In a previous message, I suggested Holiday Catering as a possible business idea. It should be noted that this is a very viable business concept. I have more than one client that does seasonal and holiday catering only and they make a very good supplemental income doing it and yes, they do it legally.

There were a couple of posts that eluded to the fact that this business concept is a "pipe dream". How negative. If you love preparing food and have always wanted to do something like this - go for it!! Since we are in the season already, start planning for next year.

Make sure you do your due diligence and research this concept thoroughly before starting. As with all businesses thorough research, planning and commitment regardless of whether you plan to start them full time, part time or on a moonlighting basis is required.

Please make sure you check with your local county and city for food handling requirements, licensing, insurance and zoning regulations regarding catering from your home.

It should also be noted that some counties and/or cities do not allow commercial food preparation from a residence and you would have to use a commercial kitchen in lieu of preparing food from your home. If this is the case, please check for the following resources:

Possible commercial options:

* Commercial Kitchen in Church
* Small Business Incubator (many have commercial kitchen)
* Commercial Kitchen Rentals (check with your local small business development center)

Associations

Association of Catering & Event Professionals
http://www.acep.com/

BOOKS
Start and Run a Catering Business
by George Erdosh

How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business (4th Edition)
by Denise Vivaldo

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ADVICE
www.score.org
www.womenaboutbiz.com

Trina Newby
Founder/CEO
Women About Biz
"If You're A Businesswoman You Belong!"