Why I left my full-time job to launch a catering business
I loved my old job.
Unlike many others who trade in their full-time gig to work from home, because they can’t stand their job, I loved what I did, the people I worked with, and the folks I served.
But when I got a phone call from my youngest son’s school in 2023 that took my breath away, I traded in my nonprofit marketing role to start a soul food catering business and build websites.
I had no idea what kind of wild ride I was in for.
Add in homeschooling my youngest son, and, well, let’s just say life has been anything but boring. Here’s how I made the leap, and a checklist to help you do the same.
The Decision to Jump: From Nonprofit to Soul Food
I’d been working at a nonprofit for almost 10 years, helping to share the ministry’s mission, recruiting volunteers, and developing a solid online presence.
The ministry held a fun food fundraiser each year highlighting the different ethnic groups represented in the community. I always prepared soul food and the feedback was great.
Before my son’s school fiasco, I hadn’t thought about leaving my job, let alone launching a soul food catering business.
But life had other plans.
Balancing Act: Launching a Business While Working Full-Time
Quitting my job cold turkey wasn’t an option—I had bills to pay and rent that wasn’t going to cover itself. So, I kept my full-time job while I built my business on the side, turning nights and weekends into a whirlwind of recipe testing, branding, and menu planning. Here’s how I managed to juggle it all without losing my sanity.
1. Got clear on my vision
Why did I want to start this business? For me, it was about sharing my love of soul food and creating something that felt authentically mine. I wanted (and needed) flexibility in my schedule, plus I wanted to build a business where I could offer job training to my son.
2. Do Your Research
I discovered while there were quite a few soul food catering options available, none offered a soul food bar where guests could build their own dish. That became my niche.
3. Create a Business Plan
I calculated startup costs for equipment, ingredients, and marketing. I gave myself six months to get everything in place before fully committing.
4. Build Your Brand
I went with something that was a nod to both the history and the flavors of soul food.
My website became my digital storefront. I used social media in the early days to connect with potential customers but once my website started generating way more leads than social media (if you want solid leads for your business, talk to me about SEO), I deleted those accounts.
5. Test the Waters
Before diving in, I tested my catering service with friends, family, and local events. This not only helped refine my recipes but also built word-of-mouth buzz.
I asked my early customers what they liked and what could be improved. This feedback was gold. I can’t thank my first customers (including my previous employer) enough for their support.
6. Time Management Is Key
Juggling a full-time job, a side hustle, and homeschooling meant I had to be a scheduling ninja. Thank goodness for my old boss who let me work remotely half-time and in the office the other half.
Focus on what’s most important. For me, it was my son’s education and the critical business tasks that would move the needle, like marketing and client communication. I keep a running list of tasks that need attention and cross them off once completed.
7. Build a Support System
Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and can help out. My family stepped in to assist with childcare and taste-testing (a tough job, but someone had to do it).
Connect with other entrepreneurs who have been where you are. I joined a local food incubator where I not only rent kitchen time and get support to grow my business, but I connect with other food entrepreneurs too.
8. Prepare for the Unexpected
Things won’t always go according to plan. Whether it’s a last-minute catering order or a homeschooling curve ball, I had to be ready to pivot.
Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Make time for yourself so you don’t burn out. For me, that meant taking a break to enjoy a meal with my family, and reminding myself why I started this journey in the first place.
Homeschooling: The Unexpected Bonus
When I made the leap to full-time entrepreneurship, I didn’t just become my own boss—I also became my son’s teacher. Homeschooling was never part of the original plan, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Balancing business and education is a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Here’s how I make it work:
Cooking is full of lessons—math, science, even history. My son helps measure ingredients, learns about cultural traditions, and understands the business side of things by watching me work.
Homeschooling allows us to tailor the day to what works best for us. Some days are heavy on academics, others focus on life skills (like how to make the perfect cornbread or how to build a web design).
It’s not always perfect, and that’s okay. Some days the lesson plan goes out the window, and we learn by doing—whether it’s in the kitchen or out in the world.
The Big Leap: Saying Goodbye to the 9-to-5
The day I finally handed in my resignation was bittersweet. I was sad to leave a role I had loved and the people. Walking away from a steady paycheck was scary, but it was also exhilarating. It was time to sink or swim.
So, whether you’re dreaming of launching a soul food catering business, opening a boutique, or starting any other kind of venture, know that it’s possible. With the right mindset, a solid plan, and a touch of grit, you can make your dream a reality. And who knows? You might even discover some unexpected joys—like homeschooling your kid or finally mastering that secret family recipe—along the way.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some chicken to fry. Until next time!
Regina is a writer, homeschooling mom, and owner of a soul food catering business. She is the host of the Pray to Play podcast, where she shares practical tips and heartfelt advice for parents navigating the busy world of athletics. A contributor to several publications, including Tracie Miles' Living Unbroken book study, she is also an advocate for young adults with developmental disabilities and serves on the Compel Pro volunteer leadership team. Living in Ohio with her family, she designs Squarespace websites for fellow creatives and spends her free time cheering her sons from the sidelines or sipping tea while chatting with women about God’s goodness.
