Re: Business question

[Guest guest]

Are you concerned with Zoning Laws in your area? How big a production

are you planning? I'm a Tax Consultant (boorrring!) and can help with

Hobby vs Business. You sound more like Hobby, and can pretty much do

whatever ya want, especially if the Business Zone Dept of your city

responds that way.

The ol' standard attorney/tax consultant response applies here:

" It depends "

Barb J

On Wed, 09 Aug 2000 17:33:29 -0400 Mark & Michele Lesko

<mud8@...> writes:

> I have a business question that I would appreciate someone asnwereing

> even it is anonomously or privately. I have been making glycerin

> soaps

> and bath bags and giving them away or selling them here or there to

> friends but had wanted to start selling and making some money etc.

> From

> what I understand making soap either by glycerin melt and pour or

> the

> " real " way is still considered manufacturing. Most zining laws if

> you

> do manufacturing do not allow you to work out of your house and to

> rent

> a commercial space to manufacture something (that I do mostly for

> enjoyment ) would cost an arm and a leg. Now what do all of you do?

> If I

> maight ask I spoke to this one man who literally laughed off the

> phone

> when I described to him the volume I was interested in doing. I

> merely

> was just trying to get prices and avenues to go . Zoning laws are

> different everywhere but as soon as you say soap or manufacturing

> all

> he** brakes loose.The man on the phone suggested I just do it in my

> basement until someone says something , which is ok unless the fines

> are

> more thatn the bar of soap you are selling. I feel very dissapointed

> and

> feeling like I am at a dead end with something I really enjoy doing

> and

> wanted to continue and expand.

>

> mud8@...

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi!

Sorry, but I just have to jump in on this one.....

Anyone considering opening a business, even if you're just doing craft fairs,

should FIRST have all business licenses in place and by all means GET

INSURANCE!! (A lot of the craft fairs have people from the city tax dept.

who come around to make sure you have the correct licenses before you even

open up.) Even if you're giving your soaps away to others than family, all

it would take would someone to get a case of the terminal heebee jeebies,

trace it back to your bar of soap, and everything you own would be theirs,

with a good lawyer. It's worth the $210.00 per year charged by an insurance

company to cover your butt, and keep your worldly posessions.

Please, if you're going to go into business, do it correctly! Taking a

small business management class at a community college wouldn't be a bad idea

either!

Remember the old saying that goes " If it's worth doing, it's worth doing

right " ?

Well, this is one of those cases! This will be your business...people will

know you by how well you run your business... Make sure it's the image

you're looking for....

Robyn Abels

Camelot Creations Goat's Milk Soap, Inc.

(who is now stepping down off the soap box, and going back to lurkdom...)

[Guest guest]

Hi. Wish I had an answer for you, but I'm in the same boat. I've been

reading all the emails on toiletries and I'm getting more and more confused

and just a little bit wary. I know people that make soap out of their home

and no one has said anything. My question is, is there any benefit to

getting a sellers permit? Most websites don't say much about needing one to

order soap making supplies from them, so I don't know. And since I want to

start out selling at craft fairs, do I really need one? Also, I've been

reading all the mail on listing ingredients, and have gotten the impression

that you have a choice as to listing or not listing. Am I reading right?

As you can read, I'm a newbie at this. And I have to say some of you more

" experienced people " scare the he** out of me with all the technical and

legal stuff. And what about insurance in case someone hollers? Is that

something to consider, or is it too expensive for a beginner like me?

Especially since I'm not going to be doing this on a " global " scale.

business question

> I have a business question that I would appreciate someone asnwereing

> even it is anonomously or privately. I have been making glycerin soaps

> and bath bags and giving them away or selling them here or there to

> friends but had wanted to start selling and making some money etc. From

> what I understand making soap either by glycerin melt and pour or the

> " real " way is still considered manufacturing. Most zining laws if you

> do manufacturing do not allow you to work out of your house and to rent

> a commercial space to manufacture something (that I do mostly for

> enjoyment ) would cost an arm and a leg. Now what do all of you do? If I

> maight ask I spoke to this one man who literally laughed off the phone

> when I described to him the volume I was interested in doing. I merely

> was just trying to get prices and avenues to go . Zoning laws are

> different everywhere but as soon as you say soap or manufacturing all

> he** brakes loose.The man on the phone suggested I just do it in my

> basement until someone says something , which is ok unless the fines are

> more thatn the bar of soap you are selling. I feel very dissapointed and

> feeling like I am at a dead end with something I really enjoy doing and

> wanted to continue and expand.

