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Neighbor's last-minute changes are driving me nuts with this costume design

I agreed to design a fairy costume for my neighbor's daughter's school play. She was super excited at first and gave me a rough sketch. But now, every other day, she texts me with new ideas or changes. Yesterday, she wanted glitter added, today she says no glitter because it might shed. I'm using my own fabric and time, and it's starting to feel like a mess. How do you deal with clients who can't make up their mind? I want to help but I'm losing patience. Any tips on setting boundaries or having that talk without hurting feelings?
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4 Comments
fionagreen
fionagreen3mo ago
From my own costume work, I've learned to schedule a final design meeting where all changes are discussed and approved in writing. I use a simple form where they initial each agreed-upon detail, like fabric choice and decorations. After that point, any new ideas become a separate project with added costs for materials and time. It helps to frame it as ensuring the best result for her daughter's play while respecting your own resources.
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joelburns
joelburns3mo ago
Set a final design deadline before you spend your own fabric... it helps.
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kimfisher
kimfisher3mo ago
That mom helping with her kid's school play isn't some big client needing a formal deadline.
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owens.anthony
My buddy's wife kept adding glitter until he charged her.
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