How to price your services as a freelance chef

[@ChefEvelyn]

If you want to learn how to market your chef business on social media: www.TheChefSocial.com Chef Social is a Social Media Marketing Guide specifically for Caterers, Personal Chefs, Meal Prep & Dinner Party Chefs. If you are exhausted from attracting cheap, low budget clients, If you are done with overworking, If you are ready to attract clients that pay easily and have the budget that matches their taste and If you are tired of clients ghosting you once they see your invoice. It’s time to create a High-End Culinary Brand. To learn how to transition your Chef Business into a High-End Culinary Brand visit: www.HighEndCulinaryBrand.com

[@rick89y]

This is badass, fuck yeah girl, thank you for reminding me that what i'm providing is special. I stumbled upon this as I was stressing out over a catering event and I felt the stress lower as I realized just how true your words were. This is crazy how it all comes down to valuing yourself. chefs kiss to this video.

[@ChefEvelyn]

Glad you found it helpful and hopefully your catering gig went well!

[@MsTeapot11]

I graduated from culinary school 8 years ago, but only worked in the industry for a couple of years. I have contemplated becoming a personal chef, but the freelance approach makes sense. I feel ready now to start.

[@candaceharmon2919]

So glad i found this information! I graduated in 2009 from culinary school, been in the industry since I was 15, and everyone tells me i need to start my private chef business.. i finally decided to take that leap! Thank you!!!!

[@ChefEvelyn]

Awesome! I'm excited for you 🙂

[@ezral_00]

Good info

[@MsBNYC1986]

This was great. I needed to see this since I want to become a private chef. I have a deep passion for cooking but was too scare to price my food and desserts. People will ask for discounts and then catch attitudes when I give them my pricing. I'm worth it and so is my food. I'm really good at what I do. So I decided to want to own my own catering service. Thank you for your videos. I just subscribed to your channel so I can learn more.

[@ChefEvelyn]

I'm so glad that you found the video helpful. I have an entire playlist full of videos just like this, if you want to take a watch through. Several years of videos in fact! 👍🏿😊

[@NickBrunet]

I’m currently starting my own business! I plan to start with my own friends and family and then get word of mouth.

[@janniehigh649]

Thanks for the info. I watched this video three times because I didn’t want to miss a ounce of info. I’m happy I found your channel! I’ve been in the culinary industry for 8 years and the kitchen isn’t where I want to be. But cooking is my life. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@ChefEvelyn]

Girl I felt the same way. I didn't want to be in the kitchen, but I still wanted to be a chef. You should check out my latest video about the beta test course that I am doing. I think it might be beneficial to you.

[@wendepatrella2018]

I feel you!!!!

[@wendepatrella2018]

@@ChefEvelyn us black women can't make a living let alone MOVE UP In the culinary industry.... Trust me, I've been In this field going on 10 years and I can't even move past being a "lead" barely making a living wage...sad. When I used to be a personal chef, I made more with 2 clients than what I make now..

[@wendepatrella2018]

Thankfully, I'm in school to become a dietary manager, food service director and dietitian, so I know things will work out In my favor when I get my credentials and experience together, while restarting up my business in the meantime! 🙌

[@estealitta]

Wonderful content! I am contemplating on becoming a personal chef. Your advice couldn't of come at a better time for me. Thank you so much Chef!

[@deescookery2023]

This is super resourceful. As someone who’s getting ready to work for myself. I’ve always been curious about “Pricing” Thank You!

[@teonnaussery-brooks2940]

Thank you for this video. I needed to hear this. I just decided to not sell cakes and cupcakes to individual clients. I realized events and corporate events make more money.

[@sandstew2697]

This video was amazing...I am interested in meal prep for families with direct delivery and I am looking at packages, organic. I am encouraged to make this happen in 2019

[@jackscott8371]

Sand Stew hey I’m looking to do the same thing in the uk, direct home delivery,what did you find good for pricing your service at?

[@rochelledacosta7000]

Wow! thank you for this video chef. That was my problem. Great show. All the way from Portugal

[@alisonchandler6949]

You are AMAZING! What you do is exactly what I am looking to do! Your passion and drive, experience and value are priceless! Thank you for being a resource and inspiration to me!

[@EverydayGworl]

4:32-4:38 PREACHING‼️

[@Maciahgrace]

Great video thanks Evelyn😊

[@Zoerapss]

OMG I work at Central Market in the cooking school as a culinary instructor!!! In Houston

[@Dragonheartmomma]

This is really helpful. Thank you!

