First one has to make the decision to start their own catering business. Once the decision is made a Catering Company Plan should be formed. There are many differences between purchasing a previously owned catering business to starting one from scratch. If you choose to start a catering business from scratch your first step is to apply for a license to operate as a caterer. Anyone can purchase a catering license at their local Health Department. The Health Department will then inspect and check to be sure that you have the capacity to operate in an area where food will be cooked. The legal requirements include a business license (as previously mentioned), a certificate of occupancy, a fictitious business name and a tax license.
Now, after you have completed the legal requirements the next step is to become your own employer, set up a work plan, learn the basics of sales tax, and gain knowledge in the areas of payroll and bookkeeping. A successful catering business is run by a successful mind.
Your business is beginning to take shape, at least on paper. To create the business visually one has to purchase the cooking utensils, chairs and tables. Many caterers find decorative props helpful and as a bonus they are considered an added feature that sets you apart from others. Also, you have to have a separate place for the food operation, the preparation and cooking. After you have worked out all of these details you can begin promoting your new business.
This is such an exciting time to learn how to start a catering business. It is when you decide your market and your product. You decide whether you want to concentrate on parties, receptions, conferences, dinners, or a combination of these options. To help make your decision research other caterers in your area. Find out what they specialize in. As you complete this step you can begin your menu planning and your advertising. Before you know it your catering business has taken off and you are your own successful boss. Soon people will be asking for you to cater all of their special affairs.