Category: Salon Customers

The salon industry is changing fast. Customers expect 24/7 online booking. Walk-in appointments are becoming rare. And if your salon doesn’t have a professional website with seamless booking, you’re losing clients every single day.

But here’s what hasn’t changed:

If you have the right website platform with solid Square Appointments integration, you can still capture bookings around the clock and grow your business.

Not by relying on phone calls or sticky note schedules, but by making it dead simple for clients to book with you online, pay deposits, and get automatic reminders.

The best website builders for hair salons help you do exactly that:

• Showcase your work with stunning portfolio galleries
• Accept bookings and payments 24/7 (even while you sleep)
• Send automated reminders to reduce no-shows
• Manage your schedule from anywhere
• Build trust with professional online presence

These are the platforms my team and I recommend for salon owners who want to modernize their booking process and increase revenue.

The best part?

These solutions work great for salons of any size. From single-chair operations to multi-location chains.

My Top 3 Website Builders with Square Integration for Hair Salons

1. Squarespace: Beautiful templates and native Acuity Scheduling integration
2. Wix: Drag-and-drop simplicity with built-in booking tools plus Square embedding
3. WordPress: Ultimate flexibility with specialized salon booking plugins

Squarespace

Best for salons that want professional design with integrated scheduling

Pricing: From $16 per month; 14-day free trial

Squarespace consistently delivers the most visually stunning websites in the industry. For hair salons where aesthetics matter tremendously, this platform is hard to beat.

But what makes Squarespace especially powerful for salons is that they own Acuity Scheduling. This means you get world-class appointment booking built right into your website.

Native Acuity Scheduling Integration

Since Squarespace acquired Acuity in 2019, the integration between the two platforms is seamless. You don’t need third-party widgets or complex embedding.

When you sign up for Squarespace, you automatically get access to Acuity’s scheduling features. This includes everything you need for a professional salon booking system:

• 24/7 online booking with real-time availability
• Automated email and SMS reminders
• Payment processing through Stripe, PayPal, and Square
• Staff scheduling and resource management
• Client intake forms and policies
• Package and membership options

The booking system displays beautifully on your Squarespace site and matches your design perfectly.

Embed Square Appointments if Needed

If you’re already using Square Appointments and want to stick with it, Squarespace makes embedding easy. You can add the Square booking widget using their Code Block feature.

Just copy your Square Appointments embed code from your dashboard and paste it into a Code Block on any page. The widget will display seamlessly within your site’s design.

Stunning Hair Salon Templates

Squarespace offers several templates specifically designed for beauty businesses. Each template features:

• Large, high-quality image galleries to showcase your work
• Clean, modern layouts that focus attention on your services
• Mobile-responsive design that looks perfect on phones
• SEO optimization to help clients find you online

The Camino and Fillmore templates are particularly popular with salon owners because they emphasize visual content and include prominent booking buttons.

Pros & Cons

Squarespace Alternative: Acuity Scheduling Standalone

You can also use Acuity Scheduling as a standalone solution without building a full website. Acuity provides a branded booking page that clients can visit directly.

This works well if you already have a basic website and just need professional scheduling. However, combining Acuity with a full Squarespace site gives you better SEO, more professional appearance, and the ability to showcase your work alongside your booking system.

Wix

Best for salon owners who want maximum design control with easy drag-and-drop editing

Pricing: Free plan available; premium plans from $17 per month

Wix gives you complete creative freedom to design your salon website exactly how you want it. The drag-and-drop editor is incredibly intuitive, making it perfect for salon owners who want to update their sites regularly with new photos and services.

Built-in Wix Bookings System

Wix comes with its own professional booking system called Wix Bookings. This handles everything most salons need:

• Online appointment scheduling with calendar integration
• Staff management for multi-stylist salons
• Service packages and pricing tiers
• Automated confirmations and reminders
• Payment processing through multiple gateways
• Client management and history tracking

The system integrates perfectly with your Wix website and includes a mobile app so you can manage bookings on the go.

Easy Square Appointments Embedding

If you prefer to use Square Appointments, Wix makes embedding simple through their HTML iframe feature.

From your site editor, click the + Add icon, then More, then HTML iframe. Drag the embed box where you want it to appear, then paste your Square Appointments embed code.

You can resize and position the booking widget exactly where it looks best on your page.

Massive Template Selection

Wix offers the largest selection of hair salon templates of any website builder. They have dedicated categories for:

• Hair salons and barbershops
• Beauty salons and spas
• Nail salons and studios
• Multi-service beauty businesses

Each template is fully customizable. You can change colors, fonts, layouts, and add your own branding without any coding knowledge.

Advanced Features for Growing Salons

As your salon grows, Wix can scale with you:

• Wix Stores for selling hair care products online
• Social media integration to showcase your work from Instagram
• Email marketing to nurture client relationships
• SEO tools to help new clients find you in search results
• Analytics to track your website performance

Pros & Cons

Wix Alternative: Square Online

Square Online is Square’s own website builder, designed to integrate seamlessly with all Square products including Square Appointments.

