This thread has probably been done a few times already but let's call mine a refresher.
I know a lot of you wish to make your booking experience short and sweet so let me help you.
Read the provider's website
You don't like deposits, screenings or sending your ID? Make sure you read their ads and websites as they will for sure let you know what information they require. This will save you time because there's nothing more frustrating than finding THE one, sending a message and realizing you cannot go further in the planning process. You will not make them change their mind, if they require a deposit, nothing you will say will make them skip that part.
Know what you want and ask for it
You want this to be done within 3-4 text messages/emails? Give all the information required in the first text message/email. There is absolutely no need for you to send an introduction message that doesn't contain the information the provider might need to book you. Keep your "hey what's good today?" for another day. I know you mean well and you want to make it more personal but a lof of my colleagues will see it as "time wasting" and won't even engage.
Hello so&so,
My name is Mr. X and I would like to know if you're available on [date] for a [duration] session. I would like an [incall/outcall] session. Let me know what information you would need to complete the booking.
Thank you,
X
I would like to book a provider to be my date for an event. Will I have to pay the same rates?
Trips, concerts, restaurant and all that jazz can sometimes be a puzzle. A lot of us have what we call a "social rate" which is lower than our regular rates and allow people to book us for non-intimate events such as but not limited to: business cocktails, concerts, museum dates
If you don't see social rates on a provider's website or ad, ask nicely but do not suggest a price as it is considered rude.
Hello so&so,
I've noticed you don't have social rates, I have this event coming up and I would love for you to be my date. [give as much details as you can so that she can give you a quote] Let me know what information you would need to complete the booking.
Thank you,
X
A few will have a totally different section reserved to travelling, whether you fly her to you or you depart together. If it's not there, once again ask nicely but do not suggest a rate. If you've seen her a few times or if it's something she really wants to do, she might even give you a discount. I know of a friend who really wanted to go to Toqué! so she lowered her dinner date rates but only if you were to take her there.
Can I know what's on your menu?
This question has probably made you lose your chance with a provider. While it's fair to ask what one might offer, there are certainly ways to ask. You could for instance, share what you like or need and ask the provider if that's something they offer.
"Hello so&so,
My name is Mr. X and I would like to know if you're available on [date] for a [duration] session. I would like an [incall/outcall] session. Let me know what information you would need to complete the booking. I am really into deep French kissing and kinkier things like COF. Are those things you offer?
Thank you,
X"
I am married or I have a partner. Discretion is a must for me, how do I play safe?
If you need the provider to be scent & makeup free meaning; no perfume, no scented body lotions, no body oil, no lipstick, no foundation
Let her know ahead, not everyone has fragrance free products so it's good to know a bit in advance in case they might need to find the said products. Same goes for asking her to dress more modestly if you are going to meet in public or if you want her to meet you at your hotel/residence. While none of us walk around with a neon sign that says I AM AN ESCORT, mentioning that you would prefer a more neutral outfit is totally fine.
How do I know she's not going to scam me?
Do your homework. Are the photos legit? Is she only advertising on one website? Is there any reviews? Is she active on twitter? Those are some good questions you can ask yourself before sending money. A reputable provider would not jeopardize her reputation over $50 while she can make more by actually seeing you.
References. I have never seen an independent companion before what do I do?
Some ask for references, some don't. Some will also not provide references. If you used to see someone in an agency and they have an active twitter account, you could ask the provider if they would accept to contact them on there. You should always give the most recent provider you've seen as a reference as many of us think it is strange that you always use the same person as a ref if you've seen 2 other companions after.
I'd like to bring a gift. Is that ok?
Gifts are never mandatory but always appreciated. I recommend that you either find her wishlist or ask the person directly. You wouldn't want to bring a bottle of wine to someone who's been sober for months or chocolate covered almonds to someone who is deadly allergic so always ask before you bring anything. Twitter can be a good place to find out what a provider might be into or might like.
Confirm and do not cancel last minute
I know some of you have very unpredictable schedules but as much as you can, do not cancel last minute. It's ok to cancel but you have to let them know, don't just ghost them. A lot of us have to book a space to host you and it's not free so when you cancel last minute, you are putting the provider in a very unpleasant position. Apologize and ask if it's possible to re schedule. Some might have a cancellation policy, I recommend that you read it thoroughly if you have an uncertain schedule. They will usually send you a message the day before or a few hours before to confirm, now would also be a good time to let them know if your plans have changed.
The envelope
An envelope makes it less awkward to hand cash to someone. If you meet in public you might even use a birthday card to hide the money. The provider will most likely excuse themselves to the bathroom to count the money. Is she going to run away with my money? No, not if you've done your homework and made sure she was a reputable provider. If you decide to go with the envelope, It's recommended that you do not seal it as it will be easier for the provider to count the money.
Any other questions or concerns, I'd be happy to help or clarify.
LC
Updated to add new points