>

> mud8@...

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you, thank you, thank you all. If I've learned nothing over the

years, it's that it's best to do things right the first time. And please

don't apologize for jumping in. I asked for advise and that's what I

wanted. Guess I'll check with my home owners ins. first and see what they

tell me and go from there. I've had the sellers permit application for some

time. Just trying to decide what to put on the dang thing. You'd think the

questions would be straight forward but like everything else government,

they probe. And just when I thought I had everything figured out, they

changed the form! Oh well, life goes on. And I really do appreciate the

information you all have given me. Did I say thank you? God Bless, Deby

Re: business question

> Hi!

>

> Sorry, but I just have to jump in on this one.....

>

> Anyone considering opening a business, even if you're just doing craft

fairs,

> should FIRST have all business licenses in place and by all means GET

> INSURANCE!! (A lot of the craft fairs have people from the city tax dept.

> who come around to make sure you have the correct licenses before you even

> open up.) Even if you're giving your soaps away to others than family,

all

> it would take would someone to get a case of the terminal heebee jeebies,

> trace it back to your bar of soap, and everything you own would be theirs,

> with a good lawyer. It's worth the $210.00 per year charged by an

insurance

> company to cover your butt, and keep your worldly posessions.

>

> Please, if you're going to go into business, do it correctly! Taking a

> small business management class at a community college wouldn't be a bad

idea

> either!

>

> Remember the old saying that goes " If it's worth doing, it's worth doing

> right " ?

> Well, this is one of those cases! This will be your business...people

will

> know you by how well you run your business... Make sure it's the image

> you're looking for....

>

> Robyn Abels

> Camelot Creations Goat's Milk Soap, Inc.

> (who is now stepping down off the soap box, and going back to lurkdom...)

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

According to my cousin, who owns his own salon, they are required to have the

towels cleaned by a service, per health department regulations. I knows some

salon owners wash them, but that is in violation.

>

> Anyone here in our IPADD family who is good at folding hand towels into neat

squares? Have you thought about approaching your local hair salon (smaller

probably better than a large chain) and explore them paying for a pick up/drop

off daily or weekly towel laundering service? How did that go? I'm considering

it and wonder what the down sides would be.

>

> At the big chain salon I used to go to, they had the 'assistants' doing all

the grunt work, which included laundry & folding using their onsite machines.

So that didn't work out because they already had people onsite doing the work.

But I'm wondering now about the smaller places. Thoughts?

>

> Laurie

>

>

[Guest guest]

Laurie,

Our HS Co-op education program had a deal with a local health club to do just

what you are talking about. The kids would not just fold the towels but hand

them out to patrons as they went into the locker room. Don't know if they are

still doing this (it was 9 or so years ago when I talked to another parent about

this) but......

Marie

> >

> > Anyone here in our IPADD family who is good at folding hand towels into neat

squares? Have you thought about approaching your local hair salon (smaller

probably better than a large chain) and explore them paying for a pick up/drop

off daily or weekly towel laundering service? How did that go? I'm considering

it and wonder what the down sides would be.

> >

> > At the big chain salon I used to go to, they had the 'assistants' doing all

the grunt work, which included laundry & folding using their onsite machines. So

that didn't work out because they already had people onsite doing the work. But

I'm wondering now about the smaller places. Thoughts?

> >

> > Laurie

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

My cousin told me the reason for the rule is because some salons would just

throw the used towels in the dryer and then use them again.

>

> Anyone here in our IPADD family who is good at folding hand towels into neat

> quares? Have you thought about approaching your local hair salon (smaller

> robably better than a large chain) and explore them paying for a pick up/drop

> ff daily or weekly towel laundering service? How did that go? I'm considering

> t and wonder what the down sides would be.

>

> At the big chain salon I used to go to, they had the 'assistants' doing all

> he grunt work, which included laundry & folding using their onsite machines.

So

> hat didn't work out because they already had people onsite doing the work. But

> 'm wondering now about the smaller places. Thoughts?

>

> Laurie

>

>

[Guest guest]

,

I think that is exactly what happened with the Racquet Club. And the kids

flourished .

Marie

> > >

> > > Anyone here in our IPADD family who is good at folding hand towels into

neat squares? Have you thought about approaching your local hair salon (smaller

probably better than a large chain) and explore them paying for a pick up/drop

off daily or weekly towel laundering service? How did that go? I'm considering

it and wonder what the down sides would be.

