With a background in marketing I'm always interested in industry trends. I research most anything I do and anything substantial I purchase. How I love the Internet! The funny thing about this business is that no matter how you want to go about your business plan, there is an intimate and individual nature to the business that one must take into consideration. It's not like selling a product. At least not for me.

After my move to Seattle from New York I began researching the local market and noticed some real differences. My first month was discouraging. I went from a schedule I could hardly manage, practically needing to hire a secretary, to nada. Plus, I was different than a lot of girls in the area and an out-of-towner, to boot. Seattle folks aren't all that welcoming, both in and out of the industry, and within the industry people are naturally skeptical.

Instead of waiting it out I made changes. The new photos and website were something planned regardless of my location. I decreased my rates, added a one hour option and decided to host on a regular basis. Sure, I received several inquiries after I made these changes, but the majority were not people I would choose to see. Potential clients would not allow me to screen them properly but wanted to be allowed in my home (what?). I received emails IN ALL CAPS and from "kids": r u 4 real? heres my pic r u open?. Most of the inquiries I received were from men who didn't care to read my website or my blog, they really had no interest in me as a human being. That wasn't what I wanted.

Being a companionship provider was not a role I acquired because I had to. I wanted to. Fortunately, I am still in that position. I do it because I enjoy it. The income is icing on the cake and allows me many opportunities. Because of this, I don't see suitors who do not appeal to me because of their lack of manners, bad hygeine, indiscretions, disrespect for my safety and seeing me as nothing more than a commodity. Besides safety and discretion, I look for chemistry and long-term potential. I guess patience is not my strong suit and I should know it takes time to establish yourself and gain quality people in your life.

I've decided to drop my incall option. It was an ill-considered decision and I find the incall situation less than discreet in my case. Seeing one gentleman per day, at most, the risk/reward ratio wasn't in my corner. I know there are gentlemen hoping to take advantage of that option and I apologize for the last minute decision. Hopefully it is understood. My one hour local rate and fees in general will stay the same . . . for now.

Kate