Policies

Welcome to The Gathering by Chartwells

There are both big decisions and little details to attend to as you prepare for your upcoming catered event. Let The Gathering by Chartwells guide you, from designing the perfect menu to personalizing all the details of your unique gathering. Our catering services can accommodate any size, theme, or individual requirements, in virtually any location – on or off campus.

We’ll work with you to create a custom gathering menu inspired by your unique needs that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. All menus will follow the Chartwells culinary philosophy; authentic recipes using the freshest, seasonal ingredients.

Waiter service, buffet, small plates and international inspired specialty stations: all served in your style! And because you’ve entrusted your event to The Gathering by Chartwells, the food will be unmatched, the service spectacular, and the event will be unforgettable!

Plan Your Event

Welcome to the Gathering by Chartwells! Our mission is to provide you with exceptional quality service, and a creative cutting-edge culinary experience. Our professional staff is available to assist in planning your special event Monday - Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Please contact our Catering Coordinator for customized service and menus.

Policies & Procedures

To ensure optimal selection and the best possible service, we kindly ask that events be booked at least three business days in advance. We understand events arise unexpectedly and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Guest Counts

We kindly request a confirmed number of guests be specified three business days prior to the event. This number is considered the guaranteed guest count.

Delivery/Pick-Up

All orders can either be picked up in the Wellness Center or delivered to any reserved room on campus. Delivery orders of less than $100 will be subject to a delivery charge of up to 100% of the cost of the order. It is recommended that small orders be picked up at the Wellness Center.

Cancellation

We kindly request that cancellations be made five business days prior to the contracted event date. Events cancelled in less than five days will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.   Events cancelled in less than 48 hours will be charged the full amount of the event.

Linen

Tablecloths are supplied for all food and beverages service tables at events. Tablecloths for non-food tables are available for an additional $5.00 each. We carry 85x85 and 52x114 in Black or White. Pricing for specialty linen is available upon request.

China and Silverware

  • Reception/banquet/Plated 3.75 per person
  • Coffee/ Beverage only 2.50 per person
  • Full Compostable 1.50 per person

  • Billing & Payment

    A form of payment is kindly requested three business days prior to the event date. All Invoices that are being paid through the school, we ask please only confirm (Proceed to Checkout) once the budget for the P.O. has been approved for future invoicing through Catertrax.

    Special Diets

    Special diets are accommodated upon request, we kindly request that any dietary restrictions be submitted as soon as possible.

    Attendants

    We suggest the following guidelines when planning your event:

  • Staff member for every 30 guest for buffet events charged at an hourly rate of $22.00 per hour with a 4 hour minimum, including set up and tear down.
  • Staff member for every 12 guest for served events charged at an hourly rate of $22.00 per hour, including set up and tear down.
  • Chef attendant will be charged at a flat rate of $150.00 for 4 hours for all action stations, hand crafted stations and off-site events

  • Booking Outside of Business Hours

    If an event is booked outside of business hours during a holiday. And/or off season hours additional staffing charges of $22.00 per hour will be applied per staff member.

    Food Removal Policy

    Due to health regulations, leftovers may not be removed from any event space to protect our campus community. Items purchased for pick up should be properly stored prior to the event and remains/disposed of by the event host. We appreciate your understanding with this policy.

    Room Reservations

    When booking your event, please ensure you have reserved your room for the event 48 hours in advance through EMS. We unfortunately cannot reserve a room on your behalf. Please note, upon booking a room, remember to include any tables for food / additional set up by placing a facilities work request.

    Contactless Catering

    Due to the recent outbreak of the COVID-19 Pandemic, we are offering contactless catering options.  In order to reduce movement of catering staff on campus, these items will be available for pick-up in the Wellness Center.  Menu items are priced with this in mind.  If you choose to have your order delivered, it will be subject to a 20% charge.

    Chartwells at Florida Poly
    4700 Research Way
    Lakeland, FL 33805
    615.593.9543