Overview Pricing is a delicate balance. You must reflect your skill, cover costs, and remain competitive. Here’s a deeper look at how to price confidently and preserve client loyalty. Key Insights Cost Calculation Expert Nuance: Factor in travel distance, high-end or luxury product usage (e.g., Charlotte Tilbury, MAC Pro), plus your brand experience. If you’ve been trained at top academies, emphasize your credentials. Real-World Example: MUA Heena in Bangalore charges a premium for HD foundation looks (₹2,000 extra) after noticing her specialized products cost more and her training in HD techniques sets her apart. Package vs. A La Carte Expert Nuance: For bridal bookings, consider a “Wedding Weekend” package covering 2–3 events. For smaller gigs, let clients pick from a list of add-ons (lashes, hairstyling, draping). Real-World Example: Delhi-based Arpita introduced a 2-event bridal package (Sangeet + Wedding) that bundles trials, touch-ups, and a free consultation. Her average booking value increased by 20%. Seasonal Adjustments Expert Nuance: Identify peak wedding months (often October–February in India) and consider a slight surge or early booking discount for off-peak months. Real-World Example: Kolkata-based Mohini charges a 10% premium in December, explaining it covers extended travel times and scarcity of slots. Clients appreciate her transparency. Transparent Deposits Expert Nuance: Implement a clear refund or partial-refund policy if cancellations occur within a certain window. Real-World Example: Shruti used to lose about 2–3 big bookings per season due to last-minute cancellations. After formalizing a 50% non-refundable deposit, she only had one cancellation in 6 months. Conclusion: Intelligent pricing and transparent deposit policies signal professionalism, help cover overheads, and ensure clients respect your time and expertise.