> > >

> > > At the big chain salon I used to go to, they had the 'assistants' doing

all the grunt work, which included laundry & folding using their onsite

machines. So that didn't work out because they already had people onsite doing

the work. But I'm wondering now about the smaller places. Thoughts?

> > >

> > > Laurie

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

This is a great idea that has a few possible glitches (based on feedback), but

certainly seems worth exploring. A great chance to do more exploration would be

to attend one of the the IAMC workshops, " The Nuts and Bolts of Self-Employment "

being held in Normal on Monday, August 23 and Skokie on August 26. It's free to

people with disabilities and family members, $50 for professionals. For more

info and the registration form go to http://iambc.org.

Vicki Niswander

IAMC Executive Director

> > > >

> > > > Anyone here in our IPADD family who is good at folding hand towels into

neat squares? Have you thought about approaching your local hair salon (smaller

probably better than a large chain) and explore them paying for a pick up/drop

off daily or weekly towel laundering service? How did that go? I'm considering

it and wonder what the down sides would be.

> > > >

> > > > At the big chain salon I used to go to, they had the 'assistants' doing

all the grunt work, which included laundry & folding using their onsite

machines. So that didn't work out because they already had people onsite doing

the work. But I'm wondering now about the smaller places. Thoughts?

> > > >

> > > > Laurie

> > > >

> > > >

[Guest guest]

When I do billing, I have a line for materials, and also a line for my time and services, reflected as a CPT code. I also use an ICD-9 code as well.I would refund the materials charges if they were returned unused. I would not refund the charges for my time. Sandrock,CNMSent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID Business questionDear Group:To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?Warmly,------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

,I haven't encountered this situation yet, but it's definitely given me some food for thought.  I teach Creighton, and we do introductory sessions free of charge in our center.  It's up to the individual centers whether or not they charge for the intros.  If the women/couples want to proceed w/ the method and begin individual follow-ups (which we charge for), they may purchase materials at that point.  If they don't think the method is for them, they can go on their way not feeling bitter about having spent money on something they're not going to use.  If they went home after the intro, didn't use the materials, and decided they didn't want to proceed with follow-ups for whatever reason, I'd have no problem refunding the money for the materials.  I think this set-up helps us avoid the issue of refunds, for the most part.

However, if we charged for the introductory sessions themselves in addition to the materials, I would not refund the money for actual time spent during the intro itself, only the materials.  In your situation, I think it was very reasonable to offer them class #1 free of charge (btw, which method do you teach?) and offer to answer questions to clear up the confusion.  I'd consider refunding money for the materials if unused, but I don't think I'd refund the money for the actual class.  

Good luck! Trumble, ARNP, FCPI, NFPMCIOn Fri, Jun 15, 2012 at 9:21 PM, cindy4lifeoconnor <oconnor1124@...> wrote:

 

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

I am teaching Marquette Method, and was teaching them Class #2 of Marquette II. - On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 12:29 AM, Trumble <kellymtrumble@...> wrote:

 

,I haven't encountered this situation yet, but it's definitely given me some food for thought.  I teach Creighton, and we do introductory sessions free of charge in our center.  It's up to the individual centers whether or not they charge for the intros.  If the women/couples want to proceed w/ the method and begin individual follow-ups (which we charge for), they may purchase materials at that point.  If they don't think the method is for them, they can go on their way not feeling bitter about having spent money on something they're not going to use.  If they went home after the intro, didn't use the materials, and decided they didn't want to proceed with follow-ups for whatever reason, I'd have no problem refunding the money for the materials.  I think this set-up helps us avoid the issue of refunds, for the most part.

However, if we charged for the introductory sessions themselves in addition to the materials, I would not refund the money for actual time spent during the intro itself, only the materials.  In your situation, I think it was very reasonable to offer them class #1 free of charge (btw, which method do you teach?) and offer to answer questions to clear up the confusion.  I'd consider refunding money for the materials if unused, but I don't think I'd refund the money for the actual class.  

