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I’m taking the leap.. seeking advice

 
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RetiredMember

posts: 56

Aug 31, 2007 4:28 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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Heck NO!


Starting to get business lined up before you start is smart! That way, you can hit the ground running....


OldNikko2007-9-3 0:18:22
Raisecapital02

posts: 301

Sep 01, 2007 1:26 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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People are always looking for some catering. I think it is a great idea, and you should go for it. How many people do you think could regularly support a business like this in your area? Once you get your first client, the rest should be easy.

RetiredMember

posts: 56

Sep 02, 2007 4:55 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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OldNikko2007-9-3 0:17:57
donielle

posts: 47

Sep 03, 2007 5:28 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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Sounds like a great idea--I agree with the previous posts about doing your due diligence with a business plan. However, just because you are in the process of writing your plan doesn`t mean that you can`t start laying your foundation.

The resort that you are talking to is probably a great source of information. You can find out from them what types of services people are asking about that the resort doesn`t offer.  If you can become the best (and maybe only) person doing that you will have a great customer base to begin to sell other services too. Also, I would think that you could also create a package of services that allows people to really relax because everything else is taken care of...just a thought!

Good luck!


-------------------------

Gutsy Partners, LLC
1 Corinthians 2:9
Stop Dreaming. Start Doing.
jillybeans

posts: 361

Sep 04, 2007 4:46 AM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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ABSOLUTELY begin networking.  As to "catering" you will need to find out if you have to rent kitchen space or be specifically approved by the local health dept., you`ll possibly need special equipment including serving containers for delivery (might be able to rent it all, but you`ll need to know the costs), you need to get a menu together (if you`re good at creating on the computer, you could do it this way) and business cards.  You`ll want to figure out jobs you don`t want to do and see if you know someone you can refer to (affiliate referral fee?).  How big is the resort and would there be enough business or should you find a few hotels and motels to offer your services too.  Who will assist you when you get multiple bookings that overlap? or will it be a first come first serve basis?

A lot to think about -- so get thinking!  Good luck!

Jillybeans
HelenS

posts: 7

Sep 06, 2007 6:02 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
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Just a followup to the Health Department comment  Some cities allow you to cook in your own kitchen but others require a commercial kitchen outside of your home if you are catering.  Some businesses  have commercial kitchen space that they are not using full time and you can rent on an as needed basis. Some health food stores with kitchens also rent them out on certain days or times.  Check around and see if you can rent a part time kitchen while you are getting started. Doing that would let you avoid renting space full time until the business can support the rent and the purchase of all the commercial kitchen equipment.(second hand kitchen equipment stores are great places to look). If that is not an option maybe you could find a like minded person (who wanted to start a homemade salsa or jam and jellies business) and you could share the expense of the kitchen.Working from home as long as possible gives you a chance to spend money on other things like advertising.

Best wishes for your new venture

 

HelenS2007-9-6 18:6:15
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