Everyone is in need of a good caterer at some point for a wedding, an anniversary party, or a romantic dinner for two. Use your special culinary talents to create wonderful meals that make people want to come back for more. You may want to take a course at a culinary school (or you may have graduated from a culinary school.) to brush up on your talents and help you pay close attention to detail. Kick-off your business with an open house, inviting local business people who could refer you to their clients. Encourage satisfied clients to tell their friends.

Tips

• Advertise your business at a bridal show and in the yellow pages
• Establish a working relationship with restaurants, community centers, clubs, and organizations.

If you're ready to start cooking, here are the steps to starting your home-based catering business. Decide what type of catering you want to do. Contact your state occupational licensing or health department to learn what permits you need and any laws you need to abide by. Set up your business structure.