Good luck! Trumble, ARNP, FCPI, NFPMCIOn Fri, Jun 15, 2012 at 9:21 PM, cindy4lifeoconnor <oconnor1124@...> wrote:

 

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

No refund; a deal is a deal; they wantedA class; you taught it; they received A service, time and materials. YouAre offering to help; they are not committedThey can't hurt your business. If theyDid the same with a university classThe university would not offer a refundSent from my iPhoneOn 2012-06-15, at 9:21 PM, "cindy4lifeoconnor" <oconnor1124@...> wrote:

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

OK all well and good to consider it strictly from the business perspective, but there may be more here or am I missing something. It is very important to be taken seriously in NFP instruction and we don't want to rashly judge that these gals took a whimsical approach to NFP, but does it not seem like that's exaclty what they did? So couple of questions:

Are they catholic? Are they as far as you know contraceptors? If yes, there is also a pastoral element here where they may have started out with good intentions but realized in the end they couldn't make the jump, and maybe need some further encouragement.

So if it is a strictly whimsical careless attitude definitely no refund, but if there is more pastroraly here, I'd reconsider.

In the end we have to be in this for souls. that doesn't mean we have to be used and abused -- there have to be lines drawn -- but perhaps this is a cry for help on their part.

Sincerely yours,

Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC, CNFPMC, ABVM, ACPh

Interventional Cardiologist, Endovascular Diplomate, Varicose Vein Specialist, Noncontraceptive Family Planning Consultant, Family Planning Researcher

Medical Director, The Oklahoma Vein and Endovascular Center (www.noveinok.com, veininfo@...)

Executive Director, The Edith Stein Foundation (www.theedithsteinfoundation.com)

405-947-2228 (office)

405-834-7506 (cell)

405-947-2307 (FAX)

pedullad@...

"...the priestly ministry is not just a pastoral service; it ensures the continuity of the functions entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and the continuity of the powers related to those functions. Adaptation to civilizations and times therefore cannot abolish, on essential points, the sacramental reference to constitutive events of Christianity and to Christ himself." (Inter Insignores)

Business question

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and thei

r husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

Good points Dominic. I was going to suggest if this is done in conjunction with a Church ministry, perhaps the most charitable thing to do is to refund the money even though you didn't do anything wrong. I would also perhaps think twice before accepting someone's claim that they could enter the instruction at class 2. They may think they have a basic understanding that they truly don't have and maybe that was part of their confusion. Perhaps insist that everyone begin at the beginning with you to avoid future misunderstandings. Hang in there and don't let this get you down! A lot of work ahead... BlssingsSent via BlackBerry by AT&TFrom: Dominic <pedullad@...>Sender: Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2012 10:35:27 -0400 (EDT)< >Reply Subject: Re: Business question OK all well and good to consider it strictly from the business perspective, but there may be more here or am I missing something. It is very important to be taken seriously in NFP instruction and we don't want to rashly judge that these gals took a whimsical approach to NFP, but does it not seem like that's exaclty what they did? So couple of questions:Are they catholic? Are they as far as you know contraceptors? If yes, there is also a pastoral element here where they may have started out with good intentions but realized in the end they couldn't make the jump, and maybe need some further encouragement.So if it is a strictly whimsical careless attitude definitely no refund, but if there is more pastroraly here, I'd reconsider.In the end we have to be in this for souls. that doesn't mean we have to be used and abused -- there have to be lines drawn -- but perhaps this is a cry for help on their part.Sincerely yours,Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC, CNFPMC, ABVM, ACPhInterventional Cardiologist, Endovascular Diplomate, Varicose Vein Specialist, Noncontraceptive Family Planning Consultant, Family Planning ResearcherMedical Director, The Oklahoma Vein and Endovascular Center (www.noveinok.com, veininfo@...)Executive Director, The Edith Stein Foundation (www.theedithsteinfoundation.com)405-947-2228 (office)405-834-7506 (cell)405-947-2307 (FAX)pedullad@..."...the priestly ministry is not just a pastoral service; it ensures the continuity of the functions entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and the continuity of the powers related to those functions. Adaptation to civilizations and times therefore cannot abolish, on essential points, the sacramental reference to constitutive events of Christianity and to Christ himself." (Inter Insignores) Business question Dear Group:To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?Warmly,

[Guest guest]

I've never had anyone ask for a refund but I've certainly had clients who left my class mid-way, angry or confused or both. I did not offer a refund, but then no one offered to return the materials either. I think you are under no obligation to refund the fees but it might generate more goodwill to go ahead and do it. In the future, you might want to make it a policy to just insist that everyone begin with class #1, even if they claim to know all of the material. It may be a waste of time (probably not) but at least you can be sure that everyone will be on the same page when you get to class #2. It's a rotten feeling when you have this kind of experience but it does happen occasionally that you just don't click with a client. Don't take it personally, just try to figure out what went wrong if that's possible, and move on. Lee Ann DoerflingerSTM teacher, Archdiocese of Washington From: oconnor1124@...Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2012 01:21:30 +0000Subject: Business question

