RESERVATIONS AND EVENT PLANNING
The first step in making arrangements for any event on campus is to reserve the space through the college's Office of Conference Operations and Events (641-269-3178). A confirmation number will be issued, and will be required when proceeding with catering arrangements. The next step is to contact Catering Services (641-269-3665) to get your catered event "on the books" and work with our Catering Coordinator on your specific needs. Events should be reserved and planned as far in advance as possible, to ensure availability of Catering Services and to allow for appropriate planning.
GUARANTEED GUEST COUNTS
When an event is booked, estimated counts will be required. A guaranteed guest count must then be submitted a minimum of 3 days in advance of the event. Grinnell College will be prepared to serve 5% above the guarantee, up to a maximum of 10 people. Charges will be based on the guaranteed guest count or the actual number of guests in attendance, whichever is greater. If no guarantee is made, the highest estimate received to date will be considered the guarantee.
CANCELLATIONS
On occasion, unforeseen circumstances dictate that a catered event be cancelled or rescheduled at the last minute. If this becomes necessary, Catering Services should be contacted as soon as possible. Because advance planning and preparation may already be underway, actual costs incurred may be billed if less than seven days' notice is given. Events cancelled within three days may be billed at 25%. In the case of cancellation due to weather, there will be no cancellation charge if the event is rebooked for a future date.
DELIVERY AND PICK UP
Catering Services is based in the college's beautiful Joe Rosenfield '25 Center, located in the center of the campus. Catered events located elsewhere on campus will be subject to a nominal $10 delivery charge, which includes pickup at a pre-arranged time. If additional pickups become necessary, additional charges may be incurred.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE
Under the direction of our award-winning Executive Chef, our professional culinary staff uses the finest and freshest ingredients available, and our capable and experienced catering staff is committed to providing the quality services that you desire. Contact Catering Services at 641-269-3665 to discuss menu options and pricing for your event. Standard menu offerings are available, as well as customized menus to meet whatever your needs may be. Special dietary needs, including options for vegetarians and vegans, may be accommodated with advance notice.
STANDARD EVENT TIMES
Two hours are typically allotted for breakfasts, luncheons, and receptions; three hours for brunches and dinners. Due to the increased staffing required, additional labor charges may be assessed if events exceed the standard time frames.
ALCOHOL SERVICE
Grinnell College Catering Services is fully licensed by the State of Iowa to serve alcoholic beverages. The College chooses to limit this service to wine and beer only. Other liquors may be provided on occasion with special permission for toasts or to uphold traditions. Catering Services is the sole provider of alcoholic beverages served at events - no outside alcohol is permitted. When a tended cash bar is desired at a campus location other than the College's Grinnell House, a minimum of one month's prior notification is required for approval by the College, the City of Grinnell, and the State of Iowa. Customers should be aware that such requests are not always granted. There will be no service of alcohol to individuals under 21 years of age. The Catering Supervisor also has the discretion to place further constraints on alcohol service in order to assure a safe and enjoyable event. The College requires that the host of a catered event where alcohol will be served provide a one million dollar liability insurance rider.
FOOD LEFT FROM CATERED EVENTS
Good planning and accurate guest counts help us to minimize overproduction and food waste. In addition, we take the responsibility of safe food handling seriously, to ensure that none of our guests are susceptible to food-borne illnesses. For these reasons, food ordered but not consumed at a catered event may not be removed from the function site. This policy is in compliance with health regulations, and is standard in the catering industry. Credit will not be issued for leftover or unused items.
AMENITIES (MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT, FLOWERS, DECORATIONS, LINENS)
Catering Services will be pleased to make arrangements or referrals for music, flowers, custom linens, or other amenities you desire.
NON-COLLEGE CUSTOMERS
Please note that any prices quoted do not include applicable taxes. In addition, a service fee of 20% will be added to all event billings.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING YOU!
We believe that each event, no matter how large or small, is important and we continually strive to do our very best in serving the campus community and guests in their catering needs. We appreciate the opportunity to contribute to your event by providing the premier catering services in the area. Thank you, and bon appetit!
Grinnell College Catering Services
1115 Eighth Avenue
Grinnell, IA 50112
(641) 269-3665
Scott Turley, CEC, Executive Chef and Chief Culinary Officer
Carolyn Harris, Catering Coordinator
11/2012