It’s free to use and includes built-in e-commerce features. However, the design options are more limited than Wix, and it’s only available in select countries (US, Canada, UK, Australia).

Square Online works best if you’re already heavily invested in the Square ecosystem and want everything in one platform.

WordPress

Best for tech-savvy salon owners who want unlimited customization and powerful features

Pricing: Free (plus hosting costs starting around $10-15 per month)

WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet. It’s the most flexible platform available, which means you can create exactly the salon website you envision.

The learning curve is steeper than Squarespace or Wix, but the payoff in customization and functionality is enormous.

Specialized Salon Booking Plugins

WordPress shines because of its vast plugin ecosystem. For salon bookings, you have several excellent options that integrate with Square:

Salon Booking System is specifically designed for hair salons, barbershops, and beauty businesses. It includes Square as one of 30+ supported payment gateways, along with features like:

• Multi-location management
• Staff scheduling and assignment
• Service packages and pricing
• SMS notifications and email marketing
• Customer management and history
• Mobile-responsive booking forms

MotoPress Appointment Booking offers a more general booking solution that works great for salons. It includes direct Square Payments integration and features like:

• Hourly and daily appointment slots
• Recurring appointments for regular clients
• Google Calendar synchronization
• PayPal, Stripe, and Square payment processing
• Zoom integration for virtual consultations

Amelia is a premium booking plugin that many salon owners love. It supports Square payments and offers advanced features like:

• Group appointments for events
• Service packages and discounts
• WhatsApp integration
• Customizable booking forms
• Advanced reporting and analytics

Unlimited Design Possibilities

With WordPress, you’re not limited to pre-built templates. You can:

• Use any of thousands of free or premium themes
• Customize every aspect of your site’s design
• Add any functionality you need through plugins
• Optimize for search engines to attract new clients
• Scale to multiple locations or franchise operations

Popular salon themes include Beautycare, Hair Salon, and Wellness themes that come with booking integration built in.

Complete Control and Ownership

Unlike hosted platforms, with WordPress you own your website completely:

• Your data belongs to you
• You can switch hosting providers anytime
• No monthly platform fees (just hosting costs)
• No limitations on customization or functionality
• Full control over SEO and performance optimization

Pros & Cons

WordPress Alternative: Hosted WordPress.com

If you want WordPress functionality with less technical complexity, WordPress.com offers hosted WordPress sites with managed hosting and support.

The trade-off is less flexibility and higher costs than self-hosted WordPress, but you get the ease of a hosted platform with WordPress’s powerful features.

Other Tools That Make Your Salon Website Complete

Beyond your main website builder, you’ll want these additional tools to create a complete online presence:

• Google My Business for local search visibility and client reviews
• Instagram integration to showcase your latest work automatically
• Email marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact) for client retention
• Online payment processing beyond just appointment deposits
• Review management tools to encourage and display client testimonials

The website builder you choose depends on your priorities and technical comfort level.

Choose Squarespace if you want beautiful design with professional built-in booking and don’t mind paying more for premium features.

Choose Wix if you want maximum design flexibility with easy drag-and-drop editing and built-in booking options.

Choose WordPress if you want complete control, unlimited customization, and the most powerful salon-specific booking plugins available.

All three platforms integrate well with Square Appointments, so you can’t go wrong with any of these options.

The most important thing is to get started. Every day without online booking is revenue walking out the door.

Pick the platform that feels right for you, set up your booking system, and start capturing those 24/7 appointments that will grow your salon business.

Building trust as an independent hair stylist is everything. Your potential clients don’t know you yet. They can’t see your work until they book. And with so many stylists to choose from, they need proof you’re worth their time and money.

But here’s what makes all the difference:

If you have the right website with automated review widgets, you can showcase your credibility 24/7 without lifting a finger.

Not by manually copying and pasting testimonials, but by having fresh, authentic reviews flowing onto your site automatically. By letting satisfied clients do your marketing for you.

The best website builders for hair stylists help you do exactly that:

• Display real Google reviews automatically
• Collect new testimonials without manual work
• Show star ratings that boost credibility
• Convert browsers into booked appointments

These are the platforms I’ve tested extensively for independent hair stylists who want their websites to work as hard as they do.

The best part?

These tools still work incredibly well in today’s competitive beauty market. No matter if you’re just starting out or have an established client base.

My Top 3 Website Builders with Automated Review Widgets

1. Wix: Most comprehensive review widget ecosystem with automated collection
2. Squarespace: Premium design with powerful third-party review integrations
3. Shopify: Best for stylists selling products alongside services

Wix

Best for stylists who want the most review widget options and easiest automation

Pricing: From $17 per month; free plan available

I know everyone talks about Wix, but for hair stylists specifically, it’s genuinely the most powerful option. You get access to the largest selection of review apps, most of which work together seamlessly.

But I don’t use Wix for everything.

I use the best tool for each job. And Wix REALLY excels when it comes to automated review collection and display.

