[Tom Edgerton]

Julie--

There is a frame shop here that does the lion's share of my commissioned work, and they give me 20% on all frames on my account (I pay, the client reimburses me). They even give me the same deal if I bring in the client and the client pays directly--they keep a record and add that discount to the next job.

Lately, they've given me the same discount on my personal work. They also keep a portfolio of mine on their counter, and they regularly "talk me up" to their retail traffic. I've gotten a couple of commissions this way, and I've given them a finder's fee in return. It's less than what a broker would take out, and it makes everyone feel good.

Needless to say, I send them a Christmas card every year.

In short, the more you do with a given vendor, the more likely they'll give you an incentive to be a good customer.

Don't be afraid to ask...

--Tom