If you are looking for a new career, consider becoming one of the many caterers in Michigan who own their own business. Catering in Michigan is a large part of the food and beverage industry. Caterers provide specialized services, ranging from food catering to complete event planning services.

Anyone considering starting a catering business in MI should realize that it is first and foremost a lot of hard work, especially in the early months and years. There is no such thing as 9:00 to 5:00 in the catering business. Weekends, evenings and holidays are all busy times for most food caterers, so you must be comfortable working odd hours. Other things to consider include:

1. Legalities: You need to make sure your catering services in Michigan are legal and that you obtain the proper licenses and insurance.
2. Marketing and customer service: You need to find out where your catering services fit in with all the other caterers in Michigan.
3. Bookkeeping: You may need a loan to help your catering company growing. You also need to keep track of your finances.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Start your Michigan catering services off on the right foot

Starting a catering business in MI requires that you apply for a retail food license through your local health department. You need a valid sellers license in order to have the proper insurance, which will protect you from potential lawsuits from customers or employees, if you have any. Many catering companies offer bartending services, which requires a separate license from that of retail food.

I recommend: Check with your local health department for the requirements for catering license. If you plan to serve alcohol as part of your catering services then you need to apply for a liquor license through the State of Michigan.

Decide what will set you apart from other Michigan caterers

Catering in Michigan includes a wide variety of themes and cuisines, including Italian catering in Michigan and barbeque catering in Michigan. As the new kid on the block, you must decide right from the start how your food catering company will stand out from the crowd. Look at the competition's menu, services they offer and additional fees. If you can't find any information on competitors online, call and request information directly. Also keep an eye out for catered events hosted by the competition. See if you can wrangle an invitation and see their work firsthand.

I recommend: Find out what the other catering companies in your area are offering, so you can plan your menu accordingly. If there are already several caterers specializing in Italian cuisine, how is your's going to be different (and better)? Find a list of caterers throughout Michigan from the Michigan Business Directory and through local chambers of commerce websites, including the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Detroit Chamber of Commerce.

Take advantage of low-interest small business loans

There are many organizations in Michigan that work with small business entrepreneurs, helping them to start their own business. A small business loan can be used to purchase equipment, buy a van for transportation and help with your marketing and advertising costs.

I recommend: The Small Business Development Center of Michigan can help you draft a business plan to take to the bank. Its counselors will also answer questions you may have about starting a business in Michigan, from what kind of licenses and permits you need to how much insurance you should carry. Once you are ready to go to the bank, the Small Business Administration of Michigan can help connect you with the right lender.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many Michigan caterers belong to the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE). NACE keeps you abreast of industry trends and news and is good way to network with other event planning professionals.