catering service contract template

Professional Catering Services Agreement

Instructions for Use

• Complete all bracketed fields with the specific details of your event, ensuring that dates, times, and financial figures are verified for accuracy.
• Attach a detailed "Exhibit A" (Menu and Service Scope) to this document to ensure both parties have a clear understanding of the food, staffing, and equipment provided.
• Once completed, both parties must sign and date the document; maintain a digital or physical copy for your records to serve as the binding agreement for the event.

Parties & Definitions

This Catering Services Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of [Date] by and between:

Caterer: [Legal Name of Catering Company], with a principal place of business at [Catering Company Address] ("Caterer").

Client: [Full Legal Name of Client], with a billing address of [Client Address] ("Client").

Event Details: Event Date: [Date of Event] Event Venue: [Name and Address of Venue] Guaranteed Guest Count: [Number]

Operative Clauses

1. Scope of Services: The Caterer agrees to provide the food, beverage, and service staff as detailed in the attached "Exhibit A." Any changes to the menu or scope must be requested in writing and may be subject to additional fees.

2. Payment Terms:

   • A non-refundable deposit of [Amount] is due upon signing this Agreement to secure the date.
   • The remaining balance is due in full no later than [Number] days prior to the Event Date.
   • Payments shall be made via [Check/Credit Card/Wire Transfer].

3. Guaranteed Guest Count: The Client shall provide a final guaranteed guest count no later than [Number] days prior to the event. The Client will be billed for the guaranteed count or the actual number of guests served, whichever is greater.

4. Cancellations: If the Client cancels this Agreement, the following fees apply:

   • Cancellation [Number] days or more prior to event: Deposit is forfeited.
   • Cancellation less than [Number] days prior to event: [Percentage]% of the total estimated contract value is due.

5. Liability and Indemnification: The Caterer shall not be held liable for failure to perform due to causes beyond its reasonable control (e.g., acts of God, fire, or government restrictions). The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Caterer from any claims or damages arising from the conduct of the Client’s guests.

6. Insurance: The Caterer shall maintain general liability insurance for the duration of the event. Proof of insurance will be provided upon written request by the Client.

7. Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the state of [State Name].

Signature & Acknowledgment

Caterer Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Name] Title: [Title] Date: [Date]

Client Signature: __________ Printed Name: [Name] Title: [Title] Date: [Date]

Disclaimer: This document is a general framework and does not constitute formal legal advice. Catering laws, health codes, and liability statutes vary significantly by jurisdiction. Please consult with qualified legal counsel to ensure this document complies with local regulations.