Caterers

Employers

Most caterers own their own businesses and are, therefore, self-employed. Caterers, however, do have many different types of clients. Individuals may need catering services for a party or special family celebration. Industrial clients, such as company cafeterias, airlines, country clubs, schools, banquet halls, cruise ships, and hotels, may require catering services on a large scale or at regular intervals.

Starting Out

Most caterers begin their careers after graduating from college with a degree in a program such as family and consumer science or finishing a culinary training program at a vocational school or community college.

Qualified individuals can begin working as a manager for a large catering firm or as a manager for a hotel or country club or banquet service. Those most likely to start a catering business will have extensive experience and sufficient finances to purchase equipment and cover other start-up costs. Developing skills to market one's catering business will be critical to success.