Booking software vs. the paper diary | The Beauty Bloggers

The Beauty Bloggers, aka Natalie Thompson & Rachel Jenkinson, discuss beauty booking systems & what works for their needs…

Nat and Rach are ‘The Beauty Bloggers‘ and have over 21 years experience in the beauty sector between them.

Their aim is to discuss real issues that beauty professionals face.

Passionate and hard-working, the duo describe themselves as ‘down to earth’ and want to create a fun and safe space for pros to support one another.

Follow them on Instagram: @the.beautybloggers

Are you old school pen and paper, online or a bit of both?

Has Covid-19 made you rethink what booking system you use and how you contact your clients? This is something we have both implemented since the first lockdown. We both have a slight obsession with stationery and we never thought we would convert to an online booking system, but now we have become the queens of of tech!

We both use different booking systems for different reasons, Rachel uses a paid booking system as she needs more detailed consultation forms for her semi-permanent make-up clients which they can sign prior to their appointment, whereas my booking system is free as I was just looking for an online diary and is easier for me to schedule teaching days, but most importantly our clients love that we have converted.

We love the fact that booking software has saved us time. We have current and up-to-date consultations, clients get appointment reminders and it’s more environmentally friendly.

We still love the pen and paper, but it has changed how we can manage our time in regard to our business and how we plan our day, even if it’s just blocking time out for a much needed lunch break! Bookings software means we can scheduling holidays or days and times we are in the salon. Once they are in the diary, we’re less inclined to rub them out or write over them.

We know a few therapists that use both paper diary and online, but we would find that a bit much to manage as it is so easy to make that fatal error of double booking. It all boils down to what works for you and your business. If you like a paper diary and it works for you then don’t fix what isn’t broken.

We totally understand there are pros and cons to both, but if you fancy ‘a try before you buy’, most online booking systems offer a free trial. This would be the ideal time to input all the details while we are still in lockdown, plus its a good way of checking in with your clients and making sure you have their up-to-date details ready for when we are back in action.

If we can do it, anyone can!

Follow Nat & Rach on Instagram: @the.beautybloggers