How to Estimate a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

Set a fundraising goal. Whether the event is for charity or to raise money for new team uniforms, you need to have an idea of your fundraising objective. Set a realistic, achievable goal. Make sure that the goal is flexible because you might have to amend the number once you figure out how much supplies cost.
Select a venue. To maximize profits, try to pick a place that is free of charge. Check with your local church or school to see if you can use a spare room or cafeteria. If it's a small fundraiser, you can possibly use someone's house. For venues that charge, ask when payment is due. If you have to put down a nonrefundable deposit to secure the space, you must be comfortable taking a financial risk in the event you do not sell enough tickets.
Estimate attendance. Once your venue is chosen, you will have a clearer picture of how many tickets you can sell. Figure out how many people can comfortably sit and eat in the space. Do not plan on overbooking to make extra money.
Price supplies. For the menu, plan on serving a simple salad, garlic bread and spaghetti with or without meat. For the pasta, plan on the typical serving of 4 oz. per person, or 1 lb. per four people. One jar of sauce is generally needed for every pound of pasta. Plan on 1 cup of salad and two slices of bread per person. For drinks, you can serve water, iced tea or soda. To be safe, plan on everyone drinking at least two servings, or 16 oz.
Calculate cost. Once you have priced how much it will cost to feed your estimated number of guests, add any applicable venue fees. Add this total cost to your fundraising goal and then divide by the number of guests. This will be your ticket price. If the ticket price seems unreasonably high, then you can buy cheaper brands of food, select another venue or amend your goal.
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How to Start a Gourmet Dinner Party Catering Service

Create a business plan. Business plans serve as a road map for your endeavor. Include in your business plan an overview of your company, profit expectations, and marketing plans. The U.S. Small Business Administration is an excellent resource for developing a complete and accurate business plan.
Consider your credentials. Although it's not necessary to have a degree in a food- or pastry-related field, it's important to understand proper food storage, preparation, and handling procedures. Consider taking classes from a local community college or cooking school to fill the gaps in your knowledge.
Register your business. You must register your business name with your state's Secretary of State office. The Internal Revenue Service can give you an Employer Identification Number for tax purposes. Check with your local health department for proper licensing requirements. Although catering services can be operated out of your home, you are responsible for producing food in a safe environment.
Purchase all necessary equipment. If you're operating out of your home, you may only need to buy a delivery van or extra storage space. If you're working out of a commercial location, you may need to buy ovens, pans, and other cooking utensils. Gourmet catering services also need to consider purchasing or renting linens and decor items.
Market your gourmet dinner party catering service. Network with florists, bakeries, and party-rental businesses by giving them a sample menu and maybe even some bite-sized treats to pique interest. Tell your family and friends about your new venture and consider hosting a gourmet dinner party once a month to help get the word out and bring in new clients.
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