After mentioning a provider’s name in a recent post and now seeing this situation unfold, I realize that was the right call. The backlash someone can face for simply doing the right thing is unsettling. But as long as you stand by what’s right and protect the integrity of the hobby, nothing else matters. Let’s take a look at this scenario.
A provider, Heather Strong, recently found herself debating whether to publicly name another provider accused of stealing from a client. According to the story, the accused provider accepted a full payment of $2,200 upfront but never followed through with the appointment. Instead, they ghosted the client, pocketed the money, and left him with nothing but frustration.
As clients, we’re familiar with a few unwritten rules of the hobby. One of the most important is to never send the full rate upfront. Whether this man was unaware or simply too eager to meet the provider, he broke that rule—and now he’s $2,200 poorer. Still, breaking a rule doesn’t justify being scammed.
The keyword here is scammed. The provider in question has a good reputation, so they know better. This wasn’t an accident—it was a calculated move rooted in the belief that they could get away with it.
Some people are speculating that something may have happened to cause the provider to back out. Perhaps they felt unsafe, were disrespected, or there was a communication breakdown. If any of those were the case, the simple solution would have been to refund the money. There’s no valid reason to keep the client’s funds, and most people in Heather’s comments seem to agree.
Heather is now wrestling with whether to remain silent or privately inform those who need to know. This is her choice, and it’s one she feels is best for the situation. I’m not here to debate her decision but rather to highlight why she’s hesitant in the first place. While I can’t speak for her directly, it’s reasonable to assume her reluctance stems from fear—fear of what this provider might do in retaliation or fear of backlash from the community. That’s a chilling thought.
For any Los Angeles clients looking for someone to book, I’d encourage you to consider Heather Strong. She’s earned respect from her peers, but she deserves recognition from us as well. Standing up for what’s right isn’t always easy, and Heather’s courage and integrity should be celebrated.
