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Green Caterer

Good food is particularly enjoyable when one does not have to cook it or clean up afterwards. Hiring a caterer for a big event, important dinner or holiday evening can make things go that much easier and faster for you. However if you are living green, you may be reluctant to hire someone who does not share the same beliefs. Hiring a green caterer to do the job may be the perfect solution for both your catering needs and your green standards.

What does it take to get started in this career?

A love for food preparation is necessary but love does not always equal skill. You have to be able to meticulously and safely prepare all manners of foods and food products, transport them, set them up, serve them and keep them replenished during the course of the meal. You also have maintain food safety during all these processes.

What license, permits or other documentation do I need?

You will need a food vendor's license and a business permit in most areas of the country and in some parts you may not actually need both. In addition, you may need a zoning permit if you are running your business out of your home while you are just getting established.

What will make it green?

You should know that you will have to adjust the way that you run your business, from the way that you prepare foods to the way that you store and transport them as well. Reducing the amount of waste that you generate is only the first step that you should be taking in becoming a green caterer. Using less water to clean your pots, pans and equipment is important as well. Solar cooking is another option that you should seriously consider.

Who is the target audience?

You will be trying to attract anyone who might need a caterer. In addition your target audience would be those who want to be more ecologically-friendly and would prefer to hire this type of company as well.

Who is the competition?

You will compete for clients with both green and non-green caterers- the smaller the area, the fiercer the competition might become.

What is the start up costs for this type of business?

First, you will have to purchase the equipment that you need, including solar cooker, solar oven, etc. You will need ecologically-friendly pots, pans, dinnerware and accessories. Your catering van should be a hybrid or at least as fuel efficient as possible. In addition, you will need the money to buy the food, spices and other items for your first catered meal. The amount that you will need will depend on how large or small the event is, what type of food is being served and the type of service you will be providing, such full table service, buffet, etc.

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