How do I add online booking to my website?

You can either use a separate booking tool like Calendly and embed it, use a website builder with built-in booking (like Squarespace or ChilledSites), or add a booking widget to your existing site. All-in-one solutions are simplest.

How much does a booking website cost?

Separate booking tools cost £10-30/month on top of your website. All-in-one solutions like ChilledSites include booking from £5/month or one-time from £8. Full custom booking systems cost £1,000-5,000.

What features should a booking website have?

Essential features: service menu with prices, real-time availability, automated confirmations, reminder emails/SMS, and calendar sync. Nice-to-haves: deposit collection, staff assignment, and customer accounts.

Service Business Guide

Build a Website with Online Booking (No More Phone Tag)

90% of customers prefer booking online. Missed calls mean missed revenue. Here's how to take bookings 24/7.

The Reality for Service Businesses

Every time you can't answer the phone, you might be losing a booking. An online booking system works while you're with clients, after hours, and on weekends.

Why Your Service Business Needs Online Booking

Customers Book When Convenient

Most people browse services in the evening. If they can't book then, they book with your competitor who lets them.

Reduces No-Shows

Automated reminders via email or SMS dramatically cut no-show rates. Some systems see 50%+ reduction.

Saves Phone Time

Stop interrupting sessions to answer booking calls. Let customers serve themselves while you focus on your work.

Looks Professional

Online booking signals you're an established, modern business - not a one-person operation figuring it out.

What a Good Booking Website Includes

Service Menu

List services with prices and durations

Real-Time Availability

Shows only times you're actually free

Customer Details

Capture name, email, phone, notes

Automated Confirmations

Instant email when they book

Reminder Emails/SMS

Reduce no-shows with reminders

Calendar Sync

Google Calendar, Outlook, Apple

Industries That Need Booking Websites

Hair Salons & Barbers

Beauty & Spa

Personal Trainers

Consultants & Coaches

Tradesmen

Photographers

Tutors

Therapists

Healthcare

Booking Systems Compared

Solution	Monthly Cost	Complexity	Best For
Calendly (separate)	£10-20/mo + website	Need to embed	Consultants
Squarespace	£20-40/mo	Template-based	Designers
Fresha (salon-specific)	Free + transaction fees	Platform lock-in	Salons only
ChilledSites	£5-20/mo or £8-50 one-time	AI-generated	Any service business

How to Set Up Your Booking Website

Define Your Services

List what you offer, how long each takes, and your prices. Be specific - "Women's Cut & Style (45 min)" not just "Haircut".

Set Your Availability

Configure working hours, days off, and any buffer time between appointments you need.

Connect Your Calendar

Sync with Google Calendar or similar so personal commitments block out booking times automatically.

Accept Deposits (Optional)

Reduce no-shows by requiring a deposit at booking. Even a small amount increases commitment.

Build Your Booking Website

Take appointments 24/7. Reduce no-shows. Stop missing calls. All from £5/month.

Start Building Now