Catering Frequently Asked Questions

+ How can I book my event?

It's easy! Just complete the form on the bottom of our catering page. We can discuss details over the phone, in person at our office, or via email - whichever is easiest for you! In-office meetings are by appointment only.

+ Do you have an OC catering minimum?

Yes! Here's our OC service options with associated catering minimums:

• Dessert pick up: $250 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Pick up/Drop off: $500 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Set-up: $1,000 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Service: $1,250 food minimum before taxes and fees

+ Do you have an LA catering minimum?

Yes! Here's our LA service options with associated catering minimums:

• Dessert pick up: $250 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Pick up: $500 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Drop off: $750 food minimum before taxes and fees
• Set-Up or Service: $1,500 food minimum before taxes and fees

+ What is your drop-off catering option?

Want the convenience of delivery without the need for setup? Our Drop-Off service brings your chef-prepared dishes right to your event, ensuring everything arrives fresh and ready to enjoy. This option is ideal for casual gatherings or when you want to keep things simple yet impressive. Available with a $500 catering food minimum purchase for OC and $750 for LA (before taxes and additional fees).

+ What is your set-up catering option?

Elevate your event with our Display service, where our team crafts a stunning, curated display of your food using high-end platters, linens, unique decor, and serving utensils that complement your theme. It also includes a personalized menu display, chafing dishes to keep food warm, and efficient end-of-event breakdown and cleanup. This service transforms your food presentation into a stunning centerpiece of the event. With meticulous pre-planning and a warehouse of decor elements, each display is thoughtfully customized to match your vision and make your event unforgettable. Available with a $1,000 catering food and beverage minimum purchase in OC and $1,500 in LA before taxes and additional fees). Taxes, delivery fees, and administrative fees are determined by your customized event needs. This option incurs a TMC signature display service, which is determined based on your food & beverage total, as well as the unique needs of your event—including the menu, guest count, and overall theme.

+ What is your service catering option?

For a truly seamless experience, our Full-Service option includes everything from the TMC Signature Display, plus onsite staff to take care of your guests. Our team will serve, replenish food, and ensure the catering area stays tidy throughout the event. You can choose from buffet-style, plated service, or chef-attended stations for a more interactive experience. As always, our team will handle the end-of-event cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your occasion. With Full Service, you’ll experience the highest level of care and attention to detail, ensuring that you and your guests are fully supported from start to finish. Available with a $1,250 catering food and beverage minimum purchase in OC and $1,500 in LA (before taxes and additional fees). Taxes, service staff, delivery fees, and administrative fees are determined by your customized event needs. This option incurs a TMC signature display service, which is determined based on your food & beverage total, as well as the unique needs of your event—including the menu, guest count, and overall theme.

+ Do you require a deposit?

Yes, a minimum deposit of fifty (50%) of the estimated charges is required to reserve date and time of event. Client shall pay the non-refundable deposit, due with a signed contract. Deposit will be deducted from client’s overall balance.

+ What is your cancellation policy?

Deadline to cancel any event is ten (10) days prior to event date. Cancelled events that occur within the deadline will be able to apply any collected payments towards another event within one (1) year of the event date. Any events cancelled after the ten (10) day deadline forfeit any collected payments. Event details are solidified at time of signature. It is the client’s responsibility to correct any incorrect information before final contract is signed. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are extending our grace period to use collected payments toward another event to be within two (2) years.

+ How far in advance should I book my next catering event?

Our Orange County catering service is in high demand! So, it's always good to start planning your event right away and reserve your date with a deposit! We typically close orders 10 days prior to your event date, but feel free to reach out to us at sales@taylormadecuisine.com to see if we can squeeze you in.

+ Is gratuity included?

No, we do not automatically charge a gratuity. We suggest an optional 15% gratuity for the staff (cash preferred), based on the size and type of event. Gratuity is always appreciated but never expected.

+ What if I want to change my menu?

No problem! Once you’ve secured your event date with a deposit, you’ll have the freedom to adjust your menu and services as desired until 14 days prior to your event date.

+ What size events can you handle?

We have the experience, expertise and staff to handle parties big and small. From large weddings and corporate events to backyard bashes and office luncheons, we do it all! We specialize in Orange County weddings, corporate catering, and private event catering in Orange County.

+ How far will you travel and where will you cater?

We cater event in Orange County and cater event in Los Angeles County too. Distance charges may apply depending on location. We can cater at any location that allows caterers. This includes public or private locations, parks, beaches, recreation centers, churches, venue spaces, etc.

+ Do you do drop-off catering orders?

Yes. We charge a delivery fee and fuel surcharge fee. You can also pick-up food from us to save yourself the delivery fee. Please let us know if any platters, disposable chafing dishes, utensils or plates are needed as additional fees may apply.

+ Do you have any children’s options?

Yes! We have a set menu to choose from or we can offer a children’s menu customizable to you.

+ Do you set up and clean up?

Typically, staff will arrive an 1.5 hours prior to event start time to set up necessary equipment for food service. If using a kitchen on-site, TMC provides a “Clean Kitchen Promise” which states that client’s kitchen will be left in same or better condition than when staff arrived on-site. This does not include client’s dishes or event space unless otherwise specified. Event/dish clean-up is an additional charge that shall be rendered on bill at the client’s request. If a client is procuring dish rentals, TMC staff will remove food debris and place dishes back in crates for pick-up. The client agrees that any appliances needed for service are in good working condition. TMC is not responsible for any disruption of service from faulty equipment.

+ What about leftovers?

It is our policy that any leftover food will be discarded after the event. We may leave or pack leftovers that are safe to consume if the client has made the request beforehand. We do not recommend serving leftovers after the event as we cannot anticipate how long leftover food has been held at unsafe temperatures. The client will assume full responsibility for any liability as a result of consuming leftover food after the event. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience but due to the Orange County Health Department, we adhere to this policy strictly.

+ Do you also make desserts?

Yes! We have our own in-house pastry team and a dedicated desserts menu.

+ Do you offer beverages?

Yes! We offer many types of beverage options for your catered event. Please contact a member of our sales team for a detailed quote.

+ Do you have waiters to serve at catering events?

Yes. Whether it is a formal plated meal, buffet, or reception, we have a team of qualified service staff to make sure your event runs smoothly.

+ Can you provide bartenders for my catering event?

Yes. We can source qualified bartenders for your event.

+ Can I order catering rentals through you?

Yes! We will coordinate all of your catering rental needs through a local rental company and will take care of the ordering, pick up, on-site coordination, handling, and return. Additional staff rates, on-site hours, and handling fees may apply. Please contact a member of our sales team for a detailed quote.

+ Do you cater to beaches and parks?

Yes. We are actually a preferred catering vendor for the OC Parks However, you must ensure to obtain the necessary permits for your event as required by the event location. TMC will not be held liable should fines be incurred due to failure to procure an event permit. Any outstanding charges will be reflected on the final bill and charged to your card on file.