Do you have a passion for cooking and are looking for a highly rewarding job which also satisfies your creative urges? Then catering business is the right job for you. Caterers are hired to provide food, beverages and service for events ranging from an intimate dinner for two to a wedding party for hundreds or even for larger events. First step is to decide your target customer base. Consider starting on a smaller scale, for instance, catering for birthday parties, small functions such as office parties, conferences, and such events where there are fewer people in attendance. Also, think about starting the catering business from home to begin with and then rent or buy a separate location as and when you expand. Then, determine the type of cuisine or category of menu items you would like to cater. For example, if you specialize in desserts and pastries, you would like to focus on that niche. Or if you are exceptionally good at cooking Italian recipes, you may want to exclusively cater Italian food. Next, note down all your requirements for starting a business. You will need to get a license to operate your business, cooking equipments, contact information of suppliers such as green grocers, butchers, fishmongers, dairy products suppliers, etc., serving ware as well as silverware and so on. For obtaining your license, you will need to contact your local health department and submit necessary forms and applications. Find out how long it will take before you will be issued the license. You will also need a business plan that outlines your vision with regards to your business and how you are planning on making a profit. This plan is required when you approach lenders or financial institutions for loan. Contact the suppliers in your neighborhood and compare their prices. Negotiate and bargain for a cheaper rate. Most of the suppliers, especially food products suppliers, will offer a competitive price if you promise to purchase from them on a consistent basis. Additionally, you will need to figure out the delivery options and also hire servers. Start advertising your services by putting up an advertisement in your local newspaper, yellow pages, and flyers. Let your friends, family and colleagues know about your new business and offer them your services at a discount. Once you get your catering business name into the community, your best strategy for success is word of mouth publicity.