FAQs

General Catering Questions

1. How far in advance should I book catering for my event?

We accept bookings up to a year in advance. For large events, we recommend booking at least 2-8 weeks in advance to ensure availability. However, we may accommodate last-minute requests based on availability. Please Note: ALL last-minute orders must be paid in FULL or will be automatically canceled 24 hours after the invoice due date and time issued.

2. Do you require a retainer & deposit?

Yes, a $250 non-refundable retainer is required to secure your event date. This retainer is not a deposit but a fee to reserve our services and cover administrative costs. It is earned upon payment and will be applied to your total balance. A 50% non-refundable deposit is due 4 weeks prior to your event. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks prior to your event.

3. Do you offer payment plans for catering services?

Yes! We offer payment plans upon request to help make your event more manageable. We also accept Afterpay, allowing you to split your payments into installments. If you're interested in a payment plan, let us know, and we can discuss available options.

4. Do you offer tastings?

Yes! We offer private tastings for large events. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

5. Can I customize my menu?

Absolutely! We work with you to create a menu that fits your taste, dietary needs, and event theme.

6. Do you provide staff for events?

Yes! We offer Buffet Service and Full-Service Plated Meals. Our staffing fees are based on the level of service required.

7. What is the difference between Drop-Off Only and Staffed Catering?

  • Drop-Off Catering: We deliver the food fresh and ready to serve, but no setup or staffing is included. Perfect for casual events and self-serve gatherings. Delivery fees apply.

  • Staffed Catering (Stay & Serve): Our team provides on-site service, including setup/breakdown, serving, and cleanup. Great for formal events and full-service experiences. Additional service fees apply.

8. Do you cater outside of the Metropolitan Detroit area?

Yes, we cater outside of the Metro Detroit area! However, travel fees may apply depending on the location. Please contact us for a custom quote.

9. What is your cancellation policy?

All payments, including the retainer, are nonrefundable and nontransferable. If you need to cancel, you may be eligible for a credit that can be applied toward a future event. The credit amount will be determined based on the timing of the cancellation and must be used within one year from the original cancellation date. Any unused credit will expire after one year.

10. How is the service time calculated for staffed catering?

If your event is scheduled from 5 PM - 8 PM, our team will typically arrive around 4 PM to set up and stay until 9 PM for breakdown. The 3-hour minimum per server covers their service time, while the setup/breakdown fee ensures that everything is properly arranged before guests arrive and thoroughly cleaned up afterward.

11. What is the difference between Setup/Breakdown Fee vs. Staffed Service Charges

  • Our staffed service includes professional servers at $60 per hour, with a minimum of 3 hours per server. This time covers setting up the buffet or dining area, serving guests, and light cleanup during the event.

  • The $150 setup/breakdown fee is a separate flat charge that covers the additional labor involved in unloading equipment, organizing the setup, and ensuring a thorough cleanup after the event—beyond what servers typically handle. This fee ensures that everything runs smoothly before, during, and after your event.

12. Do you have a Chargeback Policy?

  • Yes, we have a Chargeback Policy. By booking with us, you agree that all payments are final, and you waive any right to dispute charges via your bank or credit card company.

  • If a chargeback is filed, legal action may be pursued, and the client will be responsible for all associated fees.

Rental Questions

What is included in the $375 Luxe Table Setup Rental Package?

Rental Package Includes:

  • 2 Tabletop Fire Pits (adds ambiance and luxury)

  • 2 Drink Dispensers (elegant stylish design)

  • 3 Luxury Food Displays (assorted stands, risers and food displays for a stunning presentation)

  • 2 Heating Lamps (to keep food warm)

  • Styling of the Display

Do you offer additional rental items?

Yes! You can enhance your setup with:
➕ Additional Fire Pit – $50 each
➕ Extra Drink Dispenser – $25 each
➕ More Luxury Food Displays – $40+ per piece
➕ Custom Floral or Candle Arrangements – Inquire for pricing

Do you stay and serve with the rental setup?

No, this is a drop-off, setup, and retrieval service. We will set up your luxury display, but our team does not stay to serve food or drinks.

When do you pick up the rental items?

We will coordinate a retrieval time based on your event schedule. All rented items must be available for pickup at the agreed-upon time to avoid additional fees.

Is there a security deposit required?

Yes, a $150 refundable security deposit is required. This will be returned after all rental items are inspected and confirmed to be in good condition.

Meal Prep Questions

When do I need to place my meal prep order?
Orders must be placed and paid in full 1 week in advance for the following week's delivery.

How is the food packaged?
All meals are individually packaged in microwave-safe containers for easy storage.

Can I substitute ingredients or customize my meals?
We do our best to accommodate requests, but customization may be limited depending on the meal plan.

Do you offer vegetarian options?
Yes, we have a variety of vegetarian and other dietary-friendly meals available.

How long do the meals last?
Meals stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

What are your delivery areas and fees?
We currently deliver to Detroit & surrounding cities. Delivery fees vary based on distance and order size.

📞 Still have questions? Contact us at 313-955-0679 or email us at jackieseventstudio@yahoo.com