Marketing
16 min read
Beginner
Marketing on Social Media for Catering Businesses
Build a repeatable content system, a realistic weekly cadence, and capture qualified leads from every post.
Content System
Hero Dishes
• Before/after plating
• Steam close-ups
• Chef action shots
Social Proof
• Client testimonials
• Behind-the-scenes
• Venue shout-outs
Lead Magnets
• Downloadable menu
• Seasonal packages
• Limited-time offers
• Batch record 60–90 minutes twice a week; edit to 7–10 clips per session.
• Use natural light near service windows; shoot vertical 9:16 and add bold captions.
Hook, Story, Offer: A Repeatable Post Formula
Hook
• 1–2 seconds visual: steam, stretch, sizzle
• Overlay text: “Corporate lunch for 80 in 45 min”
• Pattern interrupt: fast cut or close-up
Story
• 2–5 shots: prep → plating → happy guests
• One line on sourcing or chef technique
• Venue tag for reach
Offer
• CTA: “Request a quote in 30 seconds”
• Link in bio → short form
• Limited‑time seasonal menu
Shooting Workflow
Capture
• Tripod + phone; natural light; 60–120 fps for slow‑mo
• 5 b‑rolls per dish: slice, pour, garnish, steam, bite
• Ambient audio + mic for chef lines
Edit & Publish
• Cut to 7–12s reels + 20–30s detailed versions
• Bold captions, high contrast; add venue/client tags
• Save best takes to a Highlights playlist
Platform Tips
• Reels with venue tags; carousels for menus
• Stories: polls for headcount/date to pre‑qualify
TikTok
• Trends + behind‑the‑scenes; quick chef talking heads
• Local hashtags + city/venue mentions
• Corporate case studies; delivery reliability stats
• Connect with office managers and HR
Case Examples
Reel: “100 boxed lunches in 30 minutes”
• 12s; step cuts; venue tag; 38k views; 320 profile visits
• 27 quote requests; 9 bookings (avg 65 pax)
Carousel: “Seasonal canapés menu”
• 6 slides; shot list and pricing anchors
• 2.1% link CTR; 14 qualified leads in 7 days
Turn attention into bookings
Point every post to a simple lead form and respond within 1 hour.