I think a retainer fee is a bad idea and this isn't really what a retainer fee is for anyways, so it's kind of weird. Your client doesn't really care why you a

I think a retainer fee is a bad idea and this isn't really what a retainer fee is for anyways, so it's kind of weird. Your client doesn't really care why you are freelancing and unless you are like the best of the best at what you do, I'd urge you not to bring this up as part of your pricing strategy. It makes it sound like you are a pita to work with. I only do day rate. No hourly, no project based pricing. Covers this kind of situation perfectly. And, of course they want you available during office hours.