Live panipuri station for parties and events

Hosts of weddings, Diwali and Holi parties, birthdays, community groups and companies running staff events.

A per-guest price or a flat fee for a set number of guests, often with a minimum order. Repeat bookings and word of mouth do most of the selling.

• Batch prep and planning quantities
• Safe food handling and transport
• Friendly hosting in front of guests
• Quoting and booking

• Catering permit or food premises licence requirements, which vary by province and municipality
• Prepping in an approved kitchen, as home kitchens are often not allowed for sale to the public
• Food handler certification where required
• Commercial general liability insurance, which venues often ask for
• Keeping chilled items cold during transport and service, especially in summer heat
• Deposits and cancellation terms in writing, to protect against last-minute changes
• Busy seasons around weddings and festivals, with quieter winter months

As an estimate, startup typically costs around $4,000 to $15,000, depending on your equipment, kitchen access and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you book.

Check catering permit or food premises licence requirements, which vary by province and municipality. Also check that you prep in an approved kitchen, since home kitchens are often not allowed for sale to the public, and whether food handler certification is required.

The estimate is at least about 6 hours a week to start, depending on how many events you take on. Busy seasons around weddings and festivals can mean more work, while winter months are often quieter.