How do y'all handle clients who say your prices are too high?!

I had a potential client slide into my DMs today asking about my rates for a custom blonding service. When I gave her my package price, she literally replied with, "Wow, never mind lol that’s way too expensive, a salon down the street does it for half that." I felt so defensive and didn't even know what to say. How do you respond to people like this without losing your temper or sounding desperate? I’m so sick of feeling like I have to justify my worth. How do we stop attracting these bargain hunters and find the clients who actually want to pay our rates?!

"Compared to what?" That’s the magic question. If they are comparing your custom, multi-step blonding package to a quick root touch-up at a budget chain, they are comparing apples to lawnmowers. Here is a strict copy-and-paste script I use when someone pulls the "the girl down the street is cheaper" line: "I completely understand that everyone has a different budget for beauty services! My rates reflect the cost of specialized, ongoing education, premium protective products, and the dedicated time required to safely achieve this look while maintaining the absolute health of your hair. There are definitely lower-cost options out there, but if you ever decide you want to invest in this specific, customized experience, my books are always open to you!" Keep it professional, wish them the best, and close the conversation. You aren't for everyone, and that is perfectly okay.

honestly if nobody is complaining about your prices, you’re charging way too little lol. losing 10-20% of random inquiries to price objections is completely normal for a luxury business. block the discount-chasers with a smile and leave the chair open for the clients who will literally tip you 20% on top of your base rate without blinking

i used to panic and lower my prices by $20 just to lock in the booking, and every single time i did that, those clients were the most critical, texted me at midnight, and complained about everything. the ones who pay full price cheerfully are always the sweetest and easiest to work with! boundary up