Just because they can’t afford it doesn’t mean it’s overpriced

Whether you sell tacos, or towels, or piano lessons or earings, or photography or…. whatever, there is always going to be someone who thinks your work is overpriced.
But just because your work is outside of their budget, doesn’t mean it’s unfairly priced.
Read that again. And maybe one more time. Just because your work is outside of their budget, doesn’t mean it’s unfairly priced.

“Fast-fashion” and “hand-crafted” are very different beasts.  “Cookie cutter” and “bespoke” aren’t in the same world. “Mass produced” and “ethically practiced” cannot be compared. So what can you do if someone tells you that your work is overprices? First, remember:  You get to set your own prices. You get to set your own prices based on materials, time, intellectual property, the cost of living and so much more. Then consider: Is it selling out too fast? It’s time to raise your prices. Is it not selling at al? It’s time to make an adjustment - maybe price, maybe stronger marketing, maybe something else entirely. “But Rachel” you think, “I want to make a fair wage AND be accessible.” Me too!  And I’m pleased to share that there are ways to solve for that.

Some of my favorite solutions include:

work/trade
sliding scale
scholarship (or 1 for 1 buy : donate)
lower price point offerings
promotional specials
early access pricing
group membership…

and more!

BUT - remember: Your time is valuable. Your work i valuable. Just because someone can’t afford what you do, doesn’t mean it’s overpriced.