How I Turned My Love for Cooking into a Catering Business
By Ebiere Fubara
Cooking has always been more than just a chore for me; it’s a passion that runs deep in my veins, much like the rich flavors of stew rice that fill our kitchen. Growing up in Nigeria, I remember the aroma of spices wafting through our home, a comforting reminder of family gatherings and celebrations. It wasn't just about the food; it was the love, the laughter, and the stories shared over a hearty meal. Little did I know that this love would one day blossom into a catering business that would not only change my life but also connect me with people in ways I never imagined.
The Spark of Inspiration
Let me take you back to when I realized I could turn my cooking skills into something bigger. It was during a family event—a birthday party for my younger brother. I had volunteered to cook, and boy, did I go all out! From the spicy pepper soup to the sumptuous fried rice, I poured my heart into every dish.
As my family and friends savored the food, their faces lit up with joy. “This is too good, you should start a catering business!” they exclaimed. At that moment, a light bulb went off in my head. Could I really do this? It felt like a dream, but the encouragement I received ignited a fire in me. I had always enjoyed cooking, but now I saw it as more than just a hobby—I saw an opportunity.
The Reality Check
Starting a business is no bed of roses, and I quickly learned that passion alone wouldn’t be enough. I had to dive into the nitty-gritty of running a catering service. I remember sitting on my bed, scrolling through my phone, researching everything I could about the catering business. I read articles, watched videos, and even spoke to a few established caterers. It was overwhelming, but I was determined.
My first challenge was figuring out how to manage my finances. I had saved a little money from odd jobs, but it was nowhere near enough to kickstart my dream. I decided to take small steps. I started by catering for small events—birthdays, anniversaries, and even office parties. Each event was a learning experience, and I made sure to gather feedback from my clients.
The Hustle is Real
Let me tell you, the hustle was not easy. I spent countless nights experimenting with new recipes, sometimes failing miserably. One time, I tried to make a new dessert for a client, and it turned out so bad that I had to throw it away. I laughed at myself, thinking, “This is part of the journey.” Each setback taught me resilience.
I also learned to network. I would attend local events, engage with people, and hand out my business cards. The more I put myself out there, the more opportunities came my way. Social media became my best friend. I showcased my dishes on Instagram and Facebook, and slowly but surely, people began to notice.
Building a Brand
As my clientele grew, I realized I needed to establish a brand. What set me apart? What was my unique selling point? I decided to focus on traditional Nigerian dishes, but with a modern twist. I wanted to celebrate our rich culinary heritage while making it appealing to a broader audience. I crafted a brand that resonated with authenticity and creativity.
I remember the day I finally created my logo. I was ecstatic! It felt like a milestone. I even went a step further to create a website where potential clients could see my menu, prices, and testimonials. It was thrilling to see my ideas come to life.
The Joy of Catering
Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say my catering business is thriving. Each event I cater fills me with joy. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a family gathering, I pour my heart into every dish. Seeing people enjoy my food is the ultimate reward.
One of my favorite moments was when I catered for a wedding and the bride’s mother came to me with tears in her eyes, saying, “You made my daughter’s day so special.” At that moment, I realized my cooking wasn’t just about feeding people; it was about creating memorable experiences.
Facing Challenges Head-On
Of course, the journey hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. There have been challenges—like the time I had a last-minute cancellation from a client. I felt devastated, but I learned to adapt. I started offering mini-catering packages for smaller events, which opened up a new revenue stream.
I also faced competition. The catering industry is bustling, but instead of seeing others as threats, I saw them as motivation to improve. I attended workshops and cooking classes to hone my skills. Staying ahead meant embracing change and being open to new ideas.
The Local Connection
One of the most rewarding aspects of my business is the connections I’ve made within the local area. I often collaborate with local farmers and suppliers, supporting our economy while ensuring I use fresh, organic ingredients. I’ve also started offering cooking classes for young people in my neighborhood. It’s my way of giving back, teaching them the skills I’ve learned and hopefully igniting the same passion for cooking in them.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, I see endless possibilities. I dream of expanding my catering business, perhaps even opening a restaurant that showcases the beauty of Nigerian cuisine. I want to create a space where people can come together to enjoy food and culture.
If you’re reading this and contemplating starting your own business, I urge you to take that leap of faith. Trust me, the journey will be challenging, but it’ll also be incredibly rewarding. Find what you love, nurture it, and don’t be afraid to share it with the world.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!