Legal Document
Service Agreement
The Local Caterer · Mesa, Arizona · Effective 2026
Important: This Service Agreement governs all catering services provided by The Local Caterer. By approving a proposal, signing a contract, or submitting payment, you agree to all terms outlined herein. Please read carefully before booking.
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.
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 provided when applicable
- Disposable chafer kits 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 (Self-Serve or Staffed)
- Family-Style Service
- Fully Plated Service
- Private Chef / Private Dinner
All service details, staffing levels, and execution plans will be defined in the BEO.
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 and coordination
- Banquet Event Order (BEO) creation and revisions
- Client communication and consultation
- Menu development and customization
- Front-of-house preparation and event setup planning
- Scheduling and management of service staff
- Office labor 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.
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
Delivery Fees
Delivery fees apply unless explicitly waived in writing:
| Distance | Fee |
|---|---|
| 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.
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 and service schedule
- Staffing requirements
- Setup and breakdown details
Client approval of the BEO constitutes full acceptance of all event details.
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
- • 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
- Release of the event date
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
Billing & Payments
- Accepted payment methods: cash, check, or credit card
- Returned payments incur a $50 fee per occurrence
- Late payments may result in additional fees and/or cancellation
Equipment & Rentals
All Company equipment remains Company property.
Client is responsible for loss, theft, and damage. Replacement or repair costs will be billed accordingly.
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
Tastings
- Tastings are $50 per guest
- Credited toward final invoice upon booking
- Pricing may vary based on menu
Uniforms
- Uniform standards are set by the Company
- Themed attire may be available for an additional fee
- Final approval remains with the Company
Holiday Surcharge
A 25% surcharge applies to events on the following holidays:
- Easter
- Independence Day
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
- New Year's Eve
- New Year's Day
Tax Exemption
Valid Arizona tax-exempt documentation must be provided prior to invoicing.
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
- Improper handling of food or equipment
Right to Refuse or Terminate Service
The Company may refuse or terminate service without refund if conditions are unsafe, illegal, or disruptive.
Policy Modifications
The Company reserves the right to modify these terms. The version in effect at time of agreement governs.
Venue & Site Requirements
Client is responsible for ensuring the venue provides:
- Adequate access for loading/unloading
- Reasonable proximity to service areas
- Necessary utilities (if required)
Additional labor or equipment required due to site conditions may result in additional charges.
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 Client, venue, or third parties, or after service concludes.
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:
- Client provides all alcohol
- Client assumes all 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.
Agreement Acceptance
By signing or submitting payment, Client agrees to all terms in this Agreement.
Contact Information
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