I, like you, have been flaked on (or, in the case of a deposit, ripped off) enough that I will never give a deposit.

I completely respect the need of some ladies to require a deposit.  Especially if travel is involved.  I can't imagine a lady travelling to see a guy without getting a deposit.   It's why I only book with ladies who are local or already have their tours planned.  

I would never try to convince someone to change their policy.  That's as low as trying to get someone to lower their rate.  I simply don't try to engage the ladies that require a deposit.

There are plenty of ladies that don't require deposits, and there are plenty of guys that are happy to pay deposits.  We can all find people that fit our needs.

You have the pussy so you make the rules.
I have the money, so I make the rules.  

Both statements are true.  

Re: I require a 50% deposit to book.

Great response and exactly why it has become more imperative. Thank you Madame Patricia for your input, I'd like to expand my travel base etc but not without deposits first I won't. I want to be sure I am not going to be sitting on my hands.

I think this has made things much easier for me to decide

Xo,
Grace

Paypal, money order, greendot cards, just to name a few.

Deposits are tricky.  We ladies need to them to
1. guarentee the client is going to show up!  W/O a dpeosi tit's pretty much 60-40.
2. cover the myriad of expenses we incur, which clients don't even think about.

I explain the deposit situation by saying I can't be the only one who puts skin in the game.  They usually can relate to that expression.
Also, my deposit policy is in my reivews.  I think that helps.  And I have never cancelled once I have a depoist.  So it works all the way around, for everyone...it seals the deal.  
Once I have a deposit, that time belongs to that client, even if a bigger appointment comes up, or I have to go through hell or high water to get to where I commited to being.

My two cents
xoClair
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