Personal Chefs

Employers

Approximately 10,000 personal chefs work in the United States, according to the American Personal and Private Chef Association. Nearly all personal chef services are owned and operated by individuals, though some well-established chefs serving a largely populated, affluent area may hire assistants. Aspiring personal chefs who live in one of these areas and have some cooking experience and education may be able to hire on as a cook with a big personal chef operation. But most personal chefs will be in business for themselves and will promote their services in areas near their home.

The majority of people who use the services of personal chefs are working couples between the ages of 35 and 55 who have household incomes over $50,000. Most of these couples have children. Personal chefs also work for people with disabilities and senior citizens.

Starting Out

The career of personal chef is really for those who have tried other careers and have some experience in the food and service industry. Personal chef courses offered by United States Personal Chef Association and accredited community colleges may eventually attract people with little cooking experience into the business. For now, though, a personal chef course and seminar isn't really enough to get you started unless you also have a culinary education, or a great deal of knowledge about cooking.

If you feel confident that you have the cooking knowledge necessary to prepare good-tasting, well-balanced meals for paying customers, then you should consider training through either the United States Personal Chef Association or the American Personal & Private Chef Association. Once you have a good sense of the requirements and demands of the job, you can start seeking out clients. Because you'll be cooking with the stoves and appliances of your clients, you don't need to invest much money into starting up your business. An initial investment of about $1,000 will buy you some quality cookware and utensils. But you'll also need a reliable vehicle, as you'll be driving to the grocery store and to the homes of your clients every day.

Volunteer your services for a week or two to friends and neighbors who you think might be interested in hiring you. Print up some fliers and cards, and post your name on community bulletin boards. You may have to offer a low, introductory price to entice clients to try your services.