Booking & Reservation Policy

This policy outlines the terms for reserving and booking private chef services with Chef Chris Prael. By submitting a reservation deposit, you agree to the terms below.

Reservation Deposit

A $150 reservation deposit is required to secure your requested date and begin the booking process.

• The deposit is applied toward your final event total once your booking is confirmed

• Requested dates are held temporarily while availability is reviewed

• If your requested date cannot be accommodated, your deposit will be fully refunded

• Once your event is confirmed, your date is officially secured

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email or text message.

Because each event is custom-planned and dates are limited, the following terms apply after confirmation:

• 30+ days before the event: Partial refund of payments made, excluding the reservation deposit

• 14–29 days before the event: 50% refund of eligible payments, excluding the deposit

• Less than 14 days before the event: No refunds will be issued

Any specialty ingredients or custom orders purchased in advance are non-refundable.

Rescheduling Policy

• One reschedule is permitted per booking if requested at least 14 days prior to the event date and subject to availability

• Requests made within 14 days of the event may require a new deposit

• Additional rescheduling may be subject to additional fees or a new deposit

• In the event of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, reasonable accommodations will be made whenever possible

Guest Count Policy

• Final guest count must be confirmed no later than 7 days before the event

• Increases in guest count are subject to availability and additional cost

• Reductions after the final confirmation deadline are non-refundable

Dietary Restrictions & Allergies

• All dietary restrictions, allergies, and menu modifications must be submitted at least 7 days prior to the event

• Requests received after this period may not be guaranteed

Travel Policy

Events outside the standard service area (San Diego County) may be subject to additional travel fees, which will be confirmed prior to final booking.

Payment Processing (Square)

All payments for services are processed securely through Square, a third-party payment processor.

Square is responsible for securely handling and encrypting all payment information. Chef Christopher Prael does not collect, store, or have access to full credit card or banking details at any time.

By submitting payment, the Client agrees to Square’s terms and privacy policies governing all payment transactions.

Event Requirements

To ensure proper service execution, clients agree to provide:

• Access to a functional kitchen

• Running water and electricity

• Adequate preparation and service space

• Reasonable kitchen access time prior to service for setup and preparation

If kitchen access is limited, delays or adjustments to service flow may occur.

Unexpected Circumstances

In the event of illness, emergencies, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, every effort will be made to reschedule your event at the earliest available date.

If rescheduling is not possible, refunds will be issued based on work completed and expenses incurred.

Service Scope, Operational Terms & Protection Clause

Included Services

Unless otherwise stated in writing, booked services may include:

• Menu planning and consultation

• Ingredient sourcing and purchasing

• On-site food preparation and cooking

• Professional private chef service during the event

• Food plating and presentation

• Standard kitchen cleanup related to food preparation and service

• Removal of chef-generated waste associated with service

• Linen napkins for each guest

• Table linens or tablecloths for service setup

• Water service, including water glasses and table water refills throughout the meal

Not Included Unless Specifically Agreed in Writing

The following are not included unless explicitly stated in the booking confirmation:

• Alcoholic beverages or bartending services

• Additional chefs, servers, bartenders, or event staff

• Specialty glassware (wine, champagne, cocktail, spirits)

• Tables, chairs, chargers, or rental equipment

• Venue rental fees

• Decorations, florals, candles, or event styling

• Specialty equipment rentals

• Off-site catering drop-off or delivery services

• Deep cleaning beyond standard kitchen cleanup

• Leftover food containers or packaging (unless arranged in advance)

Service Duration

• Service is provided within a standard event window agreed upon during booking

• Additional time beyond the agreed service window may incur additional charges

• Extended service is subject to availability

Kitchen Access & Client Responsibility

• Client must provide a safe and functional kitchen environment

• Client is responsible for ensuring appliances, utilities, and basic equipment are in working condition

• Chef is not responsible for missing or non-functional kitchen equipment unless previously agreed

Menu Flexibility & Substitutions

• Menu items may be adjusted based on seasonal availability, sourcing quality, or market conditions

• Substitutions may be made to maintain quality and integrity of the dining experience

Food Safety & Leftovers

• Any leftover food is left with the client at the end of service

• Once service is completed, full responsibility for food storage, handling, and consumption transfers to the client

• Chef is not responsible for food safety after departure

Liability Disclaimer

• Chef is not liable for pre-existing kitchen conditions or equipment failures

• Chef is not responsible for damages caused by client, guests, pets, or unsafe environments

• Client assumes responsibility for maintaining a safe service environment

Agreement

By submitting a reservation deposit, the client acknowledges and agrees to all terms outlined in this policy, including the Booking & Reservation Policy and Service Scope & Operational Terms.