Payment Schedule, Terms & Policies
Payment Schedule
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required upon signing to secure the event date. The remaining balance is due no later than 72 hours prior to the event. Accepted payment methods include Zelle (preferred, no processing fee) and PayPal (+$35 flat processing fee).
Failure to submit payment by the stated deadlines may result in delayed service, reduced service scope, or event cancellation, at the discretion of Dorothy’s Citchen.
Contracts & Deposits
All contracts must be signed by both parties at the time the deposit is submitted. The deposit secures the event date and initiates advance planning, ingredient sourcing, staffing commitments, and calendar blocking.
Deposits are non-refundable, but may be transferred one (1) time if the event is rescheduled with at least 14 days’ written notice, subject to availability. Deposits may not be applied to canceled events.
Late Payment Fees
Late fees are applied to ensure timely payment, support advance ingredient purchasing, confirm staffing, and maintain consistent service standards for all clients. A late fee of $350 will be applied if the final payment is not received by the stated due date. Late deposits may result in the event date being released without notice. Late payments require additional administrative time, disrupt operational planning, and may impact vendor and labor obligations; therefore, late fees compensate for these additional costs and risks.
Guest Count Policy
The final guest count is due no later than 14 days prior to the event date. This number is used to determine food quantities, staffing levels, and pricing.
Guest count increases within 14 days of the event are subject to availability and will incur an additional rush fee. Guest count decreases after the 14-day deadline will not be accommodated and will not result in a price adjustment.
Menu Selections & Changes
All menu selections must be finalized no later than 14 days prior to the event. This deadline allows for proper ordering, prep scheduling, and cost control. Menu changes submitted after the 14-day deadline will incur a minimum $200 administrative and procurement fee. Additional charges may apply depending on the scope of the changes, including ingredient substitutions, protein swaps, or full menu revisions. Late menu changes are subject to availability and may not be accommodated. This fee reflects the cost of last-minute ingredient sourcing, vendor minimums, labor rescheduling, and expedited preparation.
Minimum Order Requirements
Dorothy’s Citchen maintains a minimum order amount for catering services. If the guest count or event size falls below the stated minimum, additional charges may apply to meet staffing, preparation, and operational requirements. Minimums will be disclosed at the time of booking.
Client Responsibilities
The client is responsible for confirming all event logistics in advance, including:
Event address Parking and load-in access, Kitchen access, utilities, and workspace Venue readiness at the agreed-upon setup time Any venue-specific requirements (insurance certificates, permits, restrictions, or access limitations) must be communicated to Dorothy’s Citchen prior to the event date.
Service Times & Delays
Dorothy’s Citchen will make every reasonable effort to arrive and serve according to the agreed schedule. However, we are not liable for delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to traffic conditions, weather, accidents, venue delays, or acts of God. Clients with strict service or presentation timing requirements must communicate these needs in advance so accommodations can be discussed.
Service & Equipment
Dorothy’s Citchen provides delivery, setup, and buffet-style service unless otherwise specified in writing. Any additional services must be agreed upon in advance. The client is financially responsible for any damage to or loss of catering equipment caused by the client, guests, or venue staff. An itemized invoice for damages will be provided within 15 days following the event and is due upon receipt.
Food Safety, Health & Compliance
Dorothy’s Citchen operates in compliance with all local health and safety regulations, including food handling, preparation, and sanitation standards. Once food has been delivered or served, Dorothy’s Citchen is not responsible for maintaining proper food temperatures or storage conditions. If food is not consumed immediately, it is the client’s responsibility to ensure food is held, stored, and handled in accordance with food safety guidelines. Dorothy’s Citchen is not liable for illness, contamination, or safety issues resulting from client negligence, improper handling, or failure to follow recommended food safety practices.
Dietary Restrictions & Allergies
The client must disclose all known dietary restrictions and food allergies no later than the menu finalization deadline. While reasonable precautions are taken, cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed. Dorothy’s Citchen is not responsible for allergic reactions or dietary issues that were not disclosed in advance.
Force Majeure
Dorothy’s Citchen shall not be held liable for failure or delay in the performance of this agreement if such failure is caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, severe weather, fire, flood, labor strikes, government orders, public health emergencies, or other acts of God. In such circumstances, reasonable efforts will be made to reschedule services or apply payments toward a future event, subject to availability.