Policies

 

Welcome to Chartwell’s Catering Services at UMBC!

Our team—made up of full-time professionals, dedicated student staff, and a talented culinary crew led by Executive Chef Brian Ramono—is here to support your catering needs with care and attention to detail.

To make planning easier, we’ve created a selection of our most popular and frequently requested menu items. We encourage you to begin with these options, as they are designed to suit a wide range of events and preferences. If you don’t see something that fits your needs or have specific dietary requirements, our Catering Director will be happy to work with you to create a customized menu.

Whether you're planning a small reception or an elegant dinner, our catering staff is here to support you every step of the way. Every event is thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and tailored with your vision in mind.

Thank you for choosing Chartwells Catering at UMBC. We look forward to helping you create a memorable experience. Enjoy planning your event, and please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Booking Your Event Space

The first step in planning your event is reserving a room. UMBC offers a variety of event spaces to accommodate functions of all sizes. Once your room is booked, our catering team will be happy to assist with planning your food and beverage service.

To reserve an event space, please contact 410-455-3615. When making your reservation, be sure to specify any special requirements such as table and chair arrangements, AV equipment, podiums, or microphones.

Please note that Catering Services does not provide setup for tables, chairs, or AV equipment. However, we do ask that you share your floor plan and event itinerary with us during the booking process. This helps ensure we can coordinate food and beverage placement and service timing to align with your event schedule.

Placing Your Order

To help us best support your event, we kindly ask that you place your catering order 7–10 business days in advance. This allows us to ensure product availability and secure the appropriate staffing for your event.

To finalize your plans, please confirm all food and beverage details at least 5 business days prior to your event. This helps us coordinate staffing, order linens, and offer your menu at the best possible value.

Events booked with less than 5 business days’ notice are subject to a $75 late booking fee and, in some cases, may not be able to be accommodated.

For events that require more detailed planning—such as luncheons, dinners, or larger gatherings—we recommend reserving your date at least two weeks in advance.

Events outside our standard hours (Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM) may incur additional service fees depending on timing and staff availability.

Guest Count Guarantee

To ensure we prepare the right amount of food and provide the best service possible, please confirm your final guest count by at least 72 hours prior to your event. If we do not receive a final count by that time, we will use the number listed on your original order as the guarantee.

The guarantee is not subject to reduction after the deadline, and billing will be based on the final confirmed number. If your actual attendance exceeds the guarantee, we will do our best to accommodate the additional guests and adjust charges accordingly.

Off-Site Catering

The primary mission of Chartwells Catering at UMBC is to deliver exceptional service to the campus community.

Departments planning to utilize off-site catering services should be aware that delivery fees will be assessed based on distance, as well as setup and breakdown requirements.

We also work with off-campus groups when availability permits. For more info, call 443-612-8378. Off-site catering requires 72-hour notice.

Serviceware

Standard Disposables – $1.50 per guest
Includes eco-friendly plates and cups, accompanied by standard black plastic flatware.

Eco-Friendly Compostable Disposables – $2.00 per guest
All items provided will be fully compostable and environmentally friendly, including flatware.

Upscale Disposables – $3.50 per guest
Premium-quality disposable serviceware, ideal for events requiring a refined presentation.

 

Fees may vary based on event size and nature. For minimal service (e.g., cookies and drinks), charges may be reduced.

Final costs are listed on your Banquet Event Order (BEO).

Flowers, Linen, and China

Special flower arrangements available for an additional fee. Request in advance.

Linen for catering tables is included. Additional linens available for a fee:

  • Standard linen: $6.99 each
  • Rented linens: $35.00 each (custom options available)
  • Linen napkins: $1.50 each

China Rental (University Personnel)

Standard white China: $5.95 per guest (includes one plate, fork, knife, and glass).

Additional or upscale options are available by request and priced accordingly.

Late Arrivals, Cancellations and No-Shows

If you're running late, contact the Catering Director at 410-977-9622.

Cancel at least 48 hours prior to avoid charges. Cancellations within 48 hours may incur fees.

Drop-off and Delivery Fees

  • Disposable drop-off and setup  (no return): $25 flat fee
  • Drop-off with return pickup: fee based on guest count, distance, and timing

Maximum delivery charge: $100. Beyond this, a server may be assigned to support the event onsite (1 per 50 guests).

After-Hours Event Guidelines

To ensure smooth service and proper cleanup for events scheduled after regular business hours, please note the following:

Events with a removal time scheduled after 5:00 PM will be served on disposable trays for your convenience.You will be responsible for the cleanup and removal of the event materials. If you would prefer to have our team return to clean up after the event, we are happy to assist! Please note that an additional fee will apply based on the duration and size of the event.

If your event includes hot food, a catering attendant must be assigned to support your event.
These measures help us maintain quality service and ensure timely breakdown and sanitation. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Leftover Food

Due to Maryland Health Code, leftover food cannot be taken off-site. No containers will be provided.

All remaining food is the property of UMBC Catering and must stay on-site.

Payment

We accept payment via cash, check, credit card, or UMBC billing account.

 

UMBC Catering
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250
443.612.8378