We were discussing pricing awhile back. At least questions about price indicate getting PAID. Everyone I know thinks of me when it comes to any kind of fundraising, whether it be church, school, athletic, animal rescue, on and on. I usually donate prints for my closest friends, but for most I'll do a gift certificate for my least expensive portrait, knowing that most people will choose a larger size or more subjects. I figure it is work I wouldn't have gotten anyway and some exposure. It can be a little frustrating when you are asked over and over to give away your work in support of someone else's charity.
Every once in awhile, I'm the one who chooses to work for free. I always offer to draw a memorial portrait when someone dear to me has lost someone. It's a precious alternative to flowers that the family really appreciates. Sometimes I'm not sure whether to offer a portrait as a wedding gift, or if people would prefer a cash gift.
In today's blog I write about a time I was inspired to draw someone for free because he was so damn wonderful. Thanks so much to those who have takent the time to read my blog and for writing such kind messages to me.
http://www.pencilenvy.blogspot.com/2012/07/barry-henby-and-birthday-emergency.html
It was a beautiful weekend, hope you all had great shows!
Wendy
Comments
That's really smart marketing! I've been asked about home shows occasionally, and I almost always give a gift certificate to auctions. Sometimes it gets a little discouraging when I get three or four calls in a day asking for donations. It would be nice to get three or four paying customer calls instead!!! I give my portraits as gifts to good friends and I always draw memorial portraits when people close to me lose someone special. I've ended up with business as a result, so I see what you mean.
Wendy. Before I realized I was in the 'business' of making jewelry, I did a few 'free' things. First I polled my close friends about their favourite colours, etc. and made them a piece of jewelry. I told them, the first one is free. They all loved them and wear them all the time. I have had repeat business from each of them, and many of their friends. The 2nd thing - I held a party for a mom's group where they chose their colours, 'dropped' the paint, and ultimately designed their own piece. FREE. I've had repeat business from many of them. 3rd. I've hosted 3 home parties, where people can come and participate in the process of the design and creation. I always hold a draw. I've had repeat business from the winners. 4th. I have 3 annual silent auctions I contribute to. I haven't got any repeat business from them, but it does my heart good :) Thanks for posting.