Q: HOW IS THE FOOD PACKAGED?
A: A variety of containers are used depending on the food. During the initial consultation, we will discuss packaging options. Most containers are aluminum or plastic with recycling in mind. Most are microwavable, stackable, refrigerator/freezer-friendly, leak-resistant, durable and economical. Reusable Pyrex containers are also another option.

Q: ARE ALL THE MEALS FROZEN?
A: Most meals will be stored in your freezer but you may choose to have two to three entrees simply stored in the refrigerator if they are to be consumed within two to three days.

Q: DO I NEED TO BE HOME DURING YOUR VISIT?
A: It's absolutely up to you. Table Gatherings can make appropriate arrangements in advance to access your home. All access information will be kept in the strictest confidence.

Q: CAN I BE HOME WHILE YOU ARE COOKING?
A: Yes, and to be most respectful of your home and privacy, Table Gatherings makes every effort to focus on accomplishing many tasks during a short period of time. Discussions to plan for future meals are ideally held at the end of the cooking time or at another scheduled time. For safety reasons, Table Gatherings respectfully requests that the kitchen be child- and pet-free during scheduled cooking times.

Q: ARE YOU INSURED?
A: Yes. Table Gatherings has liability insurance through its membership with the USPCA .

Q: WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENS AND I NEED TO CANCEL OR RESCHEDULE MY SERVICE?
A: Table Gatherings requires a week's notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your service (emergency situations are an exception). If you plan on being away for several weeks, a minimum of two week's notice is requested.

Q: DO YOU OFFER GIFT CERTIFICATES?
A: Yes. Gift certificates are available and make a wonderful gift for many different occasions. Table Gatherings will work with you to develop the best gift option that fits your budget and the recipient's tastes and needs.

Q: HOW MUCH ROOM DO YOU NEED IN MY REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER?
A: Since most meals will be frozen for future reheating, about 60% of a standard freezer must be available for meal storage and at least one shelf is needed in your refrigerator. This may vary depending on the frequency of your service.

Q: DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING TO PREPARE FOR YOUR VISIT?
A: Please clear any dishes from the sink area, and create adequate space in the refrigerator and freezer, as noted above. If freezer items cannot fit, they will be left in the refrigerator for your reorganizing, which could effect the end result of the frozen entree. Counters should be completely clear, to allow ample space for food preparation.

Q: DO YOU HAVE TO COOK IN MY HOME?
A: Personal chefs operate out of their client’s kitchens instead of commercial kitchens. All food will be purchased and brought into an individual client’s home and prepared on-site.

Q: HOW MUCH TIME WILL YOU NEED IN MY KITCHEN?
A: Total cooking time depends on the service plan and menu options chosen, but on average, the service may take anywhere from 4-6 hours.

Q: DO I HAVE TO SIGN UP FOR A REGULAR SCHEDULE, OR CAN I JUST CALL YOU WHEN I NEED TO?
A: Table Gatherings is a service designed for people who are looking for a long-term meal solution. By choosing a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly cooking date you are ensured a regular place on the schedule.

Q: HOW MUCH WORK DO I REALLY HAVE TO DO TO SERVE THESE MEALS?
A: Most meat, poultry and side dishes are fully cooked; however, an item can be marinated in advance if you prefer to barbecue or roast it yourself that same evening. You may also prefer to cook your own pasta, while only a sauce is prepared for the freezer. If you are bringing home fresh fish that evening and simply want a sauce and some side dishes to accompany your entree that’s an option also, but all would have to be planned in advance.