The restaurant industry is one of the most exciting to be a part of. You get to create exciting experiences for guests and share the food you love and are passionate about. That being said, this can also be one of the most expensive industries for young entrepreneurs to enter. Chances are, you’re going to spend a lot of money to open your restaurant before you see any profits. The more you can prepare for that reality, the better the chances that you’ll survive in the long term.

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to business planning. Take stock of your current financial picture as you try to decipher what your budget will look like to open your restaurant. Be aware of all the different prices and purchases that will have to be made and how you can keep your account going for the foreseeable future. Here are some of the responsibilities you’ll have on your finances as you look to open your own restaurant.

Figure out how you’re going to get your start-up costs.

Before you can fully budget for the different costs of a restaurant, you’ll need to know where you’re getting the startup money for your new business. This may be a scenario where you reach out to potential backers or dip into your own savings accounts. You’ll definitely want to take the time to improve your credit score and try to handle any necessary debt settlements. You don’t want debt collectors following you and pestering you for minimum payments as you’re trying to get your business off the ground. You can explore a debt resolution program that offers you flexible pricing solutions and effective debt relief from the best negotiators in the business. Lower your monthly payments or get a break on the full amount with your enrollment in these kinds of successful programs. This will help you cut your total debt down as you get ready to open your restaurant.

Invest in a great building and any repairs it may need.

One of the first expenses you’ll have for your restaurant is getting the right building and location for you. Investigate different spaces and consider the monthly payments you’ll have to make on the lease. You also may need to give the space a facelift or any renovations to create a place you’re proud of. Consider these initial costs as you start budgeting for your restaurant.

Get the restaurant equipment you require.

Next, you’ll need to fill your restaurant with the right equipment for the kitchen and the dining room. From your stove, dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, barware, dining furniture, and more, you’ll need to invest in a lot of pieces and appliances upfront. Explore options for financing for restaurant equipment to help lighten that initial load. This will allow you to pay off your equipment over time, so you can start turning a profit at your restaurant before owing an exorbitant amount. This will help you avoid crazy upfront fees while getting off on the right foot.

Hire staff at competitive rates.

The staff at your restaurant can make or break the experience for all your guests. From the chefs and cooks preparing the food to the wait staff that is taking care of your customers, you’ll need to hire a great team to start your restaurant outright. Be sure to offer good benefits and positive salaries that will draw high-quality workers to your venue.

Budget money for a grand opening.

Opening a restaurant isn’t as exciting without some kind of a grand affair. Include some money in your budget to throw a big party and get people excited about your restaurant launch. Getting the word out is essential for your early success, so be prepared to pay some money to do just that.

Frances Bopp