Party Catering Business Secrets

Party Catering Business Secrets
By James Amwell

Success in the party-catering field is measured by the success of each and every one of your functions. Clients will look to you when hosting milestone celebrations: weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or retirements. You will need to help make each party memorable. Going above and beyond will not only ensure an unforgettable event but will help to strengthen your name in the industry.

A party-catering business requires you to be part event planner, part caterer. Clients will need you to take on more responsibilities such as handling decorations and flowers, deciding on and booking venues, or organizing a theme for the party.

However, as the caterer, your main focus will always be the food-it's the first thing people ask about after a big shindig, and will be what sets your events apart. Be sure to listen to your client carefully. Get an idea for food preferences by understanding their menu requirements and don't be afraid to make suggestions. Even if they don't take your advice, they'll appreciate your initiative and creativity.

Also, make sure to seize any opportunities to convert a modest get together into an extravagant celebration. Imagine how simply a backyard barbecue can be transformed into a festive Hawaiian-themed pig roast with just a few decorations and the right equipment.

The happiness of just a few key people will determine the success of your entire event: the hosts and the guest of honor. Learn everything you can about the honoree. You'll want a general idea of who he or she is-interests, tastes, experiences, successes, future goals, etc.-in order to properly plan for the party.

Personalizing the event will ensure a unique and memorable occasion for both the honoree and the guests. But don't forget about your hosts. Getting to know them on more than just a superficial level will help you to seal the deal far better than any cheesy sales pitch or persuasive approach you can muster.

The general goal of your operation will be to provide immaculate service and scrumptious food for a price that virtually anyone can afford. You will need to work closely with your client to ensure that you execute their vision within their budget. Each job will follow the same basic steps. Your work begins when a client contacts you with an idea for an event.

You will need to discuss these thoroughly so that you know what they expect from you and from the function itself. You will then need to translate their ideas into a proposal. This will include your menu, pricing, and any venue, decoration, or theme you'd think would be an appropriate fit. Avoid giving them a financial estimate until your proposal is finished.

If they insist, however, tell them that you charge $150 per hour plus expenses, and that these can range greatly depending on the needs of the event and their personal preferences. Remind them that this is only a ballpark figure and that your proposal will provide a more accurate number. Set another meeting to present your proposal and to discuss any suggestions or changes they might have.

They will need to approve your plans and all details before they will leave you an initial deposit. Only once the event is over, will you receive the final payment. Plan carefully and deliver spectacularly every time and your party-catering business will be a success.

James Amwell is a cooking enthusiast and author. He lives in "San Francisco" and spends his time teaching others how to start and setup an amazing Catering business. His latest book, "Secrets of Starting Your Own Catering Business: Your Recipe for Success" is available at http://www.secretsofcatering.com/

To help you get started you will receive his FREE 10 day mini course at http://www.secretsofcatering.com/

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