Thanks for sharing your story JJ. You didn’t have to “out” yourself as the person I mentioned. 🙂 But I’m glad the advice you got from everyone helped. I think it’s a smart idea to keep the lines of communication open. You never know.

Unfortunately, you’ll get someone who knows someone who knows you and they’ll ask for a big favor. In these cases, I have to put a clamp on it and give them ideas for raising the money for my services (asking relatives, etc., payment plan, etc) I have bills to pay, mouths to feed and a roof to keep over our heads just like everyone else and that’s the reality of it.

It all ebbs and flows with who your target clients are and what they’re willing to pay. You can’t walk into a Lamborghini dealership with $20,000 and expect a Lamborghini. There’s the Toyota dealership down the street for that. It’s not a new exotic car, but at least it’s a car. 🙂

Always love getting your input Michelle. thanks. As you so correctly pointed, so many other sources tell people to haggle and negotiate. It’s up to us to educate in patience.

Thanks.

Most of what we do in the sales process is educate people. This is an opportunity to educate the potential client. How would they know that this isn’t cool? So much of what is ‘out there’ tells them that they need to try to haggle their wedding vendors. Be patient and use the opportunity to talk about the value that your service brings.

I don’t think discounts should ever be offered ‘just to make the sale’. It’s better to throw in something (a freebie) than it is to discount your services. Discounting is only devaluing the work you do.

Love what you say about being flexible about payment… spreading out payments is a great option!

Lastly, be careful where you air your grievances. Negativity breeds negativity and people will steer clear of your energy. With social media, you never know who’s watching. I’m always hesitant to refer a wedding pro who talks badly about their clients, regardless of whether the pro or the client are in the right.

Great post, Ron!

I learnt in my past 7 years in the event video biz that I need to have some flexibility. If I am lack of gig, I could always custom quote a package to fit the 2,000 amount. I dun have to give everything but may include just the essential. I use to be very firm and at the end I found out that i have less gigs and I don’t have enough to pay the bills.

I believe everyone’s market is different and so is the stage of their business. Importantly, we must not short change ourself no matter which stage or market we are at.

Awesome advice Clint. That’s actually a really good point too. Some people feel like they have to stick with there official “packages.” Obviously, if you’re in the event business and it’s a popular day, you may not want to give it up to a lower paying gig, but if that’s not the case, or if it’s a day that you know won’t get booked (e.g. a week from the time the prospect cals your), then offer a reduced custom package.

Thanks for sharing.