Being a caterer is actually a very cool job. All you do is provide cooking or feeding services at strategic places, and just like that, you are making real money.
Okay, it may not be as simple as I said, but being a professional caterer is just like any other profession. I can head you in the right direction and watch you blossom. Follow me.

1. Make a plan:
This is the first step in any business venture or adventure. This involves carrying out research on the various aspects of the business, competitors, distributors and good connections. You shouldn’t start a catering business or any business without first having a plan. Most importantly, you will need to decide on whether you want to provide your services to Homes, Companies, Hotels, Schools, or Fast foods. Did I forget to mention that you must have your capital ready by now? I just did.

2. Budget and Finance Needed:
We all know that having a business idea is simple but finance is always a setback for most people. The cost of starting a catering business depends on your proposed area of specialization. You can start a catering business with N300, 000 in Nigeria. This should cover the cost of utensils, equipment, logistics, and materials. The possible means of getting finance to fund this business include a loan from Bank, loan from money lenders, grant from your state government, corporate affairs, and individuals, or assistance from your friends and family members, etc.

3. Legalizing your business:
After you must have gotten your startup capital ready, visit any of the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria (CAC) offices nationwide to register your business with the government. You can get comprehensive information on this by taking a walk into any of the CAC offices nationwide or by visiting the CAC official website.

4. Make an Inventory:
Make an inventory of everything you will need for your catering business. Both the things you have and the ones you don’t that can be rented or bought or leased. Some include;

>Utensils
> Blenders
> Food storage containers
> Chopping boards
> Mixers
> Refrigerators and freezers
> Rolling Carts
> Uniforms
> Gloves
> Van
> Microwave ovens
> Dispensers
> Tin foil
> Garbage bags

5. Staffing:
Depending on the kind of catering service you want to start, size of staff can be large or small. Indoor catering doesn’t require a large staff count. But you will need a large-sized staff for it to run smoothly. You can either employ staff or work with them on a contract basis. And make sure you are working with professionals as they will be the face of your company. So proper vetting should be done for each staff member and if possible having their guarantors contacts.

6. Location:
A well and neatly arranged office will boost your clients’ number base, your office should be situated in a high profile area this will attract corporate bodies to patronize you.

7. Marketing and Advertising:
You need a good advert that will entice passers-by. Your advert must be inviting and well branded. You may need to print complementary cards and flyers to share at every occasion you attend.

Finally, treat your clients well. They will surely introduce you to their families and friends. With the above steps, you are assured of making it big in this business. If you follow them properly, you should become a professional caterer in a few months.

We will like to hear about your success story. Peradventure you have any challenge in this business, feel free to ask us questions, and we will gladly reply.