If you’ve clicked this page then you might be asking, Alright, so how do I actually go about ordering and paying for a writing commission? Luckily, I’ve thought ahead and can answer for you!
Writing commissions work a lot like how art commissions work – which means communication is important. If you have no clue where to begin, then the Contact page gives example templates to help you organize your thoughts and request exactly what you’re after.
The basic process for ordering a commission starts with sending in your email request. Once I’ve responded and we’ve worked out the basics of your story, I will send you an invoice. Payment is due before work begins on your story.
Once the invoice is paid, I’ll email you again to confirm that it was paid and give you a Google Document link where the story will be written. You’ll get access as a commentator so this means you’ll be able to highlight and point out certain sections and leave comments. This can range from pointing out things you like and want to see more of or asking me to rewrite a certain scene because it’s not quite like you imagined.
You won’t be able to change the entire plot or add in major plot points that were never discussed (such as adding in a whole new section where a character might go somewhere that changes the entire story), but you’ll be able to edit scenes and ask to rewrite, add, or even take away certain elements. An example of this would be asking to add a scene of two characters dancing while out on their date.
Progress on your story will typically be 4-6 pages (roughly ~1600-2500 words) a week depending on the current volume of commissions. Some weeks more progress will be done, but larger workloads might see only ~1,000 words done weekly. If progress seems slower than it should be, then you’re welcome to get in contact with me and ask about the lack of progress. (Most times, it’s as simple as recovery from an illness or an unexpected trip out of town.)
Content Guidelines
I am very flexible when it comes to writing commissions, but there are times where I will refuse to accept a commission if I find myself unable to write for the content, whether due to a lack of knowledge or moral standing. Some examples of reasons I would reject your commission:
Out of Character: I will not write characters who would act wildly outside of how they are portrayed in the source material. While changes to them might be made depending on the story or AU, I will do my best to keep to how they come across in the source material (unless fanon is better).
Overpowered Characters: Depending on the story I might reject it if the main character is overpowered to the degree that their existence breaks the very foundations of the world (whether being too strong, too big, etc.) Always feel free to ask beforehand, as this guideline has a lot of wiggle room.
NSFW: While I will write sexual content, I might reject specific scenes depending on what’s happening due to a lack of comfort with writing specific kinks, fetishes etc.
Posting: You’re free to post the story you commissioned to any of your profiles as long as you give credit back to either this website, Andrew Anderson, or ibelieveinahappilyeverafter. Many of the commission pieces I do will be posted to this website and online accounts, but I will ask beforehand if it’s focused on YOUR original characters. Otherwise, all stories can and will be used as portfolio pieces to be shown on request.
Note: You are always welcome to ask if what you want written might fall under one of these guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the story I want written have to be original? Not at all. I accept commissions for fanfiction as well. If you’re not certain whether I write for your fandom then please feel free to contact me ahead of time and ask. I am always happy to do research (such as watch a couple episodes or read some of the manga) in order to get a better grasp on the characters. (Yes, this does mean I once watched all the John Wick movies in 2 days.)
I have no idea how to explain my story idea. What do I do? You’re not alone in having a hard time explaining what sort of story you want written. Under my Contact page you’ll find templates that will help you organize your thoughts and explain what you want written.
What if I want my story done by a specific date? If you want your story done for a specific date in case it’s a gift for somebody’s birthday or a holiday, then be sure to specify that in your initial email. Many times, I can work with you to have it completed by then.
I have a question that’s not answered here. If you have a question that’s not answered here or on the Prices and Payment page, then please feel free to email me and ask at a.alexanderson.writer@gmail.com
You can sell writing commissions of fanfiction? Yes. Under a copyright disclaimer all fanfiction commissions that I write for works that are outside of the public domain are considered transformative works and are not, in any way, meant or designed to be copyright infringements. I do not have any claim to the rights of these works, nor do I attempt to claim any of them. Any piece written for a client is considered a work of art. If the copyright holder of the fandom in question asks for the piece to be removed, it will be.