FAQ

How does the booking process work?: Soon after we receive your enquiry, we will contact you for an initial consultation. Consultations are offered to customers 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.
Is there a minimum catering order for all bookings?: Yes, all bookings are subject to a minimum catering order of $150 in food sales required, not including any delivery fees.
What is an average price range for a catered service from SHADES?: 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;

• Pick-up or
• 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 order.

If your event is on a desirable day, a holiday or weekend, we recommend booking at least a month in advance. If your event is during the week, we recommend booking at least 48 hours’ advance notice on all orders.
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 Shades 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
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?: No, we do not supply rental items. 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.
How far from Dandenong will you travel for drop-offs?: With advanced notice, we can deliver freshly prepared food platters to your doorstep.

‘SHADES’ serve most areas of Dandenong. However, we serve majority of our clients within a 7-mile radius of our café in Dandenong, with an additional fee for further mileage - subject to availability.
Do you charge delivery charges?: Yes. Deliveries can be made within a 7-mile radius of our café in Dandenong, with an additional fee for further mileage - subject to availability.

If you aren’t sure if your event fits in the above parameters, please feel free to contact us and ask!

With advanced notice, we can deliver freshly prepared food platters to your doorstep.
Can you custom prepare menus for an event?: 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.