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STIt is 2026. Stop telling clients you need a deposit to book your services.
What you are collecting is a retainer. A retainer is payment for your time availability and commitment to a specific date. It is not a placeholder and it is not a security hold.
Once a client pays a retainer you immediately reserve that date and remove it from your availability. You begin planning coordinating design sourcing materials and labor. Other potential clients are turned away because your time is now committed.
Because a retainer compensates you for time and opportunity cost it is non refundable. That is what makes it different from a deposit.
Using correct language matters. Calling it a retainer sets clear expectations protects your business and helps clients understand the value of reserving your time. The right clients respect this and move forward with confidence.
@standingoutandmore
