Got asked to do a 30-minute live pour at 7 a.m. on a Linea PB with a 12 oz pitcher to “prove consistency” before an offer — should this be paid, and what rate would you quote? I’m happy to showcase double swans and a triple-layer tulip, but technique matters and demo time is labor — where do you draw the line between a showcase and free work?
For a “30-minute live pour at 7 a.m.” on a Linea PB, I frame it as an “audition shift” and quote 1.5x my bar rate with a one‑hour minimum or a flat $75–$100; it’s sailed through when I put it in writing beforehand. If they balk, I at least get beans/milk covered and a 10‑minute dial‑in — will they let you dial before the double swans with a 12 oz pitcher, @OP?
I’d treat it as a paid trial with a written scope: @charles_mcD91’s one-hour minimum works, and I’d quote $120 early‑bird, they supply beans/milk and cover parking, with a 24‑hour cancel fee. Also insist on using their house recipe and grinder — otherwise it’s not a consistency test, it’s a latte‑art talent show, and exposure doesn’t pay for milk. Would they be cool if you send an invoice template in advance?