I'd like to increase my rate, but I don't want it to impact my pending requests. What will others see on their end that I have already been communicating with?
I have my regular customers contact me in advance to reserve their dates and I send them the "Booking" with the rates they have been at. I have called and talked to some customers to let know I have raised my rates and what they would be to get their response and feedback. I try to keep my customers rates within a close range. If anyone would need a discounted rate due to financial reasons that is the time to talk about it. I always keep a good re pore and open communication with my customers so I can keep them as repeats. I really enjoy my customers and their dogs. It is easier to keep a repeat customer than to find a new customer and dog(s) that are a great fit.
If someone has already booked with you for a future date, it doesn't affect them. If a job is pending but not booked, the rate in effect is the one when you were contacted. Only requests made after your rate change will be at those rates.
Those you have already communicated with will not be notified of your increase in rate, as it will not directly affect their booking. Only those looking to create a new booking with you will be affected! However, if you would like to keep your original rates for past clients, you will have to update that manually.