Any interesting tips/suggestions for hosting a cooking party?

I recently began leading cooking parties in women's homes for groups of women. I provide all the recipes, food and instruction as well as do some serving and cleaning up. So far so good! Any ideas on how to add a different twist to these parties? What do you think is a reasonable fee to charge for these parties which run roughly 3 hours?

Any interesting tips/suggestions for hosting a cooking party?
Try having at least one cooking utensil as a gift to some lucky lady. Maybe you could just print up a recipe and give each lady one as they are seated and discreetly # it and at some time during the party ask the ladies to look at their recipe and see who has ---the chosen # and she wins a gift---a simple gift--this says thank you , i,m personable, and it gets other excited also.


When taking into consideration the cost of the supplies you have to recoup at the very least all of your expenses- but because this is a new venture pay your self what you think you are worth now (not what you could be worth if things take off)-How much an hour are you worth? Add your expenses to that figure and you have your fee.
Reply:Try making some of them themed.... like a martini night or casino night... get really into it and buy special dishes to match your theme. I would charge at least $100 per party if you are doing all the work!.. GOOD LUCK... looks like me and the person above had the same idea... who doesn't like a fun party!!!
Reply:Have everyone bring one item for the recipe and you can supply extra so that everyone can bring some of the food home
Reply:That's a business question and business is business, cooking or accounting. The cost of your food times two for your time and efforts providing the materials. Plus, a flat fee per head for your time at the actual function. You must decide what your time is worth, no one can tell you what that is. Did you go to the Sorbonne or the California Culinary Institute or did you learn on your own? I would pay $100 and up (not including the cost to me for the materials) for an evening with a European trained chef. I would not pay that much for someone who learned in their own kitchen or on the job. I would pay at least $150 for a class that included a wine lesson and a tasting. That would be a steal. and, you want to keep it accessible for most people, at least until you become a fabulous success.





Or, check out some caterer's fees, with comparable menus and then add a surcharge for your expertise.





A twist? Have a sommelier along with some wines specifically suited to the meals you are preparing, and have that professional explain in detail all the nuances and origins of the wines. And, keep it simple. You might be looking for a 'twist' because you are getting rather bored doing the same old thing but, remember, your guests are learning new things and they are not bored at all.
Reply:I would do themed parties like a luau or french influenced. The price would have to vary depending on the menu. You could do a flat rate but I don't think it would be fair to you. Sounds like fun though!