Personal Chefs

[Kali the Foodie]

I was wondering if any personal chefs out there were willing to share their marketing secrets. I am currently a student, but plan on starting up my business as soon as possible. I am also fairly new in town and don't know a lot of people.
I was looking into taking classes with the Culinary Business Association. Has anyone been through those courses? Are they worth it?
Thanks for the help!
Kali

[Montelago]

Having done a lot of personal cheffing and catering, I can tell you that introducing yourself to the local specialty grocers, butchers, fishmongers and such is generally a good start. They see hundreds of people who are buying product, but don't necessarily know what to do with it, or don't have time. Day care centers, churches, networking at school functions are all good ways to build a clientele. Once you have a few happy customers, word of mouth will bring you a ton of business. The key being happy customers. Keep a stack of business card with you and give them to everyone you meet. Give good information on the back of the card. Really outline what you do for people and see how it turns out.

[shroomgirl]

I placed ads in a high end publication....they were in the back and only cost $15 a week.
Offer to demo at farmer's markets.