Terms of Service

Last updated: 1 January 2025

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern the provision of private chef, catering, and cooking class services by Winston Thomas, trading as Chef Winston Thomas Private Chef Services ("Chef Winston," "we," "us," or "our"), based in Heemstede, North Holland, the Netherlands. By booking our services, you ("the Client") agree to the following terms.

1. Booking and Confirmation

All bookings begin with an inquiry through our website contact form, email, or telephone. After discussing your event requirements, Chef Winston will provide a detailed proposal including a custom menu, pricing, and terms specific to your event. A booking is confirmed only upon:

• Written acceptance of the proposal by the Client (email confirmation is sufficient)
• Payment of the required deposit, as specified in the proposal

Until both conditions are met, dates are held on a provisional basis and may be offered to other clients. We recommend confirming your booking at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, though we will accommodate shorter timelines where possible.

2. Payment Terms

Payment terms are as follows unless otherwise agreed in writing:

• Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total estimated cost is required to confirm your booking.
• Final payment: The remaining balance is due no later than 7 days before the event date.
• Additional costs: Any additional costs incurred due to changes requested by the Client after the proposal has been accepted (such as increased guest count, additional courses, or special ingredients) will be communicated in advance and invoiced separately.
• Payment methods: We accept bank transfer (iDEAL, SEPA) and other methods as agreed. All prices are quoted in Euros and include VAT where applicable.

3. Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change. The following cancellation terms apply:

• More than 14 days before the event: Full refund minus the non-refundable deposit.
• 7 to 14 days before the event: 50% of the total cost is due.
• Less than 7 days before the event: 100% of the total cost is due.

In the unlikely event that Chef Winston must cancel due to illness, emergency, or force majeure, we will make every effort to arrange a qualified replacement chef or offer a full refund including the deposit.

4. Dietary Requirements and Allergies

The Client is responsible for informing Chef Winston of all dietary requirements, food allergies, and intolerances for every guest at least 7 days prior to the event. Chef Winston takes allergies very seriously and will take all reasonable precautions to accommodate them. However, we cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment, particularly when cooking in the Client's kitchen or at third-party venues. Chef Winston shall not be held liable for allergic reactions where allergen information was not disclosed in advance.

5. Service Area

Chef Winston's primary service area covers Amsterdam, Haarlem, Zandvoort, The Hague, and surrounding areas in North and South Holland. Services outside this area are available upon request and may be subject to additional travel costs, which will be communicated and agreed upon before booking confirmation.

6. Venue and Facilities

When Chef Winston cooks at the Client's home or a third-party venue, the Client is responsible for ensuring:

• A clean, functional kitchen with adequate workspace, running water, and a working oven and hob
• Sufficient refrigerator and freezer space for ingredients
• Access to the venue at the agreed time for setup and preparation
• Adequate table and seating arrangements for guests

Chef Winston will arrive at the venue with sufficient time for preparation (typically 2 to 4 hours before service, depending on the menu). Kitchen cleanup after the event is included in all services unless otherwise specified.

7. Liability

Chef Winston carries professional liability insurance as required under Dutch law. Our liability is limited to the total value of the services booked for the specific event. We are not liable for:

• Damage to the Client's property caused by pre-existing conditions (e.g., faulty appliances)
• Allergic reactions resulting from undisclosed allergens or intolerances
• Delays or inability to perform services due to force majeure (natural disasters, severe weather, pandemics, government restrictions, or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control)
• Any indirect, consequential, or incidental damages arising from or related to our services

8. Changes to the Service

Minor adjustments to the menu may occur due to seasonal ingredient availability or supplier changes. Chef Winston will always ensure that the quality and character of the menu are maintained. For significant changes, the Client will be consulted in advance.

Changes to guest count must be communicated at least 7 days before the event. Increases of more than 10% of the original guest count may affect pricing and menu options, which will be discussed and agreed upon.

9. Intellectual Property

All recipes, menu designs, and presentation concepts created by Chef Winston remain the intellectual property of Winston Thomas. Photographs and videos taken during events may be used by Chef Winston for marketing and portfolio purposes unless the Client requests otherwise in writing before the event.

10. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Netherlands. Any disputes arising from or related to these Terms or the services provided shall be submitted to the competent court in the district of Noord-Holland, the Netherlands.

11. Contact

For questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:

• Email: info@chefwinstonthomas.com
• Phone: +31 6 0000 0000
• Location: Heemstede, North Holland, Netherlands