Having a special talent can be a wonderful asset, but sometimes it can also make you a target for bullying during childhood.
Tiffany Mulder, a renowned violinist, knows this all too well. She’s been playing the violin since middle school, a time when one classmate relentlessly bullied her. Years later, that same bully returned with an unexpected request: she wanted Tiffany to play the violin at her wedding—for free. The encounter turned into an important life lesson for the bride-to-be.
“Hey, long time no see!” the former bully began. “I’m getting married and would love for you to play at my ceremony in October. It would be such a great gift! Plus, you could use the photos and videos to showcase your talent—a win-win!”
Thinking Tiffany would be eager to add to her portfolio, the bride-to-be had no idea that Tiffany was already an established professional. Recognized by major wedding platforms like The Knot, Tiffany was far from needing “exposure.”
Tiffany’s reply was swift and firm. “Hi there! It’s pretty presumptuous to ask for a $2,500 service as a gift, especially given how much you used to bully me for being in the orchestra back in middle school. As for my portfolio, I’ve been recognized by The Knot and Wedding Wire for six years straight,” the Chicago-based violinist responded.
“I’ve been building my portfolio since I was 12 and have been working in the wedding industry for 19 years.”
The bride-to-be wasn’t happy with the response and took issue with Tiffany’s pricing. Despite her objections, she continued to push for a discount and even hinted at rekindling a friendship.
Tiffany, however, had her doubts about the sudden friendliness. She politely explained that she had enough friends and was too busy for the negativity.
Undeterred, the bride-to-be insisted, even offering $1,000 for Tiffany to play during her slow dance at the reception.
In a humorous twist, Tiffany couldn’t help but point out that her former bully’s wedding date fell on Mean Girls Day. She declined the $1,000 offer and made it clear she wasn’t interested in working “for exposure.”
With a playful jab, Tiffany suggested the bride charge her guests five dollars each as an entertainment fee to cover her costs.
In the end, Tiffany had the last laugh—and a bit of sweet revenge. The bride-to-be had learned the hard way that some favors come with a price.
