How to Respond to Gift Collabs

I KNOW THIS HAPPENS MORE OFTEN THAN WE’D LIKE — so I’m ripping a page off my *e-mail response database* to share a foolproof way of responding.

This response helps you stand in your worth (a #win even if you hear a “no” back), while also remaining professional and responding with a little transparency & humanity (something the space lacks).

PS: WHO STRUGGLES WITH FINDING THE “RIGHT” WORDS TO RESPOND? LMK BECAUSE I MAY OR MAY NOT BE COOKING UP SOMETHING FOR YA! 👇🏼

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Hi [contact],

Thank you for the opportunity!

At this time, my business is only able to accept formal and paid campaigns. This is how I am able to be fairly compensated for the value of my endorsement and sustain the resources to make the content quality I provide with these partnerships.

My rate for this project is [$price]. Is there any room in your budget to accommodate, or is there something you are more comfortable with? Happy to create a package for you that aligns with that budget in mind.

If not, I totally understand and wish you the best of luck. Hope we can find a way to work together in the future.

Thank you,
[your name]