Venessa is a top-tier ML.

You know, one of life's enduring mysteries is why people are so astonished when excellence comes at a price. Right up there with why moths insist on flying into flames and why mediocre men so often mistake confidence for competence.

Venessa charges more because she can.

She didn't start charging those rates for no reason. She's built her reputation over time by being consistent, doing good work, and delivering what she says she will. That's why people are willing to pay more for her services.

Now, there seems to be a curious belief among some newcomers at this shop that they should command the same rates while they're still accumulating experience. Fascinating theory. Unfortunately, markets are rarely governed by wishful thinking.

Premium fees are not a participation trophy. They are the reward for proven value.

You don't simply announce yourself as exceptional. Other people decide that for you.

Venessa appears to understand this perfectly well. Others are still wandering through the "charge first, justify later" wilderness, hoping reality eventually catches up with their invoices.

As for me, I'll continue seeing Venessa and paying her premium rates with complete satisfaction. When someone consistently provides outstanding service, the additional cost ceases to be an expense and becomes an investment.

A distinction worth remembering.