Why Catering Is the Ultimate Summer Side Gig

I’ve worked a lot of side gigs—rideshare driving, food delivery, retail. But nothing compares to catering. If you’re looking for something part-time that actually feels worth your time, this might be it.

Full disclosure—this isn’t a year-round hustle. Here in Minnesota, catering work booms in the summer and early fall, with weekend shifts in high demand. You can work almost every Friday and Saturday if you want to. But from November through March, it slows down dramatically. Unless you’re close to full time, shifts can be hard to come by. Even regular staff often pick up seasonal work or take on second jobs in the off-season. That said, if you’re after extra income during peak season, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Here’s why catering checks every box for the perfect weekend hustle.

1. You Get Paid Well

The base pay alone is solid. Most catering companies start servers around $20 an hour. That’s more than what a lot of full-time jobs offer—and you’re just working weekends.

2. Tips Add Up Fast

Many events—especially weddings—include a gratuity for staff. Some hosts hand out cash. Some clients tip through the company. Either way, another $15 to $25 an hour in tips is totally realistic. That turns your hourly rate into something closer to $40.

3. It’s a Perfect Fit for a 9-to-5 Schedule

Most catering events happen on weekends, when people are off work and celebrating. That means your availability probably already lines up. No awkward late-night shifts when you have to wake up early the next day. No early-morning scrambles. You work when you’re free.

4. It Feels Like a Party (Because It Is)

You’re not stuck behind a counter or pushing buttons on a screen. You’re inside ballrooms, under tents, at lakeside weddings. There's music. Laughter. Dancing. It’s hard to call it “work” when the environment feels like celebration from start to finish.

5. Your Coworkers Are Actually Interesting

There’s something about catering that draws in fun, passionate, creative people. Some are actors. Some are grad students. Some have day jobs and just love the energy. You’ll find yourself having great conversations during setup or teardown—and probably make a few unexpected friends.

6. Flexibility Comes Built In

Most catering companies send out a weekly schedule, and you claim the shifts that work for you. Want to work one Saturday a month? Cool. Want to pack in every weekend? Also fine. You’re not locked into anything unless you say yes.

7. You Eat for Free—and Then Some

The food? Incredible. Once the guests are fed, staff usually get to eat too. That means plated entrees, signature appetizers, specialty desserts—all included. And more often than not, there are leftovers. You’ll head home with enough food for another full meal or two, all without spending a dime.

8. The Venues Are Unreal

One of the coolest perks? The locations. Catering can take you places most people only dream of. I’ve worked in multi-million dollar homes, on private islands, and inside museums after hours. You’ll find yourself behind the scenes at weddings, corporate events, even film shoots. No two shifts are the same.

9. It’s a Full-Body Workout

Forget sitting at a desk. You’re lifting trays, walking miles, flipping tables between ceremony and dinner. After a few weekends, you’ll feel it in your legs and arms—and that’s a good thing. It’s the kind of work that keeps you fit without trying.

Final Word

Catering isn’t just about serving food. It’s about showing up to celebrations, moving with a team, eating well, and getting paid to witness life’s best moments. If you want a side gig with big energy and big rewards, this could be your sweet spot.

Let’s talk:
Ever worked catering? Thinking about it? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear your experience.