For aspiring business owners, there are things you need to consider before starting your catering business. Whether you want to do it part-time or full-time, the time has never been more perfect to start. You just need to equip yourself with the right knowledge before putting in the work of building your own catering business this 2022.
- Do The Research
You need to identify what kind of catering business you want to open. There are caterers that specialized in a single type of food, like finger food and pastries. There are also others that offer services such as floral arrangements, a champagne fountain, and a whole lot more. Whatever you choose, make sure you have done your homework. Know what is feasible and what you can offer to your potential clients.
- Set Your Pricing
After identifying the kind of catering business you want to pursue, it is time to consider your pricing strategy. Your price will depend mainly on your location and the catering options you will offer. There are also businesses that offer a level of service based on the customer’s budget. You should also peek into your competitors and find out how much they charge as it will help you gauge your own pricing as well.
- Obtain Licenses & Permits
Step three is identifying whether you will operate as a home-based or commercial caterer, most states will only license one or the other. For places that require a business license and possibly a catering license or permit, there are health inspectors that usually pop in to ensure that all state and local requirements for commercial food preparation are being met. Be ready with the requirements and always comply with them to avoid unnecessary situations that may arise.
- Locate a Suitable Cooking Space
Whether it is home-based or renting a space, it is important to conduct thorough research. For starters, it may be best to be home-based to minimize costs. However, your home will need to pass an inspection so being up to date with all the health and safety standards is a must.
There are also restaurants that are open to renting out their kitchen space after business hours. You can take advantage of their facilities to make it easier to cook and prepare.
- Create a Menu
This is the fun part, creating your menu and testing out your own dishes. Make sure to offer a variety of options to suit different tastes like spicy and non-spicy options. Even though you may specialize in a specific cuisine, ensure that the menu will also appeal to multiple tastebuds.
During this stage, try as much as possible. You can host a party with friends and family to test the menu. Ask for feedback or suggestions and make changes as necessary. Remember, practice really does make a difference. Work on smoothing out the cooking technique, cooking time, and even presentation so that your customers will be able to experience the perfect dish.
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE CATALOG BELOW:
