I posted a previous comment here and it was deleted without my notification. I feel strongly enough that I'm going to repost, though I assume it'll be deleted as well.
I met with Mike back in July to design a memorial tattoo. He was thoroughly bored with me, my concept, and did not bother to show me his portfolio. I asked for a quick sketch so that I would know that we were on the same page design-wise, but Mike assured me that he would not work on a sketch until the day of my appointment. My mediocre consultation was followed by he and the receptionist trying to pressure me into making an appointment (and paying the $50 deposit).
I don't know what other business/industry would ask for a deposit without a preview of the product and get away with it. Ridiculous.