How does the booking process work?
Soon after we receive your enquiry we will contact you for an initial consultation. Consultations are offered to clients in order to establish the menu and catering style for your event.
After we have established a menu and the catering style, we’ll then work out (depending on the type of event) an accurate quote or proposal stating all that is needed for your event. The quote or proposal is documented in a manner that is easy to understand, and clearly laid out. All costs are stated and there will be no “hidden” surprises. Prior to finalization of the actual menu, price ranges are used to give you an idea of what the event can cost may be, from the lowest to the highest dollar amount.
Is there a minimum catering order for all bookings?
Yes, all bookings are subject to a minimum catering order of 40 guests.
What is an average price range for a catered service from MKOC?
There are many different factors that contribute to pricing a catered event. These are: menu selections, guest count, length of event, distance of location from Cranbourne, and style of service, for example;
• Full Catered Service (buffet or plated) or
• Casual Catered (drop-off service).
When you provide us with a few details about your event, we can then discuss and tailor your options relative to your budget and give you a much better idea of what the catering cost may be for your event.
How far in advance should I book the caterer for my event?
It is never too soon to reserve your date. As with any boutique catering service it is not unusual for key dates to be booked out months in advance. As soon as you know your date it is highly recommended you place a hold on it immediately to avoid disappointment.
For all our Full Catered Service: If your event is on a desirable day, a holiday or weekend, we recommend booking at least two months in advance. If your event is during the week we recommend booking at least a month in advance.
For all our Drop Off Services: If your event is on a desirable day, a holiday or weekend, we recommend booking at least three weeks in advance. If your event is during the week we recommend booking at least two weeks in advance.
However, do not hesitate to call about availability at any time; we can often accommodate last minute requests.
Can we sample your food?
We would love for you to come in and meet us to taste all we have to offer. Tastings are a great time for us to meet with our clients in person to discuss the details of their event.
We do have a $25 per person tasting fee, and should you choose to sign with us, a $50 of your tasting fee will be applied towards your deposit.
How do I book My Kind of Chefs for my event?
Once we receive your booking/enquiry form, we will confirm receipt and follow up with a phone call to discuss details. We require a 50% non-refundable deposit to secure all bookings. Once the booking is confirmed, we will send you an invoice which includes the banking details. The balance of your payment is required on the day of the set up
On larger events, we will draw up a proposal once we have customized a package to fit your needs, a signed contract and 50% deposit will ensure that your event date is reserved.
ETF/Bank Transfer: You can make all payments by an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) directly to our bank account at Account name: Clove Catering, BSB: 303-672 Account Number: 0129299, Bank: Bankwest. Please send us an email to notify us of your payment once arranged. All customers are welcome to pay the balance payment for their booking in cash. If you require a receipt for the balance payment, please email us after your event at info@mykindofchefs.com.au and we will send you a receipt.
We don't really know how many guest will be at our event.
It is okay to give an approximate number of guests when booking, then provide the final count closer to the date. We do need an accurate estimate five days prior to the event to ensure we can properly cater and staff the function.
Are you licensed caterer?
Yes! We are licensed caterer and work out of a certified kitchen in Scoresby in South-East Melbourne. The proper certification of a business is very important, especially with so many home based, unlicensed "caterers" around. We are insured with five-million-dollar commercial liability insurance to cover client, vendors, guests or anyone who is potential affected by our services in a negative way. We have the necessary permits and business licenses too.
Can you recommend other vendors for our event?
We would be so pleased to suggest one of the many wonderful event professionals in the area to work with you. We have been working with many great photographers, rental companies, planners, musicians, florists, bakers, and more for years.
Do you supply rental items?
Yes, we do supply a limited number of rental items such as dishes, silverware, glassware, tables, linens, etc. However, for larger events, we can arrange for rentals on your behalf to ensure that you will have everything you need to make your event a success. So take advantage of our expertise and allow us to take the often confusing task of rentals off your plate.
How far from Cranbourne will you travel to cater an event?
‘My Kind of Chefs’ serve most suburbs of Melbourne. However, we serve majority of our clients within a 50-mile radius of Cranbourne.
Do you charge delivery charges?
MKOC provides free delivery within 50 km radius from Scoresby, including Beaconsfield, Berwick, Clyde North, Cranbourne and surrounds, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Eumemmerring, Fountain Gate, Hallam, Hampton Park, Harkaway, Junction Village, Lynbrook, Lyndhurst, Merinda Park, Narre Warren and surrounds and Junction Village.
All other areas within Melbourne (not specified) will attract a $30 delivery & pick up charges.
Can you custom prepare menus for an event, and also accommodate any special dietary requests, such as gluten free, vegan, vegetarian?
We love customising menus, so while you'll find some sample menus on our ‘Menus’ page, we
don't want you to feel like you're limited to those options. Menus can be designed to fit your specific theme, taste and budget. We are always more than happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions, allergies or food preferences.
Can you provide alcohol, wine and beer and bartenders?
Our license permits us to serve but not sell alcohol. We can provide you with a personalized beverage shopping list so you know just how much to buy. There is no corkage fee for the beverages you provide. We are able to provide you with our professionally trained and certified bartenders. They will not only ensure everyone has a great time, but will also uphold responsible alcohol serving practices to keep your guests safe.
What do you need to set up for the Full Catered Service option?
Once you decide to go ahead all you need to do is to make a booking, depending on your choice of catering service option, we will call you to discuss details or in the event of a larger booking we will arrange an appointment to personally visit you at the home or venue to work out the details.
What's required of you are:
Depending on the type of service you choose, we may require the following to be able to deliver our service.
A free space for the buffet table.
Access to a nearby kitchen sink area.
Access to a power point.
Domestic cooking facilities (Oven/Stove)
