Personal Chef Service Agreement
This Personal Chef Service Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into by and between Antonette Huell ("Chef") operating as Food Theory LLC ("Food Theory") and the Client ("Client").
MENU PLANNING AND PROPOSALS: Food Theory will collaborate with the Client on a custom-curated menu proposal based on the information provided in the Client’s questionnaire and consultation. For quality control purposes, all Client/Chef correspondence shall be conducted in writing via email. Menu proposals must be confirmed at least 24 hours before the service date. Failure to do so will be considered a last-minute cancellation (see cancellation policy below). The Client’s quote includes menu planning, correspondence, travel fees, and ingredient sourcing. Agreed-upon menu items are subject to change due to ingredient availability, quality, or other unforeseen factors. Food Theory prioritizes organic ingredients, then locally sourced and sustainable options. If the Client has preferred stores, this should be communicated in advance. In some cases, supplementary ingredients may be sourced from other neighborhood grocery stores, specialty food stores, or farmers' markets.
SCHEDULING: Food Theory will arrive at the Client’s home at the agreed-upon time and date. Full access to the kitchen and cooking area is required for an estimated 3-8 hours. The Client must ensure accessibility on the scheduled cook date. If the Chef is unable to access the home due to changed locks, pets, or other barriers, the appointment will be treated as a last-minute cancellation, and the Client will be responsible for the grocery costs if the deposit does not cover them. To maintain a professional environment, Clients, children, pets, and other distractions should be kept out of the kitchen area during scheduled service times.
CANCELLATION POLICY: Food Theory understands that plans may change, and flexibility is sometimes needed. Therefore, weekly clients are allowed up to two "free passes" per quarter, and bi-weekly clients may receive one "free pass" every six weeks for rescheduling or skipping a cook-date. In lieu of canceling, the Client has the option to have the Chef stock the freezer with backup meals or conduct an inventory of available ingredients to plan for future services. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled service will be charged the full service fee and grocery costs. Failure to provide proper notice will result in a full service charge for the missed appointment.
HOME KITCHEN REQUIREMENTS: Food Theory takes pride in respecting the Client’s home and equipment. The Chef will leave the kitchen in the same condition as found, remove personal equipment, and put away leftover groceries. The Client must ensure the kitchen is clean and ready for use, including emptying the dishwasher prior to the Chef’s arrival. If the Chef arrives to an unsuitable workspace, documentation will be taken, and a $50 cleaning fee will be added to the invoice. If the kitchen lacks essential facilities such as running water or electricity, the Chef will prepare and store what is feasible, and the Client will be charged for the scheduled service and groceries.
FOOD SAFETY: Meals will be packaged with suggested heating and serving instructions. While Food Theory strives for accuracy, instructions may vary due to oven inconsistencies or other factors. The Chef reserves the right to discard any food deemed unfit for consumption, including previously prepared meals. Food Theory is not liable for foodborne illness resulting from improper storage, defrosting, or reheating by the Client. Food Theory cannot guarantee allergen-free meals if meals are prepared in a commercial kitchen and delivered.
INVOICES AND PAYMENT TERMS: Invoices will be issued through Wave after the service date. Payments are due within 14 days of the invoice date. A $5 per day late fee applies to overdue invoices. Accounts unpaid after 30 days will be referred to an attorney or collection agency. Food Theory accepts checks and credit card payments via Wave. Credit card payments incur a processing fee. Food Theory does not accept Venmo, PayPal, or Stripe.
PHOTOGRAPHY RELEASE: The Client grants Food Theory the right to use photographs of meals prepared in the Client’s home for marketing and social media purposes. If the Client wishes to opt out, a written request must be submitted before the service date.
If you have questions or would like to request additional information regarding Personal Chef Service, contact contact@foodtheoryllc.com.