Frequently Asked Questions
What cities or areas do you service?
We provide catering & bar services all across the San Francisco Bay Area. If services are needed outside this area, simply let us know where your event is being held & we can tell you if it's an area we can service.
There is no kitchen where my event is being held. Are you still able to cater it?
Yes we can! Please let us know where your event is being held when you give us your event details so we can address the logistics and any possible issues.
Are there additonal fees/charges not included in the price of the meal?
Sales tax based on your event location will be added to your sub total. As well as a 10% administrative fee. This covers the cost of equipment, securing products and other time consuming administrative details that are required to produce a successful event.
Do you offer tasings so I can try items before I book?
Yes, we are happy to offer our clients one complimentary private tasting for up to four, once you have received your catering quote. Additional guests are $10 + tax each. After you have received your catering quote, please request a tasting if you are interested we will work with you to schedule it. Tastings are offered Mon-Fri before 4pm, and are held at our sister restaurant, The Growler located at: 515 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Danville, CA 94526.
Do you require a deposit to hold my date/ When is final payment due?
Yes. For all events we require an initial 25% deposit at contract signing, & the remaining balance is due no later than 10 days after your event.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, money orders, cashiers checks, debit cards & all major credit cards.
When do you need my final guest count?
We require your final guest count at least 7 days prior to your event so we can prepare accordingly.
How much time do I have to make changes to my menu?
Menus must be finalized no less than 7 days prior to your event so we can prepare accordingly.
How far in advance do I need to book you?
If you know your event date, we always recommend you book to save your date as soon as possible. Particular months fill up quickly, & weekend days any time of year are especially likely to fill up. Once you have signed your contract & paid your initial deposit, your date is locked in & on our calendar.
Is there a minimum number of guests required to book your services?
We do not book events of less than 10 people. When you complete our online inquiry form, please note the number of guests you anticipate & we will let you know if we can accommodate your event. Certain exceptions may apply.
Can you provide me with any services other than catering?
Absolutely! We are a one-stop-shop, so we are happy to arrange event rentals you need such as guest tables, seating, linens, chair covers, china, tents - almost everything you can think of! Just let us know what you need & we will include those items in your catering package quote.
Are there any dates or holidays you do not cater?
We try to be available for service year round. Some exclusions may apply (number of guests, location, etc.) The only day we are closed is Christmas Day (December 25th).
If I need to cancel my event, what is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your event, your deposit can be applied toward the cost of any new event contracted with Simple Elegance Catering. Cancellations made 30 to 7 days prior to your event will forfeit 75% of your deposit. Cancellations made less than 7 days prior to your event will forfeit the entire deposit.
How long is your food & bar service?
We have a 4 hour minimum for all staffed events. Food and bar service vary depending on the menu & event. The Simple Elegance office staff will help guide you through this process based on the needs of your event.
I'm planning on providing the alcohol at my event. Can I hire your bartenders to serve it?
We are more than happy to provide you bartenders for your needs, if we are contracted to cater your event.
What is included with a catering order?
Disposable plates, utensils, napkins & disposable tablecloths. Hot items also come with chafers & sternos to keep food hot. Included or added beverages come with disposable cups & beverage napkins (& ice, creamers, sweeteners, as applicable). Our professional staff will deliver & set up your order, as well as return to pick up (unless you prefer drop-off only).