Service Levels

1. Drop-Off Delivery
   Our most convenient option. Beautifully arranged trays with compostable serviceware, labeled allergens, and simple setup notes. Ideal for meetings, trainings, and budget-friendly volume.

2. Individually Packaged / Boxed Meals
   Keep lines moving and accommodate strict dietary needs. Each box clearly labeled by name, department, and diet (GF, DF, V, Veg, Nut-Free). Great for town halls and multi-site distributions. (Boxed formats minimize shared-utensil congestion and speed service.) Restaurantware

3. Full-Service & Hosted Events
   On-site captain, uniformed staff, equipment, chef stations, bar service, rentals, décor, and vendor management. Perfect for executive receptions and large celebrations. Chicago’s top corporate caterers win on this blend of menu craft + logistics—we’ve modeled our playbook on that level of professionalism.

Willow & Rye Catering Terms of Service

Last Updated: 08/01/2025

These Terms of Service (“Terms”) constitute a legally binding agreement between the client (“Client”) and Willow & Rye, LLC (“Willow & Rye,” “Company,” “we,” or “us”) governing all catering services, bookings, deposits, and event-related transactions. By placing a deposit, submitting payment, or confirming a booking with Willow & Rye, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms in their entirety.

1. DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS

1.1 Non-Refundable Deposit:
All deposits are strictly non-refundable. The deposit secures your event date, staff scheduling, ingredient sourcing, and event preparation time. Once received, the deposit cannot be transferred or refunded under any circumstance, including cancellation, postponement, or reduction in event size.

1.2 Deposit Amount:
A deposit amount (typically 50% of the total estimated balance unless otherwise stated in writing) is required at the time of booking to confirm your event. No services, labor, or date holds are guaranteed without receipt of this deposit.

1.3 Final Balance:
The remaining balance is due no later than [X days] prior to the event date. Failure to remit the balance by the due date may result in cancellation of services, forfeiture of deposit, and release of the event date.

1.4 Accepted Payment Methods:
Payments must be made via accepted methods listed on your invoice (e.g., credit card, debit card, ACH, or approved electronic transfer). Returned or declined payments may result in additional administrative fees.

2. CANCELLATIONS AND RESCHEDULING

2.1 Client-Initiated Cancellation:
In the event the Client cancels the booking for any reason, the deposit shall remain non-refundable. If cancellation occurs within 14 days of the event, the Client is responsible for 100% of the total contract amount due to perishable product procurement, labor scheduling, and lost business opportunity.

2.2 Rescheduling:
Requests to reschedule an event are subject to availability and must be made in writing. Willow & Rye reserves the right to deny rescheduling if the requested date is unavailable or if adequate notice (minimum 30 days) is not provided. Any approved rescheduling will require a new contract or addendum, and additional fees may apply.

2.3 Company-Initiated Cancellation:
Willow & Rye reserves the right to cancel any event due to unforeseen circumstances beyond its control (e.g., natural disasters, extreme weather, power outages, fire, or acts of God). In such rare instances, Willow & Rye may, at its sole discretion, offer to reschedule the event or apply credit toward a future booking. No refunds will be issued.

3. EVENT DETAILS AND CHANGES

3.1 Final Headcount:
Final guest count must be confirmed no later than 7 days prior to the event. Increases may incur additional charges; decreases will not reduce the final invoice total once confirmed.

3.2 Menu Adjustments:
Menu selections must be finalized no later than 14 days before the event. Willow & Rye reserves the right to make equivalent substitutions for ingredients or dishes based on market availability, seasonality, or supply chain limitations.

3.3 Service Time:
All catering services are contracted for a specified delivery or service window. Delays by the Client or venue beyond this window may result in additional hourly labor fees or forfeiture of temperature control or food quality guarantees.

4. LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION

4.1 Limitation of Liability:
Willow & Rye shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or claims arising from events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to venue restrictions, inclement weather, power outages, traffic delays, acts of third parties, or the conduct of guests or attendees.

4.2 Food Safety & Storage:
All food is prepared and delivered in compliance with local health regulations. Once food has been delivered, served, or transferred to the Client’s care, the Client assumes full responsibility for proper handling, storage, and service. Willow & Rye is not liable for any foodborne illness, spoilage, or damages resulting from mishandling or improper temperature control after delivery.

4.3 Property Damage:
The Client shall be responsible for any damage to Willow & Rye property, equipment, or materials while on-site. The Client agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Willow & Rye, its owners, employees, and contractors from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses arising out of or related to the event.

4.4 Indemnification:
The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Willow & Rye, its officers, agents, employees, and subcontractors from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of Client’s negligence, failure to comply with these Terms, or the actions of Client’s guests, vendors, or agents.

5. SERVICE CONDITIONS

5.1 Venue Requirements:
Client is responsible for ensuring that the event venue has suitable facilities, space, and access for setup, service, and breakdown. Any restrictions or limitations that interfere with service must be disclosed in advance.

5.2 Setup and Cleanup:
Standard setup and cleanup time are included in the quoted service. Excessive delays caused by venue access or other vendors may incur additional labor charges.

5.3 Equipment Rentals:
If Willow & Rye provides rental items (e.g., chafing dishes, serving ware, linens, etc.), the Client assumes full responsibility for loss, damage, or theft of such items and will be invoiced accordingly for replacement costs.

6. PHOTOGRAPHY & MEDIA CONSENT

The Client grants Willow & Rye the right to photograph or record catered events for promotional purposes, provided that no confidential or proprietary information is disclosed. The Client may revoke this consent in writing prior to the event.

7. GOVERNING LAW

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois. Any disputes shall be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in DuPage County, Illinois.

8. ENTIRE AGREEMENT

This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Client and Willow & Rye. No verbal agreements, modifications, or representations shall be binding unless made in writing and signed by both parties.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

By submitting a deposit or confirming a catering booking with Willow & Rye, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to all terms, policies, and conditions outlined herein.