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# How does the client's budget range work?

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/f/5/a/b/f5ab38e0c304c000/captura-de-tela-2026-08-17-as-_17512a.png)
When a client submits a request, they're asked to enter a **budget range** — but it's important to understand what that number actually means, and what it doesn't.

## The budget is a starting reference, not a fixed price
The budget a client enters is **not** a final price they're locking you into. We ask for it simply because, without any price reference, it would be very hard for a client to know what kind of experience to expect — and it helps us route the request toward chefs who are a good fit.

## What the client is told
Clients see clear guidance when submitting a request:
* The price includes **groceries and service**.
* Extras like **wine pairings, premium ingredients, travel, or additional staff** are proposed separately by the chef, as part of a bespoke quote.
## What this means for your proposal
The final price is always in **your hands**, not the client's. Use the budget as a starting reference, then build your actual proposal based on:
* The menu requested
* The number of guests
* Travel distance and cost
* Ingredients (especially any premium or specific requests)
* Staffing, timing, and complexity of the event
## Don't forget to price in your travel costs
If a request doesn't include enough detail about the location, ask the client exactly where the event will take place **before** sending your proposal — that way you can calculate your travel costs correctly and include them from the start, rather than needing to justify them later.
## Why this approach exists
Letting the client set a fixed price upfront would create unrealistic expectations and put chefs in the position of having to defend costs that are simply part of doing the job — travel, prep time, sourcing. That's exactly why the budget is only a reference point: **you always decide the real, final price** based on what the service actually requires.
> 💡 If a request's budget looks low for what's being asked, that's completely normal — reply with your real price and a short explanation of what's included. Many clients adjust once they understand what goes into the service.