Catering Guidelines

Dear Lafayette Community,

Lafayette Catering is committed to presenting foods that appeal to both the palate and the eye. The freshest and finest ingredients are combined to produce a stunning collection of offerings executed by our skilled and innovative chefs.

Creating that special touch is key to the success of our catering efforts. Developing relationships with our clients, knowing their nuances and delivering our commitment are crucial in these efforts.

Our goal is to make every event memorable by serving you great food by people who care.

For more information, to make an appointment, or place an order, please call us at 610- 330-5853 or e-mail us at [email protected]

You can also place an order online using our CaterTrax system.

Before Booking an Event….

When planning your event, please keep in mind that larger, more involved events require more planning and coordination. Therefore, we ask that you inform the catering office as early as possible even if you do not have all the event details.

In order for us to provide the best service possible, we request that all events are booked at least 10 business days in advance. In the event of a last minute order, menu items and service needs may be limited or subject to additional charges.

Room Reservations and Setup…

To reserve your event space, contact the Office of Scheduling and Event Planning at 610-330-5077 or email [email protected] All equipment such as tables, chairs, etc need to be secured by placing a work order with Plant Operations at 610-330-5373. Work orders are the responsibility of the person booking the event. The Catering Department will inform you of any table needs for food setup, etc.

Event Planning…

Once you have reserved the event location please contact the Catering Department at 610-330-5853 and have the following information available:

  • Name of Department or Organization
  • Date and Time of your Event
  • Location and Setup
  •  Guest Count
  • Account Number for Billing

To place your order online please visit www.lafayette-catering.catertrax.com

Please note that some locations may require limited menu offerings.

Guaranteed Guest Count and Billing…

A final guaranteed guest count is due at least 3 business days prior to the event. The Catering Department will plan and purchase for this count. You will be billed for the guaranteed number or the actual number of guests, whichever is greater. If a guaranteed number is not provided by the due date, your last estimate will be used as your guarantee.

Confirmations…

It is the responsibility of the person booking the event to verify that all information on the catering sales order is correct and to contact the Catering Department if any changes need to be made.

Cancellations…

All cancellations must be made 5 business days prior to the event. Events cancelled with less than the required notice will be assessed charges based on the costs incurred.

Billing…

All catered events must be paid for using a College Account Number. No other forms of payment will be accepted. The prices listed in this guide are for College sponsored events only. All outside organizations are subject to additional fees and sales tax.

Delivery, Set Up and Clean Up…

All prices listed include delivery, set up and clean up service for your event on campus. Please notify the Catering Department if the location of your event has specific hours of operation that would dictate clean up or set up times.

To ensure that your event is a success, catering staff will be provided for all served meals and some buffets during the first two hours of service as part of the cost of your event. If additional time is needed or additional servers are required, a fee of $20.00 per server per hour will be applied. 

Food Removal and Equipment Policy…

Due to health regulations, perishable leftovers may not be taken from the event and will not be packaged for removal. Catering equipment may not be removed from the event. In cases where it is removed, replacement charges will be applied to the final bill.

China Charges…

We provide eco-friendly service ware unless otherwise stated. China upgrade is available at specific locations. Reception – $2.00 per guest Full Meal – $3.50 per guest

Enhancements…

Our Catering Department will be happy to order, receive and handle specific details for your event including ice carvings, floral arrangements, upgraded linen, etc. We are committed to bringing you the best and will do so at the best price.

Linens…

The Catering Department will provide linen for all food and beverage tables at no charge to your event when ordering from the Classic Guide.

Buffet table linens are included in the price for all buffets and served meals.

Additional Linen Charges for Guest Seating:

  • Table Drape $5.95 per table
  • Table Top or Round $4.95 per table

Exemption from linen charges applies to drop-off service such as boxed lunches.

 Bar Service…

All alcoholic beverages served on campus must be provided and served by the Catering Department’s RAMP Certified Bartenders. Standard ratio for bartender service is 1 bartender per 50 guests. The service of alcohol may not exceed 4 hours and must conclude ½ hour prior to the events scheduled time.

Student Events

If students are in attendance at your event and alcohol is being served you must provide a birthday list for those who are of age to consume alcohol. The Catering Department will provide an attendant to check the birthday list and distribute wristbands appropriately (additional charges may apply). Some events may require the presence of security personnel. The policy for student alcohol consumption is one drink per hour.

For full alcohol policy please refer to Lafayette College Alcohol Service Policy.

Bartender and Wine Service Fees
A fee of $35.00 per hour (4 hour minimum) is charged for all RAMP Certified Bartenders and Wine Servers (includes setup and cleanup)

Bar Setup Fees Full Bar Setup:
includes assorted soda, bottled water, juice, tonic, club, bar fruits and bar equipment.

  • Glassware – $3.00 per guest
  • Eco ware – $2.00 per guest
  • Beer and Wine Setup: includes assorted soda, bottled water and bar equipment Glassware – $2.25 per guest
  •  Eco ware – $1.50 per guest

Lafayette Catering Exemptions: Lafayette College Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverage Service Policy

Thank you again and we look forward to hearing from you for your event.

For more information, to make an appointment, or place an order, please call us at 610- 330-5853 or e-mail us at [email protected]