The two costs to separate
Digital marketing has two parts. The agency fee pays for planning, creative, setup, management and reporting. The ad spend is the money that goes to Meta, Google or other platforms. Always ask for these two numbers separately. Ad spend should be paid directly from your own account.
What drives the agency fee
The fee depends on how many services you need (social media, ads, website, SEO), how much creative work is involved (reels, shoots, design), how many platforms are managed and how often you want reports and meetings.
How agencies price their work
Most agencies use one of three models: a monthly retainer for ongoing work, a project fee for a website or a campaign with an end date, or a fee linked to results. Retainers are common for social media and ads, projects for websites and events. Be careful with fees linked only to results, because they can push an agency toward numbers that look good but are not profitable.
How to size your ad budget
Work backwards. Decide how many leads or orders you want, and what you can afford to pay for each. Leads you want multiplied by your target cost per lead gives you a monthly ad budget. If the number is too high, lower the target volume or improve your offer and landing page first.
What a good proposal includes
A clear list of what is included, who does the work, the target you will be measured on, how reporting works and how to end the contract. If any of these are missing, ask.
How we quote
We do not publish a one-size price, because the right scope depends on your goal. We start with a free audit of your pages, ads and website, then give you a written quote that separates our fee from your ad spend. You can also look at our package outline and ask for an audit.
Common questions
Can I start with a small budget?
Yes. Start with one goal and one campaign, measure it properly and add more as results come in.