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

I've never had that happen, but then my fee for service is a "reccomended donation" and that's made clear at the beginning of class. That probably affects the way clients view the exchange of funds for service.I can certainly see why they are probably confused. In a class setting, it's all "theory" - the majority of the learning with NFP happens during the individualized consultations; where the theory comes to life. Bypassing that (plus the first class) would leave a lot of gaps in their understanding of it all!I think you should have insisted on the first class; as a review of what they already know. When people claim to understand it all, you have no way of knowing how much or how little information that actually includes! There could have been a lot of gaps in their knowledge that only widened during the second class. It does sound like they are being especially difficult, but I would just be gracious about it. Since you didn't insist on the first class for review, which possibly contributed to their confusion...just refund their money. It would be great if they would allow you to work with them to rectify the confusion, but since they are not open to that - just let it be. If you are especially gracious about this, one or more of them may reconsider coming to you for NFP support down the road. If they walk away from this experience on bad terms with you, you can be sure they will speak unfavorably about it to others and undermine the important work you (and your NFP organization) are doing! So if at all possible, try to part amicably. If that means a refund, so be it. a Van Uden, LPNAccredited Instructor, Billings Ovulation Methodwww.facebook.com/BillingsMethod From: oconnor1124@...Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2012 01:21:30 +0000Subject: Business question

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

Here is what I sent to them: Since you are truly dissatisfied, I am sending you all refund checks. I am sorry you were disappointed in my class, I do wish that each of you would have approached me earlier. I want you to know that I am always willing to work with you to help understand the method and would like to extend to you the same offer if you do wish to come back on as my clients in the future, only a $50 fee for both classes, and the 12 month unlimited chart checks, clarifications, and questions. I am also willing to meet you at your choice of setting, since I know it is a bit of a drive from Virginia Beach. 

I only want the best for my clients, and I'm sorry if you feel that I had wasted your time. You should receive the checks in the mail on Monday.In peace and love,

O'ConnorOn Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 12:41 PM, NFP Lethbridge <nfplethbridge@...> wrote:

 

I've never had that happen, but then my fee for service is a " reccomended donation " and that's made clear at the beginning of class.  That probably affects the way clients view the exchange of funds for service.

I can certainly see why they are probably confused.  In a class setting, it's all " theory " - the majority of the learning with NFP happens during the individualized consultations; where the theory comes to life.   Bypassing that (plus the first class) would leave a lot of gaps in their understanding of it all!

I think you should have insisted on the first class; as a review of what they already know.  When people claim to understand it all, you have no way of knowing how much or how little information that actually includes!  There could have been a lot of gaps in their knowledge that only widened during the second class. 

It does sound like they are being especially difficult, but I would just be gracious about it.  Since you didn't insist on the first class for review, which possibly contributed to their confusion...just refund their money.   It would be great if they would allow you to work with them to rectify the confusion, but since they are not open to that - just let it be.   If you are especially gracious about this, one or more of them may reconsider coming to you for NFP support down the road.   If they walk away from this experience on bad terms with you, you can be sure they will speak unfavorably about it to others and undermine the important work you (and your NFP organization) are doing!   So if at all possible, try to part amicably.   If that means a refund, so be it. 

a Van Uden, LPNAccredited Instructor, Billings Ovulation Methodwww.facebook.com/BillingsMethod

From: oconnor1124@...Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2012 01:21:30 +0000Subject: Business question

 

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

that was extremely generous and reasonable of you. I may have missed it but were thees gals Catholics? Using contraceptives? Strictly health motivated? religious motivated? If you don't want to share all that feel free not to, but we have been through this for many years and it does make a difference. My wife and I ran the first MD/RN collaborative NFP clinic (not "NFP center that happens to be located in a clinic" but rather "NFP clinic") ever in our state, and these were familiar experiences.

Sincerely yours,

Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC, CNFPMC, ABVM, ACPh

Interventional Cardiologist, Endovascular Diplomate, Varicose Vein Specialist, Noncontraceptive Family Planning Consultant, Family Planning Researcher

Medical Director, The Oklahoma Vein and Endovascular Center (www.noveinok.com, veininfo@...)

Executive Director, The Edith Stein Foundation (www.theedithsteinfoundation.com)

405-947-2228 (office)

405-834-7506 (cell)

405-947-2307 (FAX)

pedullad@...

