Chef and caterer profile on Websta in the Netherlands

What your Websta profile should contain

Your Websta profile works as your own website. Customers in the Netherlands use it to understand what you offer, see examples of your work, and contact you. Start with a clear profile photo and a short description of what you do - whether you specialise in event catering, private dinners, corporate lunches, or specific cuisines.

Add a services section that lists the types of catering you provide. Be specific: corporate events, wedding catering, intimate dinner parties, menu planning, or cooking classes. If you offer different setups - full service with staff, drop-off catering, or just food preparation - list them separately so customers understand their options.

Photos are essential. Include images of finished dishes, table setups if you provide them, and events you have catered. Dutch customers want to see the quality and style of your work before contacting you. Add 6 to 10 photos that show range and professionalism.

Include a contact form so customers can describe their event and ask questions. You can also add online booking for consultations or tasting sessions if you offer them. For catering, most customers will request quotes because each event is different, so make it easy for them to tell you what they need - guest count, type of event, dietary requirements, date and location.

Languages for your profile

Write your profile in Dutch and English. Most Dutch customers searching on Websta will use Dutch, but many international clients and expat communities in the Netherlands search in English. Having both languages means you reach a wider market. You can maintain one profile and add text in both languages to each section.

How customers in the Netherlands find you

On Websta, people search by service and location. A customer looking for a caterer in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht or anywhere in the country will filter by the catering service category. They can browse profiles near them or across the country, depending on whether they need someone local or are willing to travel.

Customers also post tasks on the Websta marketplace, describing their event and asking for offers. You can respond to these tasks with your quote and availability. This is how many catering jobs are matched - someone posts 'wedding for 80 people in June in Groningen' and caterers in the region can submit offers.

Search terms people use include the type of event (wedding catering, corporate catering), location, and sometimes dietary focus (vegan catering, Italian catering). Your profile description should mention the types of events and cuisines you work with so people can find you.

Setting up as an independent provider

In the Netherlands, if you work as a sole trader (zelfstandige), you need to register with the KvK - the Chamber of Commerce. Registration is straightforward and can be done online. You will receive a KvK number and be listed in the business register.

You must handle your own tax registration and bookkeeping. Contact the tax authority (Belastingdienst) to register for VAT (btw) if your turnover reaches the threshold, or check what applies to your situation. Keep records of income and expenses for tax purposes.

Payment processing on Websta goes through Stripe directly to your own bank account. You set your own prices and manage invoicing. Make sure you understand how Stripe works and what fees apply, so you can price your services correctly.

If you handle food preparation, check local health and safety rules with your municipal authority (gemeente). Some municipalities have specific rules about working from a home kitchen versus a commercial kitchen, depending on the type and volume of catering you do. This varies by location, so confirm what applies to you.

What to write in your first hour

Start with your profile name and photo. Use your real name or your catering business name if you have one. A clear, professional photo of yourself helps customers trust you.

Write a short introduction - two to three sentences - explaining what you do. Example: 'I offer bespoke catering for weddings, corporate events and private dinners. I work with seasonal, local ingredients and adapt menus to your preferences and dietary needs.'

List your main services. Keep it simple at first: wedding catering, event catering, menu design, or whatever fits your work. You can expand this later.

Add a basic contact message: let customers know how far you are willing to travel, whether you require a consultation before quoting, and any other key information. For example, 'I cover the Netherlands. Contact me to discuss your event and receive a custom quote.'

Add a few of your best photos if you have them ready. This immediately shows what you do.

Setting your prices

You control your own pricing on Websta. For catering, most quotes are custom because events vary in size, menu, location and service level. You might list a price per person for standard menus, or describe your typical range so customers have an idea before they contact you. Be clear about what is included - food only, service, rentals, or travel costs - so there are no surprises.

Growing your profile over time

After your first week, add more detail. Describe the cuisines you specialise in, any certifications or experience, your approach to ingredients or dietary preferences, and types of events you have handled. The more specific your profile, the better matches you will get.

Ask satisfied customers if they can share photos of events you catered. Customer photos build trust more than anything else. Update your profile regularly with new work so it stays fresh.