroy your reputation with one bad server or assistant cook. Be sure you know who your people are and if they will provide the best possible service. Your business is on the line with each and every employee.Step 7: You will need several serving dishes, chafing dishes, silverware, glasses, pitchers, tablecloths, napkins, and many other items. You will also need a way to get all of these items and the food to the service location. This can be the largest expensive of the business setup. Find some websites that sell catering supplies at affordable prices below in the Resources section.Step 8: Word of mouth is the best form of advertisement. If you have completed service to a few people, don t hesitate to ask them for a reference, if needed. If your service was excellent, most will not mind at all.Step 9: The yellow pages and flyers are also good forms of advertisements. Radio and television can quickly build your business, but are rather expensive. However, this is definitely an option if you have the advertising budget.Step 10: Above everything else, make sure the food is outstanding. You will get more return business based upon this one aspect than anything else.Things You ll Need:Permits, license, etc. Catering supplies Cooking equipment Excellent food choices
Yes, you have to have a business license and a license from your local health department to prepare food for public consumption. Your kitchen and home will have to pass inspection from the health department.
how about start small or think of a product like make food or crafts or a law firm if you do those things start small and hire a couple people goo luck! :)