Automated Review Collection That Actually Works

Wix’s app market has multiple review solutions, but my favorite is the built-in Wix Reviews system combined with third-party Google review widgets.

Here’s how it works: When a client books through your Wix site and completes their appointment, the system automatically sends them a review request email 14 days later. You can customize when this happens – maybe 7 days for a haircut, or 21 days for color work.

The email is personalized with their name and the specific service they received. When they click to leave a review, they’re taken to a branded page on your site that matches your styling perfectly.

Google Reviews That Update Automatically

The real magic happens when you add apps like Google Reviews PRO or ReviewsJet from the Wix App Market.

These connect directly to your Google Business Profile and pull in fresh reviews automatically. No manual updates needed. When someone leaves you a 5-star Google review after their blowout, it shows up on your website within hours.

I particularly love the Google Reviews PRO app because it lets you customize exactly how reviews appear – you can show them as a carousel on your homepage, a grid on your services page, or even as a floating badge that follows visitors around your site.

Multiple Review Sources in One Widget

Here’s where Wix gets really powerful: You can combine reviews from multiple sources into single widgets.

Apps like ReviewsJet let you pull reviews from Google, Yelp, Facebook, and even direct website reviews into one unified display. So when someone visits your booking page, they see your 4.9-star rating from 50+ reviews across all platforms.

This is incredibly valuable for independent stylists because your reviews might be spread across different platforms depending on how clients found you.

Pros & Cons

Wix Alternative: WordPress

WordPress offers unlimited customization through plugins, but requires more technical knowledge. The Rich Shortcodes for Google Reviews plugin is excellent, but you’ll need to handle hosting, security, and updates yourself.

For most independent stylists, Wix’s simplicity wins out unless you have web development experience or budget to hire help.

 Squarespace

Best for stylists who prioritize beautiful design and want premium review integrations

Pricing: From $18 per month; 14-day free trial

Squarespace is where you go when design matters most. If you’re a stylist who works with high-end clients or specializes in editorial work, the visual impact of Squarespace templates is unmatched.

The review widget options aren’t as numerous as Wix, but the quality is exceptional.

Premium Review Widgets That Match Your Aesthetic

The best review solution for Squarespace is EmbedSocial, which offers a direct API integration with Google Business Profile. Their widgets automatically pull your latest reviews and display them in clean, modern layouts that actually enhance your site’s design.

Unlike basic review widgets that look tacked-on, EmbedSocial’s Squarespace integration feels native. You can choose from carousel, grid, or floating badge layouts, and everything adapts to your site’s color scheme automatically.

Advanced Review Management Features

What sets Squarespace review solutions apart is the management depth. With tools like Trustmary, you can:

• Import reviews from Google, Yelp, Facebook, and Tripadvisor automatically
• Create custom review collection campaigns
• Set up automated email sequences for review requests
• Generate review schema markup that shows star ratings in Google search results

This last point is huge for local SEO. When someone searches “hair stylist near me,” your listing can show with star ratings, making you stand out from competitors.

Multi-Location Review Management

If you work at multiple salons or have plans to expand, Squarespace review widgets handle this beautifully. You can set up different review feeds for different locations and display location-specific testimonials on relevant pages.

Pros & Cons

Squarespace Alternative: Webflow

Webflow offers even more design flexibility but has a steeper learning curve. Review widget integration requires custom code work, making it better suited for stylists with technical skills or development budget.

Shopify

Best for stylists who sell hair products or beauty items alongside services

Pricing: From $29 per month; 14-day free trial

If you’re an independent stylist who also sells professional hair products, styling tools, or your own product line, Shopify is unbeatable. The e-commerce functionality is world-class, and the review widgets are specifically designed to boost product sales.

Product-Focused Review Automation

Shopify’s review ecosystem centers around product reviews, but it works beautifully for service-based businesses too. Apps like Fera and Judge.me automatically collect reviews for both products and services.

When someone buys your recommended shampoo through your site, they get an automated review request. When they book a color service, they get a separate request. The system tracks everything and displays relevant reviews on the right pages.

Service + Product Review Synergy

Here’s where Shopify really shines: You can showcase reviews that mention both your services AND the products you recommend.

For example, if a client raves about their balayage and mentions they’re loving the Olaplex treatment you used, that review can appear on both your color services page AND your Olaplex product page.

This creates a powerful credibility loop where product reviews support your service credibility and vice versa.

Advanced Review Analytics

Shopify’s review apps provide detailed analytics on review performance. You can see which services get the most positive feedback, which products clients rave about, and even track how reviews impact your conversion rates.

This data helps you make smarter business decisions – maybe you discover clients love your curly cut technique more than you realized, or that a specific product line consistently gets mentioned in 5-star reviews.

Pros & Cons

Shopify Alternative: Square Online

Square Online offers integrated booking and e-commerce for free, but the review widget options are more limited. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious stylists who want basic functionality.