[@CafeBagheri]

This is awesome! Thank you chef.

[@myopinion2559]

Well said!! I’m an experienced Chef 👩‍🍳

[@mariamjjackson9297]

I just got back in the game, and this was amazingly helpful! Thank you! I definitely subscribed to your channel....

[@ChefEvelyn]

Yay! I'm so glad you found it useful.

[@ladybyrd6297]

Chef I'm doing a simple catering service for a party of 35. It's very simple menu fried wings oven baked jerk wings and a salad. I need to find out if it'll be more cost efficient to purchase wingettes but I need 2 compare shop for the whole wings and wingettes🤔 I don't know how to determine the price of what to charge and I don't want to overcharge or under charge for my service 🤔 help

[@fayegarrett3078]

Thank subscribing, following, and buying my kit today

[@jazblair81]

Loving your videos!! Glad I found your channel

[@mikewilson9236]

14:30 generally its best to say " this is generally a provided premium chef experience but were doing it for an adjusted Rate to create the relationship"

[@Tiviab]

Hi Chef! I just came across your videos/channel. I have been looking for someone to assist me in branding my business. You have inspired me to push myself even harder. I know you said in the end you would assist fellow chefs w/branding. Please share your info and where I can contact you. Thanks

[@ChefEvelyn]

Hi Danyell. If you go to ChefEvelyn.com/contact and send me an email about what sort of assistance you are in need of, we can go from there! Hope to hear from you soon.

[@tinasoulfooddmv8977]

Thank you so much i will be following you I needed this Soo much some ppl don't want to give you advice I needed this .

[@buildingfoundationspodcast3213]

Thank you chef! Subscribed and following

[@ChefNat76]

this is good..you've helped me soo much.

[@iamchefnoel]

Great info chef

[@yvonnewilliams8604]

Thank you for the eye-opening word.

[@ChefEvelyn]

my pleasure!

[@mrs.b6793]

Really helpful! New subbie here 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@jeancarloperez7729]

You are the best out there in the KZbin world thank you so much!!

[@ChefEvelyn]

So glad you are enjoying the videos!

[@witdagreeneyz]

Oh my goodness!!! This message was right on time!!! Thank you 🙏🏽

[@ChefEvelyn]

my pleasure :-)

[@walterduran7587]

Very helpful Evelyn, thank you!!

[@hzlkelly]

It's a LUXURY experience y'all.

[@danielgaspar6026]

I absolutely love this piece of advice! Thank you chef!

[@loretha4056]

Do you have a formula that use when setting your price

[@vaninha619]

You are amazing!!! Thank you for doing what you do!

[@amandaslifeandrecipes4209]

Super Helpful! Thank you!

[@ChefEvelyn]

My pleasure. So glad you found it helpful.

[@momswhocamp8178]

👏👏 thank you so much!!! Awesome video

[@talghow-i2326]

I respect your creativity intelligence... and you ...simply wonderful mindset😎😳😊😎!

[@AgustaLCSW60]

How do you make your own contract that has the pricing? I didn't see the link.

[@anjelvs8339]

Thank you for this video. I have been under charging for so long. I even stop cooking as personal chef because I dd not know and understand how to price for this business. I still learning this whole process.of running a business. Can you please send the link for chef starter kit.

[@ChefEvelyn]

Hey Angelique! My apologies for not getting back to your comment sooner. I'm not sure if you have already found the link to the starter kit, but you can get it here: bit.ly/chefstarterkit

[@jamesbates5552]

Thank you chef ❗️

[@ginielover1]

This is awesome 👏. Thank you

[@miriamwahujones5492]

Amazing tips.Thank you so much Chef for this video.As a newbie, i am benefiting a lot from your advice.

[@janicej9589]

Very valuable information. Thank you!

[@ChefEvelyn]

You're welcome. I'm glad that you enjoy the video.

[@loretha4056]

Yes

[@mikewilson9236]

14:47 violation " charge" word is improper she should say " the service and experience is delivered, it makes the bill"

[@princess7469]

Hi Chef Evelyn! Cooking and Baking are one of my passions and in my own kitchen since 1980s _ through the years til now, I've prepared meals and desserts for an apartment building tenants. I'm looking forward to preparing meals for families getting paid straight up cash only. I'm asking if you know a website I can pull up looking for families who are looking for people like me? Thank You

[@ChefJsPlate]

Thank you for this gurl

[@FinalCupEnt]

Your so amazing. Thank you!

[@ChefEvelyn]

Glad you are enjoying the videos!

