Business Growth
❓ Question
What's everyone's policy on last-minute cancellations?
Leah Malik
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👑 VIP
Lash Artist · Wakefield · 3mo ago
I had six no-shows last Monday alone and I am absolutely done with it. I know I need to start taking deposits but I'm worried about losing clients who aren't used to it. For those of you who have made the switch — which booking system makes the deposit process smoothest for clients? I want it to feel normal and professional, not like I don't trust them.
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For multi-staff Phorest is excellent. Each person has their own colour-coded calendar, you can set individual hours and services, and clients book with a specific person or with 'any available' if you prefer. I've got three staff on it and it's really simple to manage from the dashboard.
#1
I switched from BookPin to Trafft about a year ago and the main thing I noticed was the client-facing booking page. Trafft's is just cleaner and clients seem to complete the booking without getting confused halfway through. If you're worried about looking professional, that matters more than you'd think.
#2
I've been using Treatwell for 3 months and honestly I'd recommend it for a small barbershop. The setup took me about half a day but once it's done it just runs. Clients get automatic reminders, you can take deposits, and the calendar view is really clear. Give the free trial a go — you'll know within a week if it works for you.
#3
I've been using BookPin for 6 months and honestly I'd recommend it for a small hair salon. The setup took me about half a day but once it's done it just runs. Clients get automatic reminders, you can take deposits, and the calendar view is really clear. Give the free trial a go — you'll know within a week if it works for you.
#4
I was asking myself this a year ago. Best decision I ever made was just picking one and starting. Square Appointments has a free plan that's genuinely functional. Start there, learn the system, then upgrade when you actually need the paid features. Don't let the choice paralysis stop you from just getting on with it.
#5
The waiting list feature on Fresha is genuinely good — better than any other system I've tried. When a cancellation comes in it automatically notifies the next person on the waiting list. Has filled three last-minute slots for me this month alone.
#6
For deposits specifically, Acuity Scheduling is really smooth. The client gets a card payment screen as part of the booking flow — it doesn't feel like a separate step or like you're being suspicious of them. I take £15 on everything and no one has complained since I set it up properly.
#7