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Dedicated July 2018

Catering Deposit

Lisa, on May 30, 2018 at 8:44 PM Posted in Planning 0 12

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I was looking over my "contract" with the caterer. I am their first client, although the chef has plenty of experience. I just think that the company is a bit disorganized and after I put the deposit down, they stopped responding to my emails. I looked over the contract and there is nothing on there saying it is non refundable. It is simply a quote with our names signed at the bottom. I haven't spoken to them about this but I'm planning to just find another caterer for my wedding. Do you think I can get my deposit back?

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12 Comments

Latest activity by Malwen107, on May 31, 2018 at 12:23 AM

Devoted July 2018
Mrsp · on May 30, 2018 at 8:51 PM
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This is a question for your caterer.
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Just Said Yes May 2019
Anistashia · on May 30, 2018 at 8:52 PM
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As long as there is nothing stating that you are committed to hiring them as your caterer you should be okay.
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Dedicated June 2018
Ally · on May 30, 2018 at 8:54 PM
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Definitely inquire about your deposit and going forward make sure you have a good well written contract with your vendors to protect yourself. As long as there was nothing about it being non refundable you should be totally fine
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Dedicated July 2018
Lisa · on May 30, 2018 at 8:55 PM
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If only they would respond to my emails!
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Champion December 2017
earias · on May 30, 2018 at 9:09 PM
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Have you tried calling them? I would call and then if they don't respond send a certified letter demanding the return of my deposit within 14 days.
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Dedicated July 2018
Lisa · on May 30, 2018 at 9:10 PM
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They always say the owner is busy... and I live four hours away
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Champion December 2017
earias · on May 30, 2018 at 9:15 PM
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Have you in no uncertain terms firmly explained to whoever answers their phone that you are an unhappy client who is demanding their money back and to put you through to the owner immediately? Try that. If you still can't get through to the owner then send the certified letter as I stated previously. If they fail to respond to your letter within the time specified then you could take them to small claims court for the return of your deposit. Small claims is quick, easy and doesn't require an attorney.
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Dedicated July 2018
Lisa · on May 30, 2018 at 9:21 PM
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I really appreciate your advice. Thank you! This is exactly what I was looking for.
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Savvy September 2018
Tamika · on May 30, 2018 at 10:06 PM
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Since your wedding is so soon, I would confirm that another caterer is available first for your date. Don't want to be stuck without a caterer.
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Savvy August 2018
Carolina · on May 30, 2018 at 10:10 PM
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Document everything, follow up with emails. Worst case you can take them to small claims court.
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VIP July 2018
The Nuptials · on May 30, 2018 at 10:20 PM
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Do you need the money back to book a new person? July is around the corner so you need a new caterer ASAP. I agree its time to walk away from these people. But if you need the money, and I understand most people do, you may be at their mercy.
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VIP October 2018
Malwen107 · on May 31, 2018 at 12:23 AM
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I'm not sure I really understand your reason for wanting to can them this late in the game. You knew you were their first client when you signed the contract, correct? I agree with what others have said about confirming the availability of another caterer, before firing them. Also, make every effort possible to communicate with them and go up the food chain. You may be amazed how people's attitudes can change when you tell them you're unhappy and looking at taking your business elsewhere.
Are you sure they are not just busy with other events since wedding season is picking up?
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