Annette Frey says:

Thanks, this is really helpful Sarah. I have 2 new vendors I am having problems getting paid from, actually 3. I see I have to change how I do business with new accounts.

Home Office Mommy says:

Hey Sarah,

I am on the other end since my services are pre-paid. I have enjoyed the concept of paying for an item in increments before I buy it. It’s the old lay-a-way plan. It’s been a while since I’ve done it. What is taught me was how impulsive I was so that by the time it was time to take possession of the item I had lost interest. When something really matters I am thrilled and will even pay up faster to get it! Just another take on how to get paid, since so many are looking for freebies for freebies sake. I’m finding that the value of what I offer is not for everyone. Where there’s a will there’s a way.

Thanks for sharing as always… Believe well!

Julie Hiltbrunner, Silversmyth says:

I take layaway payments from customers that request it. It’s risk free for me. They can pay as often as they wish and the product is released to them after the final payment is made.

It doesn’t work for every type of business. But, because I sell one-of-a-kind sterling silver jewelry pieces, often customized to the customer’s specifications it works for my customer and me to accept layaway. I can have the item finished and be onto my next design while waiting for the final payments to come in.

Because it is custom jewelry, no one expect delivery before full payment is made. I will advertise that I take layway 4 months prior to the holidays because right before Christmas I always have a pile of orders lined up. People who are too late in contracting my services won’t be able to have me make that special gift because they didn’t have enough money available. But those who paid layaway can have their special gift ready and waiting on their final payment.