Other Tools I Use in My Hair Stylist Workflow

Building a successful independent hair stylist website requires more than just review widgets. Here are additional tools that work seamlessly with these platforms:

• Acuity Scheduling for advanced booking management beyond basic website booking
• Mailchimp for email marketing campaigns to past clients
• Canva for creating branded social media content that drives website traffic
• Google My Business for maintaining the review sources that feed your widgets

These three platforms represent the best options for independent hair stylists who understand that automated reviews are essential for growth.

Start with Wix if you want the most comprehensive review options and easiest setup. Choose Squarespace if premium design is your priority and you’re targeting upscale clients. Go with Shopify if you’re serious about selling products alongside services.

Beyond your main platform choice, focus on setting up automated review collection from day one. The sooner you start gathering testimonials, the faster you’ll build the social proof that converts website visitors into loyal clients.

The beauty spa industry is transforming rapidly. Clients expect seamless online experiences. They want to book treatments from their phones, access their appointment history, and manage their spa packages anytime. And if your spa doesn’t offer a professional client portal with mobile-responsive design, you’re losing customers to competitors who do.

But here’s what remains constant:

If you have the right mobile-responsive website builder with robust client portal features, you can deliver the premium digital experience your spa clients expect.

Not by juggling multiple apps or forcing clients to call during business hours, but by providing a unified platform where they can book, reschedule, view their treatment history, and manage their memberships seamlessly.

The best mobile-responsive builders for beauty spas help you achieve exactly that:

• Create client portals that work perfectly on all devices
• Allow 24/7 booking and account management from smartphones
• Store client treatment histories and preferences
• Process payments and manage spa packages digitally
• Send automated reminders and follow-ups
• Build lasting client relationships through personalized experiences

These are the platforms that spa owners consistently choose when they want to modernize their client experience and increase retention.

The best part?

These solutions scale perfectly from boutique day spas to large wellness centers with multiple locations.

My Top 3 Mobile-Responsive Builders with Client Portal Features for Beauty Spas

1. Wix: Complete client management system with mobile apps and 24/7 portal access
2. Squarespace: Premium design with integrated Acuity client dashboards
3. WordPress: Ultimate customization with Amelia’s comprehensive client portal features

Wix

Best for spas that want comprehensive client management with built-in mobile apps

Pricing: Free plan available; premium plans from $17 per month

Wix leads the way in providing complete client portal solutions for beauty spas. Their Wix Bookings system isn’t just about scheduling – it creates a full client management ecosystem that works seamlessly across all devices.

What sets Wix apart for spa businesses is the combination of professional website building tools with enterprise-level client portal functionality.

Complete Wix Bookings Client Management System

Wix Bookings transforms your website into a 24/7 spa reception desk with comprehensive client portal features:

Client Profiles and History Management:

• View member profiles with complete treatment history
• Track payment status and appointment notes
• Monitor client preferences and special requirements
• Access detailed booking analytics and attendance records

Mobile-Responsive Client Dashboard:

• Clients can book treatments from any device
• Reschedule or cancel appointments independently
• View upcoming and past appointments
• Manage membership plans and package credits

Advanced Membership and Package Options:

• Offer free trials and membership plans
• Create punch cards for treatment packages
• Set up subscription-based wellness programs
• Provide limited-time discounts and loyalty rewards

Customized Mobile App for Clients

One of Wix’s most powerful features for spas is the ability to create a customized mobile app for your clients. This isn’t just a mobile-responsive website – it’s a dedicated app where clients can:

• Book and pay for services on the go
• Chat with other members (great for wellness communities)
• Receive push notifications about appointments
• Stay updated on spa promotions and events

This creates a premium, high-end experience that matches the luxury positioning of most beauty spas.

Staff Management and Performance Tracking

Wix Bookings excels at managing spa teams with multiple service providers:

• Set custom working hours for each therapist
• Sync individual Google calendars automatically
• Track staff performance and client feedback
• Manage roles and permissions for different team levels
• Handle time-off requests and availability changes

Automated Client Communication

The system handles all client communication automatically:

SMS and Email Reminders:

• Send appointment confirmations instantly
• Remind clients about upcoming treatments
• Follow up after services for feedback
• Notify about membership renewals or package expirations

Personalized Client Experiences:

• Welcome new clients with automated sequences
• Send birthday and anniversary offers
• Recommend treatments based on history
• Alert VIP clients about exclusive services

Pros & Cons

Wix Alternative: Square for Spas

Square for Beauty offers spa-specific features with client portal functionality. Square’s system includes drag-and-drop calendar management, automated confirmations, and client check-in features.

However, Square’s website building capabilities are more limited than Wix, and it’s primarily focused on payment processing rather than comprehensive client experience management.

Squarespace

Best for upscale spas that prioritize elegant design with sophisticated client portal functionality

Pricing: From $16 per month; 14-day free trial

Squarespace delivers the most visually stunning websites in the industry, making it perfect for luxury spas and wellness centers where aesthetics are paramount. Since acquiring Acuity Scheduling, they’ve integrated world-class client portal features directly into their platform.

