Delicious party trays begin with high-quality ingredients.
Party trays are snack trays served at events such as receptions, art gallery openings, and business meetings, where attendees are not expecting a full meal. These trays may consist of lunch meats and cheeses, chocolates and candies, or sandwiches and other finger food. Starting a party tray business may seem like a good idea for people who love good food but not cooking. Technically, this would be a catering business and you'll need to find a commercial kitchen to partner up with.
Instructions
1. Write a business plan for your party tray company before you invest any money. Decide what type of trays you'll be making, whether you'll be cooking or assembling sandwiches or just laying out cheeses. Think about what kinds of customers you'll try to attract. You may want to specialize in corporate functions, for example. Calculate your cost for each tray of food, and the selling price you must set to make a reasonable profit.
2. Visit commercial kitchens - either restaurants or other facilities that rent to caterers - and find a suitable location. Since you're handling food, you need to work in a commercial kitchen. You can't assemble your party trays at home. You may find a restaurant that is willing to lease you space in their kitchen during off hours, or you may need to join a commercial kitchen that leases space to other caterers.
3. Choose a name for your business and buy the domain so you can eventually make your own website. Choose something that is short, easy to spell and memorable so that your customers will have an easy time finding you.
4. Visit your local county clerk and apply for a business license and operations permit. You can't open a business bank account or hire employees without these things. You can apply for both on the same day, and you'll probably have to fill out applications and pay fees.
5. Visit the IRS's website and apply for a taxpayer identification number. You'll need this number to open your business bank account, pay taxes and buy supplies from vendors at wholesale prices. You can get the number immediately on the IRS website.
6. Interview vendors and sample products. You'll need to find suppliers for all of the food on your party trays, as well as trays and packaging. You need to find the best quality food available at the lowest prices in order to make money. You might be able to negotiate the best deals for yourself if you are willing to buy in bulk.
7. Hire a professional to design your website. Your website will be your best advertisement, and you want it to make your company look established and legitimate. You can even create a site that allows customers to place orders and pay online.
8. Create business cards and brochures to hand out to potential customers. You'll want to distribute these materials to anyone you think might lead business to you, so hand them out to local offices and hotels.
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