How to Start a Catering Business
If you’re passionate about cooking and wish to pursue a career in which you can practice something you absolutely love and adore then starting a catering business is just the thing for you. A self-catering business requires lesser start-up costs compared to most businesses. Here are a few things to be kept in mind when starting one. How to Start a Catering Business.
Catering Business Plan Template
Writing a Good Business Plan
Writing a good business plan is crucial to all businesses and like all others, it is crucial to a catering business as well. A good business plan covers each and every step in the process of establishing your business.
Research Your Competition
Studying your competition present in the market is always a good idea. Before starting up your business, it is important that you know your competition. This will help you in planning your menus, pricing and getting things in order.
Writing Your Catering Menu
The choice of menu is completely up to you and your convenience. It may be as simple as finger rolls and potato chips or as elaborate and elegant as caviar and truffles. Writing a menu is your choice and be sure to select a perfect niche for yourself. Select a niche and excel at it.
Establish Your Brand Name
It is imperative that you select a good name as it will stick with you in the long run. Make sure you pick one that you’re not embarrassed telling other people. Make it a good one and work on making it known.
Get Licensed
Getting your business licensed is also a very important step. Many states require your food businesses to be licensed, insured and permitted. You will also have to incorporate your business so you can pay taxes.
Hiring Staff
You will need more staff once your business starts to grow. Even when you start out, you’ll need a crew. Although in the starting years, the staff will probably be part-time. Look for responsible individuals who you can trust with your business.
Purchasing Equipment
The equipment initially required will depend on your budget and start-up costs. Upgrade little by little as you establish yourself and your business. Once you start expanding your business, you’ll need more equipment as well.
Marketing
Investing in a website is always a good idea. You may be on a tight budget in the beginning, but this will prove profitable to your business. Your website should have your contact info, menu packages, and prices. Also, put up good pictures of the food you’re offering and of past events you have covered. Use as many ways to promote and market your catering business as you can. This is what will draw in most of your business.
To get your catering businesses organized and increase your chances of funding check out this business plan template: Catering Business Plan Template
Catering Business Plan Template
