Recently, we were referred to a really nice architect in the Boston area who was completing a rehab project.  He wanted to stage the units before they began marketing them so they would really shine.  We went through our usual process of getting a quote, visting the site, discussing the demographics of the likely buyer, and narrowing down the budget and installation dates.  We then began the process of selecting furniture and accessories to create a final quote and really get the process started.

What we did not know was that our client was secretly shopping us against a "budget" rental company we no longer shop with because of their less than scrupulous methods, typically damaged furniture, and eternal product selection process that takes about nine times as long as our preferred vendor.

What he kept stressing to me as I tried to get him to a final figure he could wrap his arms around was that he really liked MY work and wanted to work with me.  He said the other stager's work did not compare to ours.  In the end, I simply could not get him to a figure that competed with our budget competition.  I knew if I rented from the other company I could easily match the other stager's quote. 

But here's the problem. 

I have worked too hard establishing myself as a professional, challenging myself to keep up with trends and to deliver beautiful, compelling spaces to compromise myself.  As much as I really liked this client and totally sympathized with the fact that he was constrained by a budget I just couldn't allow myself to use product I do not believe in and put my company's name on it.

It was a tough call especially where the client was a referral.  But I did what I really felt I had to.  I explained to the client that I simply could not match his quote.  I explained why I choose not to use the other company and told him I really wanted to earn his business.  I have not heard from him since.  Certainly, I am sad to have lost a client but happy that I stayed true to myself and the vision that I have for my company and our reputation as a leader.