Catering & Custom Pastry Service Agreement

What a good one includes

• Exact design specifications, flavor profiles, and estimated serving sizes to prevent late-stage creative disputes.
• A non-refundable retainer fee structure and a strict deadline for when the final balance must be paid in full.
• A firm cut-off date for finalizing guest counts, menu modifications, and design changes before production begins.
• Precise delivery logistics, including setup times, venue access requirements, and who assumes liability once the product is dropped off.
• Comprehensive allergen disclosures and a waiver of liability for cross-contamination in shared kitchen spaces.
• A detailed cancellation and postponement policy specifying what portion of the payment is forfeited under various timelines.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Accepting verbal or text-message design changes instead of requiring all modifications to be signed off in a written contract addendum.
• Failing to define who is responsible for providing cake stands, refrigeration, or outdoor weather protection at the venue.
• Allowing clients to pay the final balance on the day of the event, which risks non-payment after the goods have already been delivered.
• Omitting a force majeure clause that protects your business if extreme weather, venue closure, or illness prevents you from baking or delivering.

Frequently asked questions