Local rates (NYC)

Hi everyone,

Anyone from the NYC area willing to discuss rates? What I think sounds reasonable appears to be below the going rate (at least for those easily googled).

If you see what the one's easily googled charge than fall right around their range. I felt the same way when I started, but priced at their rates anyway and still had work from the first weekend that I opened business. They've been doing this for a while and there are probably reasons why they charge what they do in your area. Just go with it and if you find that you absolutely cannot make them work then go slightly below.

Don't forget that customers will value your work more if you charge a decent rate. In other words, some people will NOT want to hire you if you are too cheap because they will think you are "cheap" and not as high quality.

When I *raised* my rates from $65 to $80 my business increased. Ditto when I went to $100. People assumed I was worth more and thus more desirable, at the higher rates, I believe. Everyone has been happy! And this is in partially-rural PA!

Thanks for the incredible encouragement, guys. I was/am just concerned because being in one of most expensive cities in the country, high here is *high*. But while I'm far from where i aim to be, i have improved significantly over the last few months and thankfully, I spoke to my mom, who reminded me that I tend to underestimate myself.

Also, someone on a neighborhood parent listserv posted a request for birthday party entertainment, so my friend graciously put out a good word for me...and then to my surprise, another mom whom I don't know but was at the party I painted at last weekend seconded the recommendation. Then I got an email yesterday from someone who saw it and is interested in hiring me for May! Yay!
I emailed her my rates, etc, and just got this reply:

"Hi

Thank you for your prompt response.
This party may have a lot of kids so I'm trying to figure out how many (maybe 20) and how we can do face paint without causing a ruckus (lol).

I would imagine we'd have 1.5 hrs of your time but I will get back to you on this as I also need to find the exact time of the restaurant seating.

Thanks and I'll be in touch. "

Any advice on how to respond? Should I suggest a numbering system, etc?

FYI the kids will be all different ages and the party is at a restaurant.