Start a full-service wedding buffet catering business

Engaged couples and their families, sometimes with help from wedding planners or venue managers who recommend caterers.

A price per guest for the menu, plus charges for staff, rentals such as chafing dishes and linens, delivery and service. Couples usually pay a deposit at booking and the balance before the event.

• Cooking for large groups
• Menu costing and planning
• Managing helpers on the day
• Calm, friendly customer service

• Health department permit and food safety rules for catering, which differ by state and county. Home kitchens are generally not allowed for this, so check before you prep anywhere.
• General liability insurance, and often a certificate of insurance required by venues
• Check whether your state requires a food handler or food protection manager certificate
• Workers' compensation insurance once you hire servers or kitchen helpers
• Keeping food at safe temperatures during transport and service
• Weddings are seasonal and booked far ahead, so income can be uneven

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on equipment, kitchen access, insurance and menu size. Prepping in a licensed shared or commissary kitchen is part of the plan.

Check health department permit and food safety rules for catering, which differ by state and county. Home kitchens are generally not allowed, so confirm before prepping anywhere. Also check insurance, food handler or manager certificates, and workers' compensation if you hire.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many weddings you book and guest counts. Weddings are seasonal and booked far ahead, so income can be uneven through the year.