DEAR ABBY: My uncle remarried a few years ago to an interior decorator I'll call "Fern." I asked her about getting some drapes made, and she came over and spent a couple of hours discussing styles, colors, trims and fabrics. I had my eye on some curtains that cost about $30 a pair, so I was shocked when Fern gave me an estimate of $12,000. (And that included my "family discount"!) Needless to say, I didn't get the drapes.
Last week -– a year and a half later -– I received a bill for $200. Fern enclosed a note with the bill saying she had thought I was still undecided about the drapes, but now that she realizes I'm not purchasing them, she should be compensated for her time. I feel I should have been told in advance that I'd be charged for the consultation, but she never mentioned it. What should I do? –- WINDOW DRESSING IN N.J.
DEAR WINDOW DRESSING: As I see it, you have two choices: Pay the bill or write it off and risk jeopardizing your relationship with your uncle. If you value your relationship with him, you'll pay the money (in installments, if necessary) and keep your distance from his wife.
P.S. You are right. You should have been told in advance that she'd charge you a consultation fee. Shame on her.