PSA: I used to think a client's 'vision' was more important than a contract

Three years ago, I did a full branding package for a cafe in Portland on a handshake deal, trusting their excitement. They ghosted me after delivery, leaving me out $2,800 and a ton of work. Has anyone else gotten burned by skipping the paperwork on a 'cool' project?

3 comments

3 Comments

dakotag267d ago

Honestly this happens way too often with creative work. People get caught up in the good vibes and forget that a contract is just a clear set of rules for both sides. It's not about not trusting someone, it's about making sure everyone is on the same page from the start. Learned that the hard way myself on a mural project that went south.

corap617d agoMost Upvoted

Tbh I feel this, @dakotag26. My first freelance gig was a handshake deal and I ended up getting paid in homemade jam. Good jam, but not great for rent.

the_laura6d ago

At least it wasn't bad jam.