Integrated Acuity Scheduling Client Portal

Squarespace’s biggest advantage for spas is the seamless integration with Acuity Scheduling, which provides comprehensive client portal functionality:

Client Dashboard Features:

• Self-service appointment booking and rescheduling
• Complete treatment history and notes access
• Package and membership management
• Secure payment processing and receipt storage

Mobile-Responsive Client Experience:

• Perfect smartphone and tablet optimization
• Intuitive touch-friendly booking interface
• Fast loading times on mobile data connections
• Consistent branding across all devices

Advanced Client Communication:

• Automated email and SMS appointment reminders
• Custom intake forms for treatment preferences
• Post-treatment follow-up sequences
• Personalized wellness recommendations

Premium Spa Template Designs

Squarespace offers templates specifically designed for spas and wellness businesses that integrate beautifully with client portal features:

Spa Massage Template:

• Service sections with booking integration
• Package highlights and testimonials
• Staff profiles with individual booking calendars
• Calm, healing color schemes

Wellness Template:

• Clean, minimalist design approach
• Easy service menu navigation
• Client testimonial showcases
• Professional photography integration

Beauty Salon Template:

• Before/after gallery displays
• Detailed service descriptions
• Team member spotlights
• Modern, sophisticated layouts

Client Intake and Preference Management

Squarespace excels at collecting and managing detailed client information:

Custom Intake Forms:

• Health questionnaires for treatments
• Preference tracking for personalized service
• Allergy and sensitivity documentation
• Treatment goals and expectations

Client Relationship Building:

• Automated welcome sequences for new clients
• Birthday and anniversary recognition
• Loyalty program integration
• VIP client special treatment tracking

Advanced Analytics and Reporting

The platform provides detailed insights into client behavior and business performance:

• Client retention and frequency analysis
• Most popular treatments and time slots
• Revenue tracking by service type
• Staff performance metrics
• Mobile vs desktop booking patterns

Pros & Cons

Squarespace Alternative: Weebly

Weebly offers simpler client portal integration through third-party booking apps. While more affordable than Squarespace, it doesn’t provide the same level of design sophistication or integrated client management features.

WordPress

Best for spas that want complete control over client portal functionality and unlimited customization

Pricing: Free (plus hosting costs from $10-15 per month); Premium plugins from $59-200 per year

WordPress powers more websites than any other platform because of its incredible flexibility. For beauty spas, this means you can create exactly the client portal experience you envision using specialized plugins that rival enterprise-level spa management systems.

Amelia: Enterprise-Level Client Portal Plugin

Amelia stands out as the most comprehensive booking and client portal solution available for WordPress spas:

Complete Client Management System:

• Detailed client profiles with treatment histories
• Preference tracking and notes management
• Automated appointment confirmations and reminders
• Mobile-responsive client dashboard access

Advanced Client Portal Features:

• Self-service appointment booking and rescheduling
• Package and membership management
• Payment history and invoice access
• Treatment progress tracking

Multi-Location and Staff Management:

• Separate calendars for different spa locations
• Individual therapist scheduling and availability
• Staff performance tracking and analytics
• Role-based access for different team members

Mobile-First Client Experience

Amelia ensures perfect mobile responsiveness across all client portal features:

Smartphone Optimization:

• Touch-friendly booking interface
• Fast loading on mobile data
• Intuitive appointment management
• Easy payment processing on mobile devices

Client Mobile Dashboard:

• Quick access to upcoming appointments
• Treatment history viewing
• Package credit tracking
• Direct communication with spa staff

Advanced Spa-Specific Features

WordPress with Amelia offers features specifically designed for beauty spas:

Treatment Package Management:

• Multi-service spa day packages
• Membership tier management
• Credit-based treatment systems
• Group booking capabilities for couples treatments

Wellness Program Integration:

• Recurring appointment scheduling
• Progress tracking for treatment series
• Automated wellness reminders
• Custom wellness plan creation

Premium Client Communication:

• SMS, email, and WhatsApp notifications
• Automated follow-up sequences
• Personalized treatment recommendations
• Special occasion outreach (birthdays, anniversaries)

Unlimited Customization Possibilities

With WordPress, you’re not limited to pre-built templates:

Complete Design Control:

• Custom spa branding throughout client portal
• Unique booking flow design
• Personalized client dashboard layouts
• Integration with any design theme

Advanced Functionality:

• Integration with any payment processor
• Custom reporting and analytics
• Third-party wellness app integrations
• E-commerce for spa products and gift cards

Enterprise-Level Analytics

WordPress spa solutions provide detailed business intelligence:

• Client lifetime value tracking
• Treatment popularity and profitability analysis
• Staff utilization and performance metrics
• Seasonal booking pattern analysis
• Mobile vs desktop usage patterns

Pros & Cons

WordPress Alternative: WooCommerce Bookings

WooCommerce Bookings offers basic client portal features through WooCommerce account pages. While more limited than Amelia, it integrates well with existing WooCommerce spa product stores.

