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Hi everybody! My name is Nicole Duves. I am 34(divorced with no kids) and I would like to move to St Thomas or St John. I own a very small(but growing) catering business here in DC, we have catered mostly to parties, and a few small weddings.
I have visited St Thomas on a cruise. I know that is not enough and I will probably come down for a two week visit before I move. The reason I say that I would also think of moving to St John, is because of all the things I have read about St John (relaxed, low crime, etc.). I would be up for either island depending on which would be best for my business.
Speaking of my business, when I first started up the catering business in DC, all I had to do was advertise, get a permit from the city,and cooking equitement. It did not cost a lot of money. Would I have to do anything differently in the virgin islands?
Also...do the hotels have the catering business for tourist weddings and parties covered or is their a need? Is their a large local market?
I know I am jumping ahead of myself, but I have already started searching for apartements for rent. What would a good price be for a one bedroom apartement in a safe area on either island?
I know this is a lot but it would be appreciated if all of the questions are answered. I am really looking foward to starting over in the lovely virgin islands...
Posted : March 21, 2005 4:12 am
As a newcomer to whichever island you choose, you may find that the catering business is very much a "who you know" business. Competing against all of the other 'established' caterers could be a daunting task. Remember, STT has around 55K people...STJ only around 3K. Quite unlike DC, where you have enough people to keep many caterers in business.
One bed = $1,000
Posted : March 21, 2005 1:45 pm
Hello Nicole,
My thoughts on your career: you will find that most catering is from established restaurants (local and tourist). I don't know about starting your own business as far as paperwork, sorry. I would imagine that your best bet would be to get a job working for a restaurant until you get a feel for where your business could fit in - so to speak.
Good luck and we look forward to hearing more about your move. When are you thinking of moving?
Teresa
Posted : March 22, 2005 1:34 am