Start up catering business
jackie
09/05/06 		Just found this sight last night. Only got about 4 hours of sleep last night but I can not believe the wealth of information on this website. Thanks for your hard work - excellant website.

I have decided to start doing some catering events to supplement my income. What would you suggest as the most important purchases I make with my start up money? Thanks in advance for your help.

ellen
09/06/06 		Hi, Jackie,

#0 a DBA license- about $12 at city hall

#1 INSURANCE- liability, and more

#2 Health department licensing, which usually requires, a kitchen remodel or renting an already licensed kitchen.

#3 Sellers' or tax permits- your state board of equalization

You need bookkeeping experience or a bookeeper, too.

The failure rate for caterers is terrible- 60% or more within two years. Usually, successful caterers have 5 to 15 years of experience before startingtheir own businesses, and many fail because of lack of business knowledge. Just being a good cook is not enough. There is a good professional site chef2chef.com where these issues are discussed extensively. Check it out.

ellen
11/01/06 		Above are a few notes on business start-up.