Dear Jenny,

I’ve been giving friends and family advice on interior decorating for free for years. They always ask about paint colors and furniture placement when I’m over. Now that I’m running an interior design business, how do I politely tell them that they need to pay me for my services?

Dear Interior Spaces,

I’ve been there, done that!

The most simple and polite way I told my friends and family to pay for my professional organization services when I started my business was this:

I’ve turned this long-time passion of mine into a business and would love to have you come on board as a new client of mine! Here are my rates and availability. Let me know when you want to get started and tell your friends too!

Instead of beating around the bush, ask for their business! Put a punchy twist on it. You’ll make things less awkward for you and for them.

You can also send an email to your friends and family and put a fun spin on the copy:

My shingle is hung. I’m building my interior design business folks! Here are a few photos of one of my most recent projects and the link to my website and rates. Would love to have you as a new client and for you to help me spread the word.

The best part is that they will cheer you, become paying clients and refer you to their friends.

What I learned is that as long as you’re giving the farm away for free, it will be thought of as free … that is, until you let people know that you are truly running a business and charge for your time.

Hope this helps!

Best,
Jenny

P.S. Join our new Facebook Group and pull up a chair!

Disclaimer: The advice given in this column is for educational, informational and entertainment purposes only. The reader is responsible for the outcomes of any actions and/or decisions made based on this advice.