@Alison Johnson Hey Alison, just wanted to chip in here. My warehouse receiver is actually a couple of hours away from me, so I understand. But this works so well because my rep is super communicative to me throughout the entire time and is on top of everything. I couldn't find any local to me that would do everything this receiver does and funny enough, the local rates were pricier too. Plus, a lot of the local companies specialized more in simple moving. So I'd still reach out to the non-local receivers! As long as their process and cost makes sense to you, then that's all that matters. Make sure you have a go-to contact that is on top of everything and communicates with you consistently throughout the project.

I think a lot of it comes with experience and confidence too! But I totally understand what you mean. You can absolutely structure your payment however you see fit honestly. No matter what, I always recommend getting paid something before starting any work! If you're doing hourly, absolutely collect a retainer. If you're doing flat fee, absolutely collect a deposit. For me, I do furnishings projects mainly. So, I charge a flat fee for design + procurement and hourly for install, a bit of a hybrid structure. 50% in the beginning after signing the contract and the remaining flat fee balance is paid in full before the first full design presentation. I actually felt weary moving to this structure from hourly, but I honestly haven't received any pushback from this. This allows me to be properly compensated for the majority of the project ahead of time, but also space out payments for the client so they aren't fatigued with constant small invoices. I would prefer that my client pay the majority of my design fee in the beginning, so that there is a decent enough gap before they pay the BIG invoices back to back (furniture + shipping invoice). I also just don't like the idea of invoicing them my design fee shortly after that too lol. Also- I personally include up to three rounds of revisions in my flat fee. If my client decides to use all three revisions, and I didn't collect the remaining balance prior, then that means it can be a while before getting paid again. As we all know, clients can definitely drag their feet a lot and revisions take up a LOT of time if they are indecisive. Another random reason is because I've heard of awful horror stories where clients decided to terminate the project after they've received the designs. Basically taking them and using them to complete the project on their own without credit to the designer. 🥴 I think a lot of a client's trust comes from seeing your website, your portfolio, talking on the the discovery call and meeting at the consultation. All of that helps to build the client's trust and confidence in your work! (Sorry for the long comment lol)