The nation's capitol is an ideal place to establish a company catering in Washington, D.C. Not only are their umpteen political parties, rallies, conferences and meetings that need catering, there are also private parties, including weddings, birthdays and anniversary parties that all require the services of catering companies in Washington, D.C.

To compete with other Washington, D.C. caterers you must enjoy working creatively with food, have a keen eye for detail and be highly organized. You must also enjoy working with the public. It isn't called the hospitality industry for nothing. An ideal caterer is reliable yet flexible, creative yet practical.

To launch a business catering in Washington, D.C. you'll need to:

1. Find financing for your catering services in Washington, D.C.

2. Purchase the necessary equipment to get your Washington, D.C. catering company up and running.

3. Establish a niche for your catering services in Washington, D.C.

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

Get help from local small business agencies to start your Washington, D.C. catering services company

There are plenty of business resources available for a budding food caterers. Washington, D.C. has several agencies and businesses that are in place specifically to help new companies get up and running. Sit down with a counselor and go over your business plan. They can give you information on licensing, permits, insurance and other employer obligations.

I recommend: The Washington, D.C. Small Business Development Center can help you draft and write a business plan as well as give you advice on what types of insurance, permits and other legalities you need to have in place before opening a catering business. The Small Business Administration of Washington, D.C. can help connect you with a lender as well as offers advice from other small business professionals in the area.

Outfit your Washington, D.C. catering company with the tools of the trade

The right supplies and equipment are important for any company specializing in catering. Washington DC caterers can often get started with a few nice serving platters and some disposable paper goods. However, as your business grows you will need to add more supplies, such as warmers and coolers, linen, china and flatware.

I recommend: Beltway Restaurant Equipment of Beltsville, Maryland carries everything from small wares to large commercial appliances. Save yourself gas and time and purchase catering supplies online from Ace Mart. Ace Mart carries a huge line of catering supplies, including both general and specialty catering items.

Develop a niche among other catering services in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. catering is big business. As the new caterer on the block, you are going up against businesses with name recognition and an established clientele. Do not underestimate that advantage. To compete with seasoned caterers, you need to find out as much about your competitors as possible. Once you know what they offer and at what prices, you can craft a menu that stands out from all the rest while at the same time remaining competitively priced.

I recommend: Begin your research on other Washington, D.C. catering companies with the local Washington, D.C. Chamber of Commerce, which lists area caterers. You can also join the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) to gain access to the membership directory for Washington D.C. and surrounding communities. Visit your competitors' websites to examine their menus, services and price range. You can also request this information by telephone or mail. Keep your eyes open for public catered events, such as political rallies or fundraisers, where you can see and sample your competitions' work up close and personal.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Catering companies in Washington, D.C. are held to the same health and safety standards as any restaurant. Make sure you are following safe food handling practices and carry the right licenses for serving food to the public. Otherwise you risk a potential lawsuit from customers.