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Starting a Catering Business? Buy These 5 Things First

2026-10-14 BAVA Team News

Starting a catering business is exciting — but buying equipment is where most new caterers waste money. They buy too much, too soon, and end up with a storage unit full of unused gear. Here are the 5 things you actually need before your first event.

1. 4 × Half-Size Chafing Dishes (Not Full-Size)

Most new caterers buy 10 full-size chafing dishes for big events. But your first 5 events will be small: office lunches, birthday parties, 30–50 guests. Half-size chafing dishes are more flexible: you can serve 4 different dishes, or combine two to make a full size. Start with 4 half-size, add more as you grow.

2. 2 × Portable Heat Lamps

Heat lamps are the cheapest way to upgrade your buffet. A single portable heat lamp ($50–80) keeps fries, roasted vegetables, and fried chicken crispy for 2 hours. Buy 2 on adjustable stands — you can move them between stations. This is one of the highest ROI purchases for a new caterer.

3. Insulated Food Carriers

Getting hot food to the event site is harder than keeping it hot at the venue. Buy 2 insulated food carriers (10L each). They keep food at 60°C+ for 2 hours in the car. This is non-negotiable — you cannot show up with cold food.

4. A Basic Beverage Dispenser

One 5L beverage dispenser for iced tea or lemonade. You do not need 3 matching ones. One dispenser is enough for small events. It saves you from handing out bottles and looks professional.

5. A Folding Prep Table

Most event venues have limited prep space. Buy a folding stainless steel prep table (120 cm). It folds flat, fits in your car, and gives you a clean workspace wherever you go. This is the most underrated purchase for mobile caterers.