Rookie Seeks Advice

kghart · 05-05-2012, 03:55 PM

I've enjoyed reading through several of the posts in the Catering thread regarding equipment, HD regs, insurance, etc. It's given me a lot to think about and I've learned a great deal. I'd appreciate some feedback on my particular situation.

I'm drafting my business plan to start my own BBQ catering business. I don't have my own cash reserves and I don't want to acquire a ton of debt to get started. Although, I don't mind borrowing a little to get the ball rolling. I'd like to start small and build my business.

I'm considering purchasing a van that will allow me to haul my equipment as well as tow a smoker (considering a Lang 84). I'd like to find a local VFW or VFD that has an approved commissary that will rent me the space to do my prep work and cook. I'd like to start catering with occasional vending around town.

Does this sound feasible? Should I forget the van and bite the bullet and get a truck and concession trailer/mobile kitchen?

Any other advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Kevin

Bigdog · 05-05-2012, 05:38 PM

Keep it simple and use their kitchen if you can. Build your business slowly and keep your costs down. Purchase as little as possible until you need to.

Puppyboy · 05-05-2012, 11:10 PM

To vend around town, you will need to take that kitchen with you. Depending on your state regs of course.

wearcd · 05-06-2012, 04:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Puppyboy

To vend around town, you will need to take that kitchen with you. Depending on your state regs of course.

Yes, by all means check your state regs first! Here in TN you're good if you have the necessary equipment in the commissary; you don't have to take it all with you.

05-05-2012, 03:55 PM	#1
kghart Wandering around with a bag of matchlight, looking for a match. Join Date: 03-04-12 Location: Morgantown, WV Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	Rookie Seeks Advice I've enjoyed reading through several of the posts in the Catering thread regarding equipment, HD regs, insurance, etc. It's given me a lot to think about and I've learned a great deal. I'd appreciate some feedback on my particular situation. I'm drafting my business plan to start my own BBQ catering business. I don't have my own cash reserves and I don't want to acquire a ton of debt to get started. Although, I don't mind borrowing a little to get the ball rolling. I'd like to start small and build my business. I'm considering purchasing a van that will allow me to haul my equipment as well as tow a smoker (considering a Lang 84). I'd like to find a local VFW or VFD that has an approved commissary that will rent me the space to do my prep work and cook. I'd like to start catering with occasional vending around town. Does this sound feasible? Should I forget the van and bite the bullet and get a truck and concession trailer/mobile kitchen? Any other advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, Kevin __________________ Highland Hawg BBQ * New KCBS Member * New KCBS CBJ

05-05-2012, 05:38 PM	#2
Bigdog somebody shut me the fark up. Join Date: 09-17-03 Location: Wichita, Kansas Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	Keep it simple and use their kitchen if you can. Build your business slowly and keep your costs down. Purchase as little as possible until you need to. __________________ Bigdog Weber Platinum Kettle, Weber OTS, Meco square grill, ECB, a WSM, a cool fold up camping grill, a Blackstone flat top camping stove, The MOAB, and now the proud owner of a YS640, MOINK. Smoke on Brother KC Father of the Fatty (the name) 4/20/04 on the BBQ Brethren with inspiration from Brother parrothead.

05-05-2012, 11:10 PM	#3
Puppyboy Babbling Farker Join Date: 07-07-06 Location: Osage City, Kansas Downloads: 0 Uploads: 0	To vend around town, you will need to take that kitchen with you. Depending on your state regs of course. __________________ -Captain of Barkin Dawgs BBQ -KCBS Judge #21924 -36" Kingfisher Combo -New Braunfels Bandera (rescued) -Weber 22.5" Kettle (rescued) -A homemade trailer cooker -Concession trailer nicknamed "The Dawg House" http://www.facebook.com/BarkinDawgsBBQCatering