[@chefantoniowooten6779]

Good stuff are you still Active real talk gave me life

[@ChefEvelyn]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. still active in what capacity?

[@chefantoniowooten6779]

@@ChefEvelyn Just wio some mentorship

[@ChefEvelyn]

@@chefantoniowooten6779 yes i am

[@vanassamelendrez2858]

You're awesome

[@CherylYHowardGetYourLifeBack]

Hi, I'm new to this industry. I'm getting my feet wet by starting a private or chef or cook for hire. I'm not culinary trained but I have always cooked for friends and family and coworkers who love my food. Since I have a love for cooking for people and making them laugh, and need another steam of income, I decided to give it a try by completing required certification before completing registering a legal entity. I'm currently trying to decide what to charge to cook a small Thanksgiving dinner (2-4). I'm a 1yr new resident in Georgia. What I plan to make for this meal costs $75-$85 to purchase ingredients. I thought of $250-$300?

[@ChefEvelyn]

Hi Cheryl! Nice to virtually meet you. Regarding pricing, there is so much more to factor in besides food costs. It's challenging for me to just throw a number out there without knowing more about your business. Plus very similar to a doctor or a mechanic, it would be (business) malpractice for me to give advice (prescription/diagnostic) without knowing the more intimate details of your business. I hope all went well for thanksgiving! Welcome to the channel!

[@CherylYHowardGetYourLifeBack]

@@ChefEvelyn Hi, yes, I appreciate that. Oh absolutely! I didn't expect you to give me a price to charge. I was just sharing my efforts as I continue to research and eventually find a mentor who doesn't want to charge me $5,000-$10,000 just to answer 2 of my questions that I can find on the internet quickly LOL. Chile, that's another hustle out here in these internet streets. Thank you again. I love how you are helping others professionally start and grow their businesses.

[@lloydbingham3231]

How much is the cost of a luxury experience for each person?

[@MsTeapot11]

Are you still doing the freelance chefs starter kit?

[@ChefEvelyn]

Yes, you can find it here: bit.ly/chefstarterkit

[@williemosley375]

How can I contact you ?

[@victoria243]

Thank you so much for such a valuable content and videos. Very inspiring! I have a question though... what if there is chefs who are pricing themselves lower and ready to work for much lower profit, how do you position yourself as more valuable option than them( assuming they are still excellent chefs and all that)? Thank you!

[@ChefEvelyn]

Focus on creating a more unique and engaging experience. Trust you won't be marketing to the same clientele.

[@victoria243]

@@ChefEvelyn Thank you for answer, Evelyn

[@dylannotsor6955]

I work at a private detox facility for people with substance abuse disorder, I make a menu tailored to specific needs and work in a home style kitchen. I did not go to culinary school, trained in restaurants until I was a sous chef and now do this job. How can I use this to my advantage to be a private chef for private clients?

[@ChefEvelyn]

You can do a lot with that experience!

[@witdagreeneyz]

Question: Does all of this apply when you have not finished culinary art school? And do you feel that going to culinary school is absolutely necessary for this business?

[@ChefEvelyn]

Culinary school really depends on what you want to do afterwards. There are a ton of really successful chefs who didn't go and a ton who did.

[@joycelynwashington2187]

Great question!!!

[@msal3515]

I graduated in 2014 from Culinary School. I learned some things concerning pricing in school but not enough. I have no idea how to price things. I am doing catering for a school lunch program and don’t know how to go about changing to make a profit. It’s for 95 kids. Please help

[@elijahsmama8298]

Did you get any help?

[@mikewilson9236]

14:54 oh my god lady " its alll negotiable and you know it "

[@mikewilson9236]

13:53 you never verbalize " my price" or " i charge " to clients always Experience rate or Market rate or complete sitting fee but never say i charge or my price or my rate its to individual

[@ygmistique8155]

I like your wording. What business do you do?

[@mikewilson9236]

@@ygmistique8155 im a political consultant

[@tawnyadavis1]

how do i get a copy of your kit

[@ChefEvelyn]

you can get a copy here:chefevelyn.gumroad.com/l/chefkit I hope you enjoy it!

[@sking3225]

Hi, I found your video because I am on the “client” side of the plate 🤓! Because of the pandemic we will not be traveling for our annual wedding anniversary trip. Hubby and I thought it would be a nice luxury (and first time) experience to have a dinner for two catered or have a chef in home to cook. I’m in the research phase now because I do not know where to begin (how to look for chefs in my area) or even how much it would cost. Question for you, you said you no longer do dinner for twos, but if you did, how much would you charge today? I am one that recognizes that this is a luxury experience, and that the price would reflect that, I just don’t even know a ballpark figure. Can you also offer a suggestion on how to look for a chef via the internet? I am in the DMV area. Thanks!!