"...the priestly ministry is not just a pastoral service; it ensures the continuity of the functions entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and the continuity of the powers related to those functions. Adaptation to civilizations and times therefore cannot abolish, on essential points, the sacramental reference to constitutive events of Christianity and to Christ himself." (Inter Insignores)

Business question

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

Dr. Dominic,These women are Catholic, two are in the third trimester of pregnancy. One was post-partum, they all claimed to be well-versed in NFP and the theology of the body aspect AND all of their husbands are youth ministers at various parishes in the diocese. I think it was more that one of them was dissatisfied somehow, and she became the spokesperson for the others. I know for next time to only offer the full course, and perhaps for this situation do the entire two classes in one day or instead of spreading it out over two months, do it a week apart, but I if I teach both classes to them, it would ensure that they get all the info and don't feel lost. I'm thinking it might be a personality conflict on their end. My class today was extremely interactive and grateful. 

Happy Father's Day to ALL!  O'Connor, RN, BSNMarquette Method Instructor

On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 11:07 AM, Dominic <pedullad@...> wrote:

 

that was extremely generous and reasonable of you. I may have missed it but were thees gals Catholics? Using contraceptives? Strictly health motivated? religious motivated? If you don't want to share all that feel free not to, but we have been through this for many years and it does make a difference. My wife and I ran the first MD/RN collaborative NFP clinic (not " NFP center that happens to be located in a clinic " but rather " NFP clinic " ) ever in our state, and these were familiar experiences.

Sincerely yours,

Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC, CNFPMC, ABVM, ACPh

Interventional Cardiologist, Endovascular Diplomate, Varicose Vein Specialist, Noncontraceptive Family Planning Consultant, Family Planning Researcher

Medical Director, The Oklahoma Vein and Endovascular Center (www.noveinok.com, veininfo@...)

Executive Director, The Edith Stein Foundation (www.theedithsteinfoundation.com)

405-947-2228 (office)

405-834-7506 (cell)

405-947-2307 (FAX)

pedullad@...

" ...the priestly ministry is not just a pastoral service; it ensures the continuity of the functions entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and the continuity of the powers related to those functions. Adaptation to civilizations and times therefore cannot abolish, on essential points, the sacramental reference to constitutive events of Christianity and to Christ himself. " (Inter Insignores)

Business question

 

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,

[Guest guest]

And they sound like loyal Catholics. I think you are free to act as you see fit and have done very well.

Sincerely yours,

Dominic M. Pedulla MD, FACC, CNFPMC, ABVM, ACPh

Interventional Cardiologist, Endovascular Diplomate, Varicose Vein Specialist, Noncontraceptive Family Planning Consultant, Family Planning Researcher

Medical Director, The Oklahoma Vein and Endovascular Center (www.noveinok.com, veininfo@...)

Executive Director, The Edith Stein Foundation (www.theedithsteinfoundation.com)

405-947-2228 (office)

405-834-7506 (cell)

405-947-2307 (FAX)

pedullad@...

"...the priestly ministry is not just a pastoral service; it ensures the continuity of the functions entrusted by Christ to the Apostles and the continuity of the powers related to those functions. Adaptation to civilizations and times therefore cannot abolish, on essential points, the sacramental reference to constitutive events of Christianity and to Christ himself." (Inter Insignores)

Business question

Dear Group:

To those of you who solely teach NFP, have you ever had a client, or group of clients ask for a refund? I had one girl who represented two of her friends ask me through e-mail to teach her and her friends NFP for post-partum. They said they already knew the anatomy and physiology of NFP and they knew the TOB portion. I agreed that they could join my class for a class #2. They asked questions, I answered them, I thought things were going well. A week and a half later I receive an e-mail from the same girl who signed up telling me that they were just as confused coming out of the class as they were going in and they wanted a refund and would return my materials. I replied that I would be willing to work with them further to answer any questions, clear confusions, and would offer them the class #1 at no charge since they were disappointed and confused with class #2. I received another e-mail stating that they no longer want to work with me. I know one of the gal's moms, and their husbands are all youth ministers. I invited them to bring their husbands, but they told their husbands that it was just girl stuff that was going to be discussed...I feel betrayed and confused, and I feel that they are trying to take advantage of me. My father who owns a very successful door and window business says I should offer a full refund, but others have told me to stick to my guns and not offer the refund. So, I bring this to you, what would you do and why?

Warmly,