Why my retainers are nonrefundable (and what that really means)

I just wanted to take a moment to talk about something that sometimes feels awkward to bring up — nonrefundable retainers.

I completely understand that life happens. Kids get sick. Parents get sick.
Emergencies pop up at the worst times.
As a mom and business owner, I really get it.
I’ve had to reschdedule appointments and sessions before because my own kids got fevers, had a last minute appointment or injury. I really do understand.

But I also run a business. And this is my job. and while I really, really love my job. It’s still my job.

When you book a session with me, you’re not just reserving an hour on my calendar, I turn away other inquiries for that time. Other potentional income because your session filled the spot.
I arrange childcare. I prep the studio. I order props or backdrops if needed.

Your retainer secures that time.

Because of that, retainers are nonrefundable. BUT, I do allow one reschedule for sickness or emergency.
I want to give families grace — because I know firsthand how unpredictable life with little ones can be.

After that one courtesy reschedule, any additional rescheduling requires a new retainer — even if it’s due to illness.

That might sound strict, and I never want it to feel harsh. But here’s the honest truth: when a session moves multiple times, I still have to pay my sitter. I still block off that time. And I often can’t fill that last minute opening with another client.
Even if childcare wasn’t involved, I’m still losing the income that comes with booking someone else. And the time.

Small businesses don’t have the cushion that large corporations do. When a date is held, it’s held.

My policies aren’t there to be rigid or unkind. They’re there to protect my ability to continue doing this work — to keep serving families, showing up creatively, and supporting my own family too.

I care deeply about the people I photograph. I want your experience to feel smooth, joyful, and stress-free. Clear boundaries actually help me do that — because they allow me to show up fully without resentment, burnout, or financial strain. And I know I form real relationships with the families I work with but I can’t make exceptions.

Thank you for understanding that when you book with me, you’re supporting a real person, a real family, and a dream that I work hard for every single day.

And I am so grateful for that. 🤍