I think I've already decided how I'm going to handle this situation-but this is something that everyone may have experienced in the creative world, but I would like to know: how would you or did you handle it?
I have a customer that brought me her mother's antique metal shank buttons about a YEAR ago, along with a photo of a finished charm chain type bracelet, and said "Make this for me with these buttons". So I did. I charged her $35.00 for the extra supplies (the chain, clasp, jump rings, etc) and of course, my time. She took it, thanked me, and I didn't hear from her again until JUNE. She brought the bracelet back, and said she decided she didn't like how it hung (keep in mind the buttons are METAL) and could I possibly find another solution. Well, ladies (and any gents) - I've been attempting to find another solution ever since. I even purchased a BOOK specifically for BUTTON jewelry, and have met with her at least 3 times for design approval. Every time she would say, "Still not what I was going for" and leave me to try, try again. I have also purchased other supplies in that attempt as well - heavier chain, memory wire, bigger rings, to no avail. She just could not be pleased. Meanwhile - I have my shop and other customers, my Etsy shop, shows to prepare for, blogs to write and life to live. I decided as of yesterday, that I could no longer try to please this woman. So I left a pleasant message apologizing that I hadn't come up with any new ideas, and that I was giving her buttons back. She immediately called back and asked for a refund.
I have decided to give her a PARTIAL refund - but feel the materials and TIME that I have spent, not to mention the fact that she had the original piece for about 6 months before she came back with it, merit that I still be PAID for some of it. What would you do in this situation?
2 comments:
I have to say I would not give any refund.I'd point out the time you spent & book you bought exceded what you charged, not to mention you did deliver a finished product that she wore until she changed her mind.
She came and picked up her buttons and partial refund today. Didn't make a peep. Probably the last I'll see of her, though. Oh well.
I found a picture of the original bracelet in my photo file - I may post it. I think I'm glad I have it-at least to prove that there WAS a workable bracelet at one time....
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