Booking Policy
HOW WE HOLD DATES.
Clear terms so you know exactly how dates, deposits, and cancellations work. No hidden fees, no surprise clauses. If anything here is unclear, call the kitchen at 773-312-3463.
Last updated: October 2026. These terms apply to all bookings with The Chicago Catering Company.
01
Securing Your Date
- Dates are held tentatively for 48 hours while we finalize your quote.
- A 25% deposit locks your date on the calendar — no exceptions for peak season (September–December).
- For events over $5,000, a signed proposal and deposit are both required to confirm.
- We cater one major event per day per neighborhood zone, so early booking is recommended for Fridays and weekends.
- Recurring office lunch programs can be booked on weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cadences without re-depositing.
02
Deposit Requirements
- 25% deposit due at booking to secure the date.
- For events under $1,000, a flat $250 minimum deposit applies.
- Deposits are transferable to a new date if rescheduled 14+ days in advance (see Cancellations).
- The remaining balance is due 7 days before the event for one-time bookings.
- Recurring office accounts are billed net-15 after each delivery, with the deposit applied to the first invoice.
03
Cancellations & Rescheduling
- Cancellations 14+ days before the event: full deposit transferable to a future date within 6 months.
- Cancellations 7–13 days before: 50% of the deposit is retained; the balance is transferable.
- Cancellations within 7 days of the event: deposit is forfeited, as ingredients and staff are already committed.
- Rescheduling to a new date 14+ days out: no fee, deposit moves with you.
- Rescheduling within 7 days: subject to a 15% restocking fee on perishables already sourced.
- Weather and acts of God: we reschedule at no cost, subject to kitchen availability.
04
Final Headcount & Changes
- Final headcount is due 72 hours before the event for one-time bookings.
- Headcount increases up to 15% can usually be accommodated within 48 hours — we'll confirm.
- Headcount decreases after the 72-hour cutoff are billed at the confirmed count, as food is already prepped.
- Menu changes after the 72-hour cutoff may incur a restocking fee for replaced items.
- Dietary updates (adding vegan/GF plates) can be made up to 48 hours before delivery at no charge.
READY TO LOCK YOUR DATE?
Build your order and we'll send a proposal with deposit instructions within 24 hours.
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