Legal

The Local Caterer — Service Agreement

The Local Wedding · thelocalwedding.com · Last updated: April 20, 2026

1. Agreement Overview

This Service Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into between The Local Caterer ("Company") and the Client. By approving a proposal, signing a contract, or submitting payment, Client agrees to all terms outlined herein.

All services ("Services") will be executed in accordance with the finalized Banquet Event Order (BEO), which serves as the governing document for the event.

2. Services Provided

2.1 Pick-Up Service

Client may pick up food from the Company's kitchen either hot or cold. Reheating instructions will be provided for cold items. Upon pickup, Client assumes full responsibility for food handling, storage, reheating, and food safety. The Company is not liable for food quality or safety after pickup.

2.2 Drop-Off Service

Food will be delivered to the Client's event location. Items may be delivered hot or cold. Reheating instructions will be provided when applicable. Disposable chafer kits are available for an additional fee. Upon delivery, Client assumes responsibility for maintaining safe food temperatures.

2.3 Service Styles

Available service formats include self-serve buffet, staffed buffet, china service, family-style service, fully plated service, and private chef or private dinner service. All service details, staffing levels, and execution plans will be defined in the BEO.

3. Service Charge (Non-Gratuity)

A 20% service charge will be added to all events. This service charge is a mandatory fee, is not a gratuity, and is not distributed as tips to service staff.

The service charge supports the operational and administrative work required to execute the event, including event planning, BEO creation and revisions, client communication, menu development, front-of-house preparation, staffing coordination, and administrative overhead.

Gratuity is not included and not expected, but may be provided at the Client's discretion. The Company reserves the right to adjust the service charge based on event complexity, scope, or special requirements.

4. Staffing

Service staff are billed at $25 per staff member, per hour, unless otherwise specified. Certain service styles require mandatory staffing, which will be outlined in the proposal and BEO. Once approved, staffing levels are final and required for proper service execution.

5. Delivery Fees

Delivery fees apply unless explicitly waived in writing.

0–10 miles$25

10–20 miles$50

20–30 miles$75

30–40 miles$100

40–50 miles$125

Additional fees may apply for extended distances, limited access locations, stairs, elevators, or multiple delivery points.

6. Banquet Event Order (BEO)

The finalized BEO supersedes all prior communications and serves as the sole governing document for event execution.

The BEO includes menu selections, guest count, timeline, staffing requirements, and setup and breakdown details. Client approval of the BEO constitutes full acceptance of all event details.

7. Payment Terms

7.1 Booking & Minimum Guest Count

At the time of booking, the Client will provide an initial guest count. This number establishes the minimum guaranteed guest count for billing purposes.

The initial guest count may be increased at any time, subject to availability
The initial guest count may not be reduced under any circumstances after booking
All pricing, staffing, and preparation will be based on this minimum guest count and are subject to adjustment based on any increase in guest count

7.2 Deposits & Payment Schedules

All payments are based on the total estimated invoice and may be adjusted based on increases to the guest count and approved changes.

Events More Than 90 Days From Event Date

25% non-refundable deposit due at booking
50% due 90 days prior to the event
Remaining 25% due 14 days prior to the event

Events Within 90 Days of Event Date

50% non-refundable deposit due at booking
Remaining 50% due 14 days prior to the event

7.3 Final Guest Count

The final guest count is due 14 days prior to the event date and becomes the final guaranteed guest count for billing purposes.

Guest count may increase up until this deadline, subject to availability
After this deadline, the guest count is locked and cannot be reduced or increased
Client will be billed for the final guest count or actual attendance, whichever is greater

7.4 Failure to Pay

All payments must be received by stated deadlines.

No services will be rendered unless the account is paid in full
Failure to meet payment deadlines may result in: cancellation of services, forfeiture of all payments made, and release of the event date

8. Cancellations & Rescheduling

All deposits are non-refundable. Cancellation results in forfeiture of all payments made. Rescheduling is subject to availability, requires a 25% rescheduling fee, and must be approved in writing.

9. Billing & Payments

Accepted payment methods include cash, check, or credit card. Returned payments incur a $50 fee per occurrence. Late payments may result in additional fees and/or cancellation.

10. Equipment & Rentals

All Company equipment remains Company property. Client is responsible for loss, theft, or damage. Replacement or repair costs will be billed accordingly.

11. Leftovers & Food Safety

To-go containers may be provided at Company discretion. Any food removed is done so at Client's own risk. The Company is not responsible for food safety after service or after food leaves Company control.

12. Tastings

Tastings are $50 per guest and are credited toward the final invoice upon booking. Pricing may vary based on menu selections.

13. Uniforms

Uniform standards are set by the Company. Themed attire may be available for an additional fee. Final approval remains with the Company.

14. Holiday Surcharge

A 25% surcharge applies to events held on Easter, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.

15. Tax Exemption

Valid Arizona tax-exempt documentation must be provided prior to invoicing.

16. Limitation of Liability

The Company is not liable for food safety after pickup or delivery, delays outside Company control, actions of guests or third parties, or improper handling of food or equipment.

17. Right to Refuse or Terminate Service

The Company may refuse or terminate service without refund if conditions are unsafe, illegal, or disruptive.

18. Policy Modifications

The Company reserves the right to modify these terms. The version in effect at time of agreement governs.

19. Venue & Site Requirements

Client is responsible for ensuring the venue provides adequate access for loading and unloading, reasonable proximity to service areas, and necessary utilities if required. Additional labor or equipment required due to site conditions may result in additional charges.

20. Service Timing & Food Quality

All service times are defined in the BEO. The Company guarantees food quality during the scheduled service window only. The Company is not responsible for food condition outside the service window, due to delays caused by the Client, venue, or third parties, or after service concludes.

21. Alcohol Service Policy

The Company does not provide or assume responsibility for alcohol unless specified in the BEO. If requested, the Company may provide or contract a bartender. In all cases, the Client provides all alcohol and assumes full liability for alcohol service and consumption. The Company is not liable for any alcohol-related incidents. The Company reserves the right to refuse alcohol service if deemed unsafe or unlawful.

22. Agreement Acceptance

By signing or submitting payment, Client agrees to all terms in this Agreement.

Questions? Contact Us:

The Local Wedding / The Local Caterer
Mesa, Arizona
(480) 665-5577
josh@thelocalcaterer.com
www.thelocalwedding.com