Projects are usually based on a flat fee. It is very difficult to provide an hourly estimate - time estimates are usually too restrictive. We rarely charge by the hour. Instead, you will always get a firm written Project Estimate before any work commences.
We do not work for free for anyone.
We do not work on "spec" jobs. However, there might be exceptions for well-established, existing clients.
We believe in stating our billing policies as simply as possible and openly to avoid future misunderstandings.
Compare our prices with others if you like. We provide value for your money and stand behind all our work.
The job is not done until you are satisfied with the work that was promised on your Project Estimate.
Credit & Payment Terms
Minimum Charges: Our minimum fee for any new custom creative is $250.00, unless stated otherwise.
Project Estimates: Prior to beginning work, we will provide you with a written Project Estimate. All fees and costs are estimated and valid for 30 days, unless specified otherwise. Changes in the scope of work and/or project specifications may require a revision to the original quote. Any revision of this quote must be approved in advance by both parties, and will be reflected in the Final Invoice (also see Client Changes below). Project Estimates will be emailed (PDF) or delivered to you in person.
We cannot and will not proceed without authorization in writing. You will always be provided a written Project Estimate before we commence with a project. The Project Estimate must be signed before a project is started. The person authorizing a job (signing the Project Estimate) is declaring that he or she is a signing officer of the firm and is authorized to make such agreements and that the firm or individual will honor the agreement.
Email Authorizations: This option is for well-established, existing clients only. To expedite a project, you can send us an email approving and authorizing us to proceed with the project as stated in your Project Estimate. Then you must mail us the original "signed" Project Estimate with your Deposit Payment.
Commencement of Work Date: This is the date in which we are given authorization to begin work on your project, which is either the date the Project Estimate is signed or the date we received your Email Authorization.
Client Changes: You will always be advised of any additional costs in advance. Corrections and revisions are free of charge, unless: the requested revision(s) deviate from the original "approved" creative parameters of the Project Estimate; and/or, there are excessive copy changes in the project. These are classified as the client's changes and are billable.
Turnaround / Rush Charges: Standard turnaround for initial concepts or designs (1st draft comps or proofs) is typically 5-10 business days from client approval of quote (payment of deposit or commencement of work date) unless notified otherwise in advance. Actual turnaround depends on scope of project and current workload. Upon approval, we will provide a specific date when you can expect to receive initial design concepts. If you need faster turnaround, rush charges will be applied accordingly. In any case, we will provide you with a detailed, written Project Estimate.
Final delivery is dependent on client turnarounds and final approvals. We recommend that you provide a minimum of 10 business days prior to your materials deadline in order to avoid rush charges.
Discounts: We often are asked for discounts because "there will be a lot work in the future." If that's the case, then we will discuss discounts in the future. In the meantime, we'll do the first 3 projects at the normal rate which other clients pay (also see Monthly Retainer).
Monthly Retainer: One exception where a discount might apply, would be to contract us by means of a Monthly Retainer, where the client commits to a long-term project commitment (minimum 6 month increments) at an agreed upon monthly rate.
Payment of Deposit: All jobs require a 50% deposit on commencement of work as described in the written Project Estimate you are provided. Please note that we cannot begin work until we have received your deposit.
Balance
Due (whichever occurs first):
- The balance is due upon submission and approval of the final proof(s);
or,
- The balance is due 30 days after the "commencement of work date." This payment
schedule is to prevent projects from dragging on. When this happens it actually
increases our work substantially because we have to reconstruct our thinking
and all the steps taken earlier. It is much more efficient to start and finish
a project in a timely fashion. Legitimate delays can be negotiated.
Final art will only be released to the client upon receipt and bank clearance of the final payment in full. This means final payment should be made by a valid company check, certified (cashier's) check or wire transfer direct to our account.
Final Statement/Invoice: Upon approval of the final proofs, or 30 days after the commencement of work date, you will receive a final Statement/Invoice showing payment(s) that have been made and the balance due.
There are very rare exceptions to the Payment of Deposit and Balance Due requirements, as stated above. If your project is one of these rare exceptions, you will be provided a detailed addendum to the above terms, which will be included in your written Project Estimate(s).
Credit card payments are not accepted at this time. However, if this is your only possible method of payment, special arrangements can be made.
Cancellation Fee: A cancellation fee of 50% of the Project Estimate (equal to your deposit paid) will be charged on all projects cancelled once work has begun.