Additional Tools That Enhance Your Spa’s Digital Experience

Beyond your main website and client portal, these tools help create a complete digital ecosystem:

• Google My Business optimization for local spa discovery
• Instagram Shopping integration for spa product sales
• Email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Klaviyo) for client retention
• Review management systems to showcase client satisfaction
• Loyalty program apps to reward repeat clients

The website builder you choose depends on your spa’s priorities, technical comfort level, and growth plans.

Choose Wix if you want the most comprehensive client management system with mobile apps and don’t mind paying premium prices for advanced features.

Choose Squarespace if you prioritize elegant design with sophisticated client portal integration and want seamless Acuity Scheduling functionality.

Choose WordPress if you want complete control over your client portal experience, unlimited customization options, and enterprise-level features at affordable prices.

All three platforms deliver excellent mobile-responsive experiences and robust client portal functionality.

The most important step is getting started. Every day without a professional client portal is missed opportunities for client retention and premium service delivery.

Choose the platform that aligns with your spa’s vision, implement comprehensive client portal features, and start providing the digital wellness experience your clients deserve.

Building a nail salon website shouldn’t be harder than perfecting a French manicure. You need clients to find you online. You need to showcase your stunning nail art. And you absolutely need an easy way for customers to book appointments without playing phone tag.

But here’s the problem:

Most website builders are either too basic (making your salon look amateur) or too complicated (requiring a computer science degree to manage your service menu).

What you need is something in between. A platform that gives you the visual control to match your artistic vision while handling the practical stuff – booking, pricing, galleries – without breaking your budget or your sanity.

The best drag-and-drop platforms for nail salons do exactly that:

• Create stunning visual galleries that showcase your nail art
• Build service menus that clearly display treatments and pricing
• Integrate booking systems so clients can schedule appointments 24/7
• Work perfectly on mobile (where most clients will find you)
• Include templates designed specifically for beauty businesses

These are the platforms my team uses when building sites for nail salons, spas, and beauty businesses across the country.

(And yes, they all work great even if you’ve never built a website before)

The best part?

Each platform offers templates specifically designed for nail salons, with built-in service menu layouts and booking functionality ready to go.

My Top Website Platforms for Nail Salons

1. Wix: Best all-around platform with extensive beauty templates and built-in booking
2. Squarespace: Perfect for visual showcase with elegant templates and Acuity integration
3. WordPress + Elementor: Most flexible option for custom designs and advanced features

Wix

Best for nail salon owners who want everything built-in without technical headaches

Pricing: From $17 per month; free plan available

I know Wix gets mentioned in every “best website builder” list, but for nail salons specifically, it’s genuinely hard to beat. The platform was practically built for beauty businesses.

Here’s why it works so well for nail salons:

Extensive Beauty & Salon Template Library

Wix offers dedicated beauty and hair website templates with drag-and-drop customization, and many are specifically designed for nail salons. You’ll find templates with elegant color schemes, gallery layouts perfect for nail art photos, and service menu sections already built in.

The templates aren’t just pretty – they’re functional. Most include:

• Pre-built service menu layouts
• Client testimonial sections
• Instagram integration to showcase your work
• Contact and booking sections
• Mobile-optimized designs

Built-In Wix Bookings System

The real game-changer is Wix Bookings, which is specifically tailored for beauty industry professionals including nail salons. You can:

• Set up different appointment types (manicures, pedicures, nail art, etc.)
• Create service add-ons like “nail design and special nail polish” or “relaxation extras”
• Accept payments online
• Send automatic confirmation emails
• Manage staff schedules if you have multiple technicians

The booking system integrates seamlessly with your website, so clients can book directly from your service menu page.

Visual Drag-and-Drop Editor That Actually Works

With Wix, you work in a visual editor, controlling exactly what you get – without a line of code. You can drag and drop elements anywhere on the page, which is perfect when you want to create unique layouts that match your salon’s personality.

Want to add a before-and-after gallery? Drag it in. Need to update your service prices? Click and edit. The visual approach means you see exactly what your clients will see as you build.

Pros & Cons

Wix Alternative: GoDaddy Website Builder

GoDaddy offers straightforward appointment management tools for service-based businesses such as hair salons and includes social media management tools. However, Wix offers more customization options and a much larger selection of beauty-specific templates. GoDaddy’s 7-day trial starts at $9.99/month.

Squarespace

Best for nail salons that prioritize stunning visual design and professional aesthetics

Pricing: From $18 per month; 14-day free trial available

Squarespace has built its reputation on creating beautiful websites, and for nail salons where visual appeal is everything, it’s an excellent choice.

Elegant Templates Built for Visual Businesses

Squarespace templates for spas and salons are chosen for their elegant designs, calming aesthetics, and built-in features that support business growth. Templates are specifically designed with beauty businesses in mind:

• Glamour Template: Comes with built-in pages for services, about, and booking, with sleek design and drag-and-drop customization that strikes the balance between high-end beauty branding and practical functionality
• Beauty Salon Template: Ideal for showcasing services, before-and-after galleries, and client reviews, with modern layouts built to convert visitors
• Wellness Template: Clean and functional design perfect for creating an calming, trustworthy online presence

Powerful Built-in Scheduling with Acuity

Squarespace supports built-in scheduling tools like Acuity Scheduling (now Squarespace Scheduling) where you can let clients book spa treatments, massages, or salon appointments online with automated confirmations.

