01/04/2024
Taxidermy is a luxury item.
Like a nice watch, a original print for the wall, or getting all the bells and whistles on your car.
Sure, you could live without them. You could also get a similar item for much cheaper, and possibly enjoy it just as much, if that suits you.
But there is a market for all levels of work. You must choose what your desires are, and find a provider that fits what you want …
Not the other way around!
High quality - even mid quality - taxidermists are in demand. I know this, as I have gotten many frustrated calls from people wanting to get a deer head mounted. “EVERYONE is full!” they lament.
I quoted a price the other day and the person complained and said “blame the president!” and I laughed because, well, YES my supplies have gone up in price which generates an increase every year but mostly, blame me. I set my prices to what I feel I deserve and what my market will yield. I don’t expect to get every customer, not even half of them. It works out well, as I still have to turn jobs away. I have a list of cheaper taxidermists I am more than willing to refer! Will they do the type of work you see here on this page? That’s up to you to spin that wheel. I even refer to taxidermists *better*/more expensive than me, if I feel the client’s need will not be fulfilled here!
Not everyone gets taxidermy work done. Some decide that it simply is something they can live without. Others know they cannot live with a bobcat on their wall that looks like it’s tail got stuck in a light socket. And if they cannot pay to have a good mount done, they would rather have none at all. But it is not food or rent. It is not your taxidermists responsibility to make sure your deer head can fit into your budget every year.
The bottom line is, the price someone sets their work at is a carefully thought out process that is not to be haggled with. Especially in a time where the demand exceeds the supply. This isn’t Craigslist and Im not selling bags of marbles, I’m commissioning limited days of my time. The smaller the ask (will you take $50 off if I bring two?) the more petty it appears the business relationship will be. And once you make it clear you are this type of business person … your taxidermist might *always* be too booked full when you call.