FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I ask for everything that the client is requesting (vendors, decor, venue, etc.) and, after all of the information is collected, I let the client know, roughly, how much the event will cost. If the client agrees to the cost, the following breakdown is how payments are made: For events more than a month in advance, I charge 25% of the total cost (nonrefundable), upfront, as a retainer and save the date fee, 25% at the midway point before the event, and the remainder a week before the event. For events less than a month in advance, I charge 50% of the total cost (nonrefundable) upfront as a retainer and save the date fee, and require the remainder the day of the event. The higher retainer fee for events planned in under a month is due to the extra costs incurred by vendors for short notices. If a client decides to cancel, a written cancellation notice is required immediately and at least 24 hours before the planned event. If a client cancels an event, the client is responsible for the pro-rated remaining fees. (ie: if a client cancels after they have paid the second 25%, they will be responsible for paying a pro-rated amount of the remaining fees due. This covers the hours spent working on behalf of the client) If I cancel for any reason outside of "acts of God", I will refund all monies paid to me up until the point of cancellation.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After a client contacts me via Thumbtack, I like to set up a phone call to get to know what, exactly, the client is looking for. If the client has pictures, I provide my email address to get a glimpse into what they're picturing. After I confirm what the client wants, I provide them with a contract that lists fees and policies and provide 3 days for the client to review, ask questions if needed, and sign the contract so that I can begin my services. Upon receipt of the signed contract, I will then send an invoice with the initial 25% retainer fee listed. Once the fee is paid, I begin working to create the best event possible!
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I began hosting small events about 15 years ago while in college. Since many of my college friends and associates were typical "struggling" students, I had to come up with creative ways to throw fabulous birthday parties/major announcement gatherings, etc. on a budget. As I started to hone my crafts, people began hiring me to host their bridal showers, baby showers, and anniversary parties. My first major event, of more than 100 people, was a silver anniversary party in 2006. It was THEN that I realized this is what I wanted to do.