Kickoff
Nephew Navy
HEX #5F6B80
“Our nephew already did a version. Can you just polish it?”
What they really mean: Please rescue a design I'm emotionally attached to.
Reply template
Subject: Re: Existing design
Hi [Name],
Thanks for sending it over. It's good to have something to react to.
When a design needs fixing at the foundation, polishing it can take longer than starting fresh. I'd suggest a short review first: I'll tell you what's working, what isn't, and whether to refine or rebuild. The review is [fee].
Best,
[Your name]
Before you send
- Replace every [bracket] with real details: the client's name, your fee, number of revisions, dates.
- Check it against your quote or contract. The reply is strongest when it points to what you both agreed.
- Match the tone to the relationship. For a long-term client, soften the second paragraph. For a repeat offender, keep it as is.