6 Catering Contract Gotchas
- Guest Count Guarantees: HIGH You often pay for guaranteed guest count even if fewer attend. Count locks in 7-14 days before event
- Last-Minute Cancellation Fees: HIGH Cancelling within 30 days may forfeit 50-100% of total cost, not just deposit
- Food Safety Liability: HIGH Caterers often disclaim liability for foodborne illness after food leaves their control
- Service Charge vs. Gratuity: MEDIUM Service charges (18-22%) often don't go to staff and are kept by company. Gratuity is extra
- Venue Coordination Fees: MEDIUM Setup, breakdown, and coordination may cost extra. Travel fees for distant venues common
- Menu Substitution Rights: MEDIUM Caterer may substitute "comparable" items without notice due to availability