[@ChefEvelyn]

The way I like to look at it, is about proximity and customization. For example you might spend $7-$10 a person a chick fil a. Limited menu. Fast food quality, drive through experience etc. Cheesecake factory would be $25-35 per person. Mass produced etc. A local Chef owned restaurant, may $50-80 a person, specialty menu, pretty good ingredients, you go to them. a 5 star restaurant in your town might run you $125-$160 a person. But if you want someone to come to your home, you get to select the menu and potentially customized it, you get to dine in privacy, drink as much as you want (since you don't have to drive), the chef is exclusive to you for the evening, and can't take on any other clients or customers while they are servicing you, ball park, I'm thinking about $450-$500 minimum for the evening.Not including travel or other expenses. Because for the chef, what may seem like only 3-5 hours at your home, Its about 2-3 days worth of work plus ingredients and maybe even a team member. I know a fantastic chef, that I can connect you to in the DMV area who may be willing to do your anniversary. If you are interested, please send me an email at ChefEvelyn.com/contact and I will connect you. And happy early anniversary. :-)

[@sking3225]

Chef Evelyn thank you so much for this detailed information and insight. This is very helpful to me and likely others that may have the same idea. Yes, I would love the person’s name. I will email you now!

[@rennie85]

@@ChefEvelyn Thank you for that information. I know that this is a 3 month feed but I have a similar situation. I am the one cooking though and just starting out. But I have a question.I will start with a little background So for years I have been cooking for people and churches. Many people have taken advantage of my cooking abilities. So I have either given them food for free in the cause for ( charity) or paid so cheaply that I was being paud less than a 1$ an hour. I am tired of people using me. But I still want to help others in times of needs. Anyway, my question is this. A couple has hired me to cook them Chateaubriand with sides and a dessert. They want enough for lefovers. So they asked me to cook for a serving of 6. I have no idea how much I should charge them?. Also dont want to charge them and unreasonable price. So can you please help me with pricing? Thank you in advance

[@jenniferwilliams6622]

I'm catering a wedding of a party between 150-200 people. How much should I charge. I was thinking $10,000.

[@ChefEvelyn]

depends on the menu. It also depends on the service style. It also depends on the time of day, and where you have positioned your brand at. Of course you need to consider food cost, materials and labor. It also depends on your business goals. Run the numbers and THEN price it, not the other way around.

[@marcecoral7996]

I agree 💯

[@njghtcfawl3r]

Glad I found this vid thank you I’m starting out myself and pricing is tricky I legit came here looking for ideas thx for the permission lol I knew I just needed that confirmation bless

[@ChefEvelyn]

my pleasure!

[@michaelmitchell482]

Thank you chef Evelyn you gave great insight on pricing that will help me.

[@bicsbees1094]

2 people 500.00 plus food

[@perryshaw2916]

Are you still in business this post is from 2yrs ago. I am starting ny private chef business and I would love your help.

[@ChefEvelyn]

Yes I am!

[@williammwangi4955]

thanks we chefs need to be priced......and speak in one accord

[@ChefEvelyn]

absolutely William! Glad you agree.

[@mayberrysranch5156]

I'm gaining a plethora of information from you. My woman says I should cook. People say I should open a spot but I don't want to spend the majority of my time in the kitchen.

[@ChefEvelyn]

I didn't want to spend all my time in the kitchen either. this is why I teach chefs other ways to monetize their skills.

[@marinasoto5015]

Don’t take it the wrong way, please, but “I love you”

[@ChefEvelyn]

LOL! thanks!

[@mikewilson9236]

13:30 but u only got that contract once every 10 yrs Corporate events are never exclusive yout supposed to keep the moves mixed bag

[@EXO28RESEARCHGROup]

♨♨♨♨♨Thank u

[@yolandapotts]

I want to learn recipes for 50 or more people

[@danielpascoa7203]

With nothing but love and respect for a fellow Chef. However, please stop saying “Right”! Your giving good advice to these young men and women. But it’s competing against it you’re people staying focused. Lol 😂

[@iamchefnoel]

Right lol

[@Glitzbeecreations]

Thank you so much for this. What's your Instagram handle ma'am?

[@ChefEvelyn]

I'm so glad you are enjoying the videos and my Instagram handle is @ChefEvelyn