Policies and Procedures

Right of First Refusal

The College has the right of first refusal for all food and beverages served on campus. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this; contact Hospitality Services at (508) 793-2564.

Cancellation

All cancellations must be made four (4) business days prior to the event. Cancellations less than three full business days may result in charges to cover costs incurred.

In the case of impending severe weather, Hospitality Services will accept a verbal cancellation by 12:00 p.m. on the day before the event. Should the event be canceled after 12:00 p.m. the organization will be responsible for all charges as stated in the contract.

Food Allergies and Dietary Preferences

If you require information on potential allergens in the menu items, please contact us prior to your event. If you find that you need information during an ongoing function, please do not hesitate to ask any of our staff for assistance.

Vegetarian, gluten-free, and special dietary concerns can be made available to guests with sufficient advance notice. If the total number of dietary preference entrée exceeds 10% of your attendance, then the split menu charge will be added.

Final Guest Count, Guarantee, & Short Notice

The College of the Holy Cross requires the final guest count by 3:00 p.m. four (4) business days prior to your event. If the number of attendees increases after the guarantee is submitted you may incur an additional 20% charge on all meals over your guaranteed count.

For events requested with less than four (4) business days notice, a late fee of 20% will be charged.

Deliveries

Catered events that are located outside of the Hogan Campus Center will include upscale, premium paper goods and additional labor. A delivery charge will be added to all food and beverages. The charge will be a minimum of $25.00 and will not exceed $500.00.

Facilities Reservations

For internal (on campus) clients, prior to arranging your catering needs, please reserve the date and location of your function through the Event Management System (EMS).

For external (off campus) clients, please contact Hospitality Services at

(508) 793-2564. Hospitality Services will supply all food and beverages. Meal Service to groups less than 25 will incur a $50 service fee.

Meeting Rooms

Due to causes beyond our control; we may need to make reasonable substitutions in meeting rooms. When possible, substitutions will be of comparable quality.

Removal of Food and Accoutrements

In accordance with catering industry standards. guests may not take leftover food, beverages, or service ware from the function site.

Prices

All prices are subject to state and local meal taxes and 18% gratuity. Prices are subject to change due to market challenges and food substitutions.

Service Personnel

All events are 4 hours of service. Any event that extends past the 4 hour time frame will be charged an additional $30.00 per hour for each dining staff member required.

Decorations & Displays

All displays, decorations , or signage shall be subject to approval by Hospitality Services.

Specialty Events

Meal functions that are considered “Special Events” may require customized menus. The Executive chef will work with you to design a special menu. In certain cases, additional labor and equipment fees may be applied.

Discount for Internal Events

A 20% catering discount will be given to the College’s administrative departments, academic departments, and student organizations. This discount does not apply to special menus. In order to receive this discount, you must place your order in EMS at least ten (10) business days prior to your event.

Bar Policies

Beverage and liquor services are available as either a cash or host bar, and are subject to the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, City of Worcester ordinances and College policies. One bartender will be assigned per 100 guests. A $150 set-up fee applies to all cash bars inside the Hogan Campus Center. A $250 set-up fee applies to open bars outside of the Hogan Campus Center building. A $150 set-up fee applies to open bars with less than 50 guests.

There is a minimum sales requirement for both cash and open bars of $200 per bartender. If the sales requirement is not met there is a $100 charge per bartender