Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the order and pickup process?

A: We offer convenient pickup in Marion Oaks and pickup in other parts of SW Marion County FL by arrangement. Please select your preferred neighborhood when ordering and we will contact you to arrange exact date, time and location of pickup.

Same-day pickup is not guaranteed. For time-sensitive orders, please order early or email us at orders@thefriendlyoven.com before placing your order.

Q: What’s the difference between “allergen-free” and “allergy-friendly,” and which do you offer?

A: Allergen-free means the food is produced in a facility that never handles the specified allergen and, if required by law, has undergone the inspections required to make those claims. Allergy-friendly means the food was produced in a facility that is either known to handle certain allergens or has not undergone inspection, but strict procedures are in place to minimize cross-contact.

We offer allergy-friendly options, using screened ingredients and strict procedures to reduce cross-contact.

We cannot guarantee the complete absence of any allergen. Our products are not recommended for individuals with severe allergies and are consumed at the customer’s own risk.

Q: What are your allergy-friendly and food safety practices?

A: We operate as a Cottage Food Operation in accordance with Florida state law and comply with all required and recommended food-handling practices. Our allergy-friendly practices follow FoodAllergy.org guidelines, which includes never preparing allergy-friendly and non-allergy-friendly products at the same time and the use of dedicated equipment (e.g. mixing bowls, utensils and pans) where possible. The only shared equipment is our ovens and dishwasher, as allowed by those standards.

Q: Do you take custom or off-menu requests?

A: Yes! We consider custom orders based on ingredient availability and lead time. Prepayment may be required. Custom items may not be eligible for refund or replacement.

Q: What if there’s a problem with my order?

A: If something isn’t right, please let us know — we want to make it right.

• If we fail to meet a promised pickup or delivery time, we’ll offer a refund or discount.
• Quality issue or defect? We’ll provide a refund or replacement.
• Not defective but didn’t love it? Contact us — we’re happy to talk about options.

We may ask for the return of an unused portion for evaluation. Our liability is limited to the purchase price.

* We are not responsible for damage after pickup or delivery, including third-party handling, theft, or exposure to heat, weather, or improper storage.