How do I get my ads live?

How Do I Get My Ads Live?

The Ads feature in CaterCloud helps catering businesses attract new clients by running targeted campaigns on platforms like Google and Meta. This article explains what needs to happen before your ads can go live and what your experience will look like depending on how your account is set up.

Before Your Ads Can Launch

Regardless of how your account is configured, ads only become available once your CaterCloud site is published and revealed. If your site is still in draft or unpublished, the Ads section will remain locked. Publish your site first, then return to set up your campaigns.

Option 1: Self-Serve Ads (Google/Meta Connected)

If self-serve ads are enabled on your account, you'll manage your campaigns directly from the Ads section of your dashboard.

• Connect your existing Google or Meta ad account using the OAuth prompts provided
• Once connected, CaterCloud's AI will draft a campaign based on your business details
• Review the suggested campaign — including copy, targeting, and budget — before anything goes live
• You must approve the budget yourself before any spend occurs — CaterCloud never charges your ad account without your confirmation
• Once approved, your campaign launches directly through your connected account

Nothing spends until you say so. You stay in full control.

Option 2: Team-Launched Ads (Fallback Mode)

If self-serve ads are not enabled on your deploy, the Ads section will show a managed setup experience instead. In this mode:

• The CaterCloud team handles campaign creation and launch on your behalf
• Ads go live after your site is published — the team takes it from there
• You don't need to connect an external ad account

If you're unsure which mode applies to you, check the Ads section after publishing your site — the interface will make it clear what steps are available.

Quick Checks If Ads Aren't Available Yet

• Confirm your site has been published and revealed — this is required in both modes
• Make sure you're looking in the correct Ads section of your dashboard
• Contact support if the section appears locked after publishing

> Tip: Once your ads are running, use CaterCloud's booking and inquiry tracking to see which campaigns are driving new leads.