The scheduling system is incredibly robust:

• Multiple service types and durations
• Staff scheduling if you have multiple technicians
• Automated email reminders
• Payment collection at booking
• Client intake forms

Mobile-First Design

All Squarespace 7.1 templates are fully responsive, so your spa or salon site will look great on phones and tablets — which is essential since many clients book services from mobile.

This is crucial for nail salons since most clients will discover you through Instagram or local searches on their phones.

Service Menu and Gallery Features

Most templates already include testimonial blocks and gallery pages. You can upload photos, add star ratings, or embed reviews from Google or Yelp for extra credibility.

The gallery features are perfect for nail art portfolios, and you can organize them by service type (gel nails, acrylics, nail art, etc.).

Pros & Cons

Squarespace Alternative: Webador

With Webador, every element you drag and drop onto your page automatically snaps to a grid, which ensures your layout stays uncluttered and visually attractive. However, customization options are quite limited compared to Squarespace’s extensive design controls.

WordPress + Elementor

Best for nail salons that want maximum customization and don’t mind a steeper learning curve

Pricing: WordPress is free; Elementor Pro from $59/year; hosting from $5-15/month

For nail salons that want complete control over their website design and functionality, WordPress with Elementor is the most powerful option.

Nail Salon-Specific Themes and Templates

TemplateMonster offers 40+ nail salon WordPress themes starting from $24, featuring simple, fast, and responsive templates for nail salons, nail masters, nail accessories shops, and nail masterclasses.

Elementor offers template kits specifically for hair and beauty salons that include styling for nail services, with professional image galleries and service menu layouts.

Advanced Service Menu Builder

Elementor includes a Price Menu widget with ten readymade price list styles, allowing you to drag and drop service menus and customize them with product names, descriptions, and prices in real-time. You can:

• Create category tabs for different services (manicures, pedicures, nail art)
• Add images to each service
• Include detailed descriptions and pricing
• Link services directly to booking systems

Complete Design Freedom

Elementor has evolved far beyond a simple page builder to become a comprehensive website-building platform that provides complete creative control and unparalleled flexibility.

You can create:

• Custom gallery layouts for showcasing nail art
• Advanced booking forms
• Client testimonial sections
• Service comparison tables
• Before/after photo galleries
• Social media integration

Advanced Booking Integration

WordPress integrates with professional booking systems specifically designed for salons:

• Booked: Popular booking plugin that comes integrated with many nail salon themes
• WooCommerce: For selling nail products alongside services
• Advanced payment processing options

Pros & Cons

WordPress Alternative: Shopify

Shopify’s huge app store has over 8,000 free and paid apps with a great selection for beauty products, plus innovative picks such as Auglio Beauty Try-On Plugin. However, Shopify is primarily designed for e-commerce rather than service bookings, making it less ideal for appointment-based nail salons.

Other Tools That Make Running Your Nail Salon Website Easier

Beyond choosing the right platform, there are additional tools that can streamline your operations:

• Instagram Integration: All three platforms connect with Instagram to automatically display your latest nail art
• Google Business Profile: Essential for local SEO and client reviews
• Email Marketing: Built-in tools on Wix and Squarespace, or plugins for WordPress
• Analytics: Track which services generate the most interest and bookings

The platform you choose depends on your specific needs and technical comfort level.

Choose Wix if: You want everything built-in, have no technical experience, and need to get online quickly with professional results.

Choose Squarespace if: Visual design is your top priority, you want elegant templates, and you’re willing to invest in premium aesthetics.

Choose WordPress + Elementor if: You want maximum customization, don’t mind learning more technical aspects, and want the most cost-effective solution long-term.

All three platforms offer free trials or plans, so you can test them out with your actual content before committing. Start with the one that feels most intuitive to you – you can always migrate later if your needs change.

Your average ticket is stuck in neutral. Clients book basic cuts and leave money on the table. They skip the deep conditioning treatment that would make their hair healthier. They don’t know about the scalp massage that could turn their appointment into a luxury experience.

Meanwhile, you’re watching potential revenue walk out the door while competitors down the street are somehow charging 40% more for similar services.

But here’s what savvy salon owners have discovered:

The right online booking software doesn’t just schedule appointments. It automatically suggests add-ons and upgrades that clients actually want.

Not through pushy sales tactics, but by presenting relevant options at exactly the right moment in the booking process when clients are already committed to spending.

The best online booking software with built-in upsell prompts helps you do exactly that:

• Suggest complementary services during the booking flow
• Offer discounted add-ons that clients can’t resist
• Present membership options when clients are ready to commit
• Bundle services together for higher-value appointments

These are the platforms salon owners use to increase their average ticket price by 25-40% without any additional sales effort from their team.

