How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, 5th (Home-Based Business Series) Paperback – Bargain Price, December 1, 2005

This book, contrary to popular opinion, in my opinion is just ok. Very basic information on each chapter without expanding in any detail on the intricacies of this particular business.The marketing chapter in particular which was the main reson for me buying the book gave me a couple of ideas but overall didn't read any different than any small buisiness marketing guide. Dated information written in a fairly bland language without any hint of enthousiasm.I suppose that if you are on a budget with no experience at all, this is an ok referece source but you will want to upgrade to something more comprehensive and in depth such as the professional caterers handbook by Laura Arduser and Robert BrownThe most unfortunate thing about this book is it's author. Following my above review I received the following email from the author who obviously has a much higher opinion of her work than I do. Personally I found her message to be quite sarcastic, as I have not indicated that I have personally published anything. :Dear Cosmos,I just read your review of my catering book on Amazon. You are right, your review was out of the norm.I've sold 140,000 copies and recieve emails daily from around the country, from students, schools, professionals etc. thanking me.If, you'd like a complimentary copy of the new 5th edition, and try to read it again, I'd be happy to sendyou one in the fall. Much new information in the marketing chapter.Please make sure to send me information on any of the books you've published,I 'd love to read what you know, I'm sure if would fill volumes.Denise Vivaldo

How To Start A Home Based Catering Business by Denise Vivaldo contains both some information form the author’s background in her journey towards opening her own catering business as well as advice and tips. For instance, Vivaldo shares opportunities for food catering (such as hotels, country clubs, yachts, restaurants, charter yachts, airlines etc).. She also shared some of the lessons she learned from her first catering experience- apparently one of her waitresses left with one of the most attractive male guests, she unexpectedly spent more than she initially collected, and had to at first do the dishes alone. She also touches on territory on areas such as Sales and Marketing when it comes to operating a catering business (starts on page 109). She also gives some food recipes such as Lemony Rice Pilaf (page 204) and Chocolate Walnut Biscotti (page 205).

this book tells you most everything you'll need to know in plain simple english. It's a good read too, I couldn't put it down. I read the whole book in 2 days, and I still go back to reference it. Great to have by your side if your just starting out, and even gives great ideas and tips that even pros could use. It came in perfect condition and I got it pretty quickly. Made me excited to try more books on the subject.

Good, solid information but seriously outdated, especially the chapters concerning publicity and networking. When this book was written, they never heard of the internet and social media, apparently. Also, it is titled "How to Start a Home Catering Business" but it really focuses on large volume and not at all on the Home aspect. Disappointed in both regards.

This book is a must read for anyone contemplating opening a home based business. It is very well written with suggestions and references. I enjoy it so much, I plan to purchase additional copies for others I know who are seeking to become entrepreneurs. I must keep my copy, which I purchased used but is in excellent condition, for myself.

I have skimmed through most the book and have read probably a third of it in depth so far, and am very impressed by how much the author has taught me already. I am in my third year of culinary school at the moment and would like to open a catering business after graduation. This book will definitely be a huge help.

I have enjoyed reading this book. She offers some great advice for a catering startup. As a side note she is not telling you to cater out of your home kitchen as some other comments say, rather she is telling you to use your home as your office/base.

THIS WAS A GREAT MOVIE I JUST WISHED IT WAS LONGER, I AM PLEASED WITH THE SERVICE AND PRODUCT. THANKS

was a pressie and she loved it

spot on.