I need some advice please!

So I have been doing the boat races on Sundays for the passed three weeks. The head of the assoc. sent me this e-mail today.

"Good Morning, I have been trying to help the best I can, I did hear a few comments that other venders are paying for their table and we have not charged you. I think we have to at the big Barnegat race this weekend. What do you think you can afford"

That was it. Last week I left with $33 before putting out for gas. The week before I made $150, and donated to Autism for Awareness which was the original agreement. That I wouldn't be charged a renter fee, because I would instead donate to the charity that week.

What would you say back...I don't want to lose the job, but I think it's a little weird sending me that two days before the race...

I would be polite as possible- first thank them for the opportunity to paint and be a part of their event. Then point out that you have 'paid' for your table before as agreed upon and will certainly do again if this is what is asked of you.

I'd then ask to do a percentage instead of a flat fee because of how much it fluctuates and that in comparison in many other booths, what you have to paint in order to make they could make just selling product, does not always make it fair with a flat fee.

And they should've already talked to you about fee long time ago. Maybe along with this, its time to put a contract in place so they can't suddenly change their minds on you again.

I hope it goes well! I always try to be as nice as I can with awkward situations like this.

If you think the spot is worth the stay; you dont want to lose your spot. So therefore you should pay the money. Think of it as a favor they was doing for you. Repay the favor while still representing you face painting business.

Of those that have made comments are they aware of the charitable donation? I would say that it was not your original agreement and as this is quite late in the day so wouls like to stick to the original arrangement this weekend and then agree anothe rone for future events. Perhaps agree to a % of your profit! (not takings). I would then suggest that you write up a new contract which will cover how ever many months you would like to without to stop any more last minute changes.

It all depends on whether it is a good gig or not. Would you be able to get something else at such short notice.

I would remind them about the agreement you had with them and how you did donate money to Autism awareness.

If you don't want to lose the gig, maybe you could suggest giving them so much per face painted as a way to pay your rental fee (50c or $1 a face?) That way you at least wouldn't be out of pocket if it's not busy.

I think if the agreement was donation and you made the donation you have done your part. I would email them the agreement you had and let them know you have already paid your dues and making another payment now would be like paying twice. If you have it on an email already maybe highlight the donation part and attach your own comment stating you were unaware of another cost to you and dont have time to up your prices to afford another fee. The other vendors had the time to fix in the cost of the table in their products and this last minute cost is unfair for you to change your set up and pricing info. Maybe say next time I would be more then happy to pay for the table and will adjust your prices accordingly with more notice.

Good luck! Pricing and fees are so tricky with face painting!

Smells fishy. Did you tell any of the other vendors that you did not pay a fee? If not how did they know? (and really, what buisness is it of theirs anyway!) I think the organizers are just regreting their original agreement and now want a piece of the pie. You should send them a copy of the original agreement. Say that you would be happy to pay the percentage of your profit to the organizers directly (rather than the charity) if they wish. But I wouldn't change the amount, just offer to pay it to them instead.

My question is....why do the other vendors know who has paid..and who hasn't? This is no one's business but yours and the event. If they let it slip, then it isn't your fault...and you should not be penalized. Of course you need to approach it nicely...but...it sounds like there are nosy people at work who should mind their own business.

LOL @ Geek...we posted at the same time!!!

I e-mailed her back and suggested 10% of profit, but that I do not think I should have to donate. I sent her a new agreement, and the signed agreement back today. She seemed ok with it...I just hope this one sticks...

For events like this I explain I am a draw to the client. I'd work out a percentage of what you earn(not including tips, but only paid services). I'd give them 10%-15% tops. Explain that since you are providing a service & not a product you are limited on how much you make by how many faces you can paint in the time you are there. If you're not making much, advertise like crazy. Get your cards into hands, have your appointment book on hand & be prepared to book jobs on the spot. You made $150 & $33 so far(how many hours?). These types of jobs are great as you start out, but you'll find the really good paying jobs come from parties, events, corporate jobs, large festivals, etc. I did them in the beginning, but found they weren't worth my time & efforts on most occasions.

Linda I am there for about 3 1/2 to 4 hours...I have been pushing my cards left and right. I make everyone take one. I have been looking into advertising I'm just not sure where to just yet....