Why “Cheap” Can Cost You More
I bought the cheap chips.
Trying to save a little time and a few dollars, I stopped at a nearby store on my way to a friend’s cookout. My favorite brand was out of stock, so I grabbed the store brand — cheaper, available, and “good enough.”
Spoiler alert: they weren’t. One bite, and I knew. Despite the expiration date, the chips were stale and rancid. No one else touched them. I tossed the bag before the bad taste could spread.
We’ve all had that moment — where saving money ends up costing more.
It’s a classic case of price vs. value.
Do you take a chance on the cheapest option, or do you invest in proven quality and brand?
You can probably see where this is going — but hang in there, because it’s a happy ending (eventually).
The High Cost of “Cheap” in Publishing
Authors who come to us after creating their own disappointing publishing experience often say the same thing: “I thought I was saving money… until I realized what it really cost me.”
Take George. (Not his real name — but a real situation.)
George poured his heart into writing a beautifully written children’s book. He even spent top dollar on a talented illustrator, and the artwork was truly engaging.
However, George then attempted to cut costs on printing. He bypassed professional publishing guidance and went directly to a budget printer overseas. “Four times the books for half the price!” he proudly said.
He ordered 5,000 copies.
Soon, George’s two-car garage was filled to the ceiling. Boxes lined his basement. His car trunk doubled as a mobile warehouse.
There was just one problem . . .
George had not thought about how to sell the books.
- No website
- Not listed on Amazon
- No distributor
- No online sales system
Twelve books sold to family and friends — that was it.
That’s when someone said, “Call Cathy.”
We helped George:
- List his book on Amazon
- Distribute through Ingram
- Make it available to libraries
- Create a professional website where he could sell a signed book at a premium price
- Connect with a bulk buyer who cleared out garage space (at cost, but still a win)
Result: George got back his parking space — and a better chance of selling his book.
Moral of the Story
Just like cheap chips, a budget publishing option can leave you with a bad taste — and a whole lot of regret.
That’s why our clients choose us, not because we’re the cheapest, but because we save them money, time, and stress in the long run.
We bring 20+ years of publishing experience to every project. We’re not just a service provider — we’re your partner, guide, and advocate from first draft to final sale.
Thinking About Publishing? Let’s Talk.
Schedule a free 30-minute Discovery Call with me. I’m happy to help you navigate your roadmap to publishing success — with clarity, confidence, and quality you can taste.