Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. We are happy to accommodate dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive menus. Just let us know when planning your event, and we’ll create the right options for your guests.

What is the booking process?

To book our services, simply contact us for a consultation. If your event date is available, we’ll reserve it for you, discuss menu options, and review all the details to make sure everything is just right.

Can we customize the menu?

Absolutely. Every event is unique, and all of our menus are customized to your preferences. You choose the dishes and services you want, and we’ll prepare everything with care.

Do you offer delivery or pick-up?

Yes. We offer both convenient drop-off catering and kitchen pick-up options, depending on what works best for your event.

How far in advance should we book?

For most events, we recommend booking at least 30 days ahead. Smaller gatherings and pick-up orders can often be scheduled with shorter notice, depending on availability.
Please note that November and December are our busiest months. For the best menu selections and to secure your preferred date, we recommend booking holiday events by June.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes. A deposit is required to secure your event date. Final payment terms will be confirmed during booking.

What areas do you serve?

We cater throughout San Diego County. Delivery fees may apply depending on location. Please contact us to confirm if we serve your area.

Do you provide staff for events?

Yes. For select events, we can provide professional service staff to assist with setup, serving, and cleanup. Staffing needs are discussed during the booking process.

What types of events do you cater?

We handle a wide range of events, including birthdays, anniversaries, office lunches, fundraisers, community gatherings, and more. We also accept a limited number of weddings each year.

Can you provide rentals like tables, chairs, or linens?

Yes. We can coordinate supplies and rentals as needed. Please ask during booking so we can include them in your proposal.

What is included with drop-off catering?

Drop-off catering includes your chosen menu, delivered fresh and fully set up on your display table. For rentals such as chafing dishes, linens, or serving bowls, our team will return after your event to collect them. A Delivery, Set-Up & Return Fee (usually $75–$100) applies to cover both trips and service.

Can we schedule a tasting?

Yes. Tastings may be arranged for select larger events. For clients with a signed contract, we may provide tastings at a reduced fee or credit the tasting fee toward your event total. For prospective clients without a booking, tastings are available at a set per-person cost. Please contact us for current pricing and availability.

Do you handle last-minute orders?

We do our best to accommodate last-minute requests. Availability depends on the size of the order and our event schedule, so please call us directly to check if we can help.

Do you charge an administrative fee?

Yes. An administrative fee is applied to all catered events. This fee covers behind-the-scenes costs such as planning, coordination, and operational expenses. It is not a gratuity for staff.

Is gratuity included?

For staffed events, an automatic gratuity of 18% is added to the total invoice. This gratuity is distributed among service staff.

For drop-off and pick-up orders, gratuities are not included and are left to the client’s discretion.

What is your cancellation policy?

For weekend events, cancellations made more than 90 days before the event may receive a refund of the deposit, less the administrative fee. For weekday events, cancellations made more than 60 days in advance may receive a refund of the deposit, less the administrative fee. Cancellations made within these timeframes are non-refundable, as we reserve your date in good faith and turn away other clients. Full cancellation terms are outlined in our Booking Policies.

Do you recommend event insurance?

Yes. We highly recommend that clients consider purchasing event insurance to protect their investment. Event insurance can help cover non-refundable deposits and other costs if unforeseen circumstances — such as venue damage, severe weather, or sudden illness — force a cancellation or postponement. For more details, consult your insurance provider or explore options from trusted event insurance companies.

When are payments due?


  • A deposit is required when you book.
  • Your final balance is due 7 days before your event.
  • If a payment is late, a 5% fee (or $50 minimum) is added.
  • If payment is more than 7 days late, your event may be canceled and deposits forfeited.

If I make changes after booking, will the price change?


Yes. If you add more food, increase your guest count, or upgrade services, your price will be updated to reflect the additional costs.

How long is my quote valid?

  • Quotes are valid for 30 days. Once you sign a contract and place your deposit, your pricing is locked in — unless you make changes to your guest count, menu, or event details.
  • Please note: pricing may vary seasonally (for example, during holidays or due to rising food costs).

What happens to leftover food after my event?

  • We’re happy to package up any leftover food you’ve purchased, as long as proper refrigeration is available.
  • Please note that food served on a buffet or to guests cannot be reused for safety reasons.
  • Once the food is left in your care, Cupid’s Catering is no longer responsible for its safety or quality.