I have great culinary knowledge and I am going to school for food service management. I can't find a good job because I need a lot of flexibility right now while i'm in school. So I am thinking of starting my own business out of home by appointment only. This business would include me meeting with the client to show examples of food menus and meals with prices, teaching (at the client's home, in their kitchen) how to cook certain meals, possibly cooking meals for clients at their homes for small dinner parties or for their family. I already have a servesafe certificate, am a certified food handler in Los Angeles County where I will be working. What business licenses would i have to get and what else would i have to do to get this thing started?
The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.
I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.
Associations may be a good avenue to explore as well. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.
Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:
* How to Start a Home-Based Personal Chef Business by Denise Vivaldo
* Become A Personal Chef 2004: An Introduction To The Industry by Brian T. Koning
* How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, 4th by Denise Vivaldo
There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.
Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!