The best part?

The upselling happens automatically during online booking, so clients choose their own upgrades without feeling pressured by staff.

My Top 3 Online Booking Software with Built-In Upsell Prompts

1. Meevo: Industry-leading add-on prompts that increase average ticket price and revenue
2. Fresha: Smart service upselling with up to 5 discounted add-ons during booking
3. GlossGenius: High-value booking optimization with bundling and upgrade features

Meevo

Best for salons focused on maximizing revenue per appointment

Pricing: Starting at $139 per month; custom demo available

Meevo was the first in the industry to offer online booking software, and they’ve perfected the art of automated upselling during the booking process.

When you enable Meevo add-ons, prompts are automatically included during online booking to encourage clients to add complementary products and services.

Salons using Meevo’s service and product add-on prompts have seen significant increases in their average ticket price and overall revenue.

Intelligent Add-On Suggestions

Meevo’s system analyzes what clients are booking and automatically suggests relevant add-ons that complement their chosen services.

For example, if a client books a haircut, the system might prompt them to add:

• A deep conditioning treatment for $25 extra
• A scalp massage upgrade for $15 additional
• Professional styling products to take home

The prompts appear naturally in the booking flow, presenting options as enhancements rather than separate purchases.

This approach feels helpful rather than sales-focused, leading to higher conversion rates on the suggested upgrades.

Product Recommendations During Booking

Beyond service add-ons, Meevo prompts clients to purchase retail products that complement their appointment.

The system connects the dots between services and products automatically:

• Color clients see suggestions for color-safe shampoo and conditioner
• Clients booking facial treatments get prompts for recommended skincare products
• Wedding party bookings trigger suggestions for makeup setting sprays and touch-up kits

These product recommendations link directly to detailed descriptions and pricing, making it easy for clients to add items to their appointment.

Streamlined Multi-Service Booking

Meevo’s booking system excels at handling complex appointments with multiple services and add-ons.

Clients can book themselves and up to five guests, with multiple services each, all in a single reservation.

The system automatically suggests complementary services for each person and calculates group discounts when applicable.

This feature works particularly well for bridal parties, mother-daughter appointments, and special occasion bookings where clients expect premium experiences.

Pros & Cons

Meevo Alternative: Booker by Mindbody

Booker offers appointment scheduling with basic upselling capabilities through service bundles and packages.

While it includes marketplace integration for new client acquisition, the upselling features aren’t as sophisticated as Meevo’s automated add-on prompts.

The system works better for established salons that rely on the Mindbody marketplace for client discovery.

Fresha

Best for salons wanting powerful upselling without monthly software costs

Pricing: Free for solo practitioners; Team plans start at $25 per month per bookable team member

Fresha proves that effective upselling doesn’t require expensive software subscriptions.

Their service upselling feature offers clients additional services during online booking, with up to five discounted add-ons per primary service.

The system automatically suggests relevant upgrades and applies customizable discounts to encourage bookings.

Service Upselling That Actually Converts

When clients book a primary service, Fresha displays up to five additional services they can add to their appointment at discounted rates.

You control which services appear as upsells for each primary booking and set the discount percentage that makes the add-ons irresistible.

For example, when someone books a basic facial, you might offer:

• Microdermabrasion upgrade (15% off)
• Eye treatment add-on (20% off)
• Décolletage extension (10% off)
• LED light therapy boost (25% off)
• Take-home skincare kit (30% off)

The discounts encourage clients to try new services while increasing your revenue per appointment.

Membership Upselling Integration

Fresha’s membership upselling feature automatically suggests the most suitable membership when clients book online.

You can configure the system to promote either:

• The cheapest membership option to maximize conversions
• Premium memberships for higher lifetime value
• Specific memberships that align with booked services

This automation turns one-time appointments into recurring revenue streams without requiring staff intervention.

Seamless Booking Flow Design

The upselling prompts integrate naturally into Fresha’s booking process without disrupting the client experience.

Clients see suggested add-ons as helpful options rather than aggressive sales pitches, leading to higher acceptance rates.

The system presents upgrades with clear pricing and descriptions, allowing clients to make informed decisions about enhancing their appointment.

Pros & Cons

Fresha Alternative: Setmore

Setmore offers basic online booking with the ability to suggest add-ons during the booking process, starting at $9 per month.

While it includes essential upselling capabilities, the features aren’t as sophisticated as Fresha’s automated service and membership recommendations.

The platform works well for smaller salons that need simple upselling without the complexity of advanced automation.

GlossGenius

Best for creating high-value booking experiences with strategic service presentation

Pricing: Starting at $24 per month; 14-day free trial available

GlossGenius approaches upselling differently than traditional add-on prompts, focusing on creating booking experiences that naturally drive higher-value appointments.

The platform excels at presenting services in ways that encourage clients to choose premium options and book multiple treatments in a single visit.

Strategic Service Presentation

GlossGenius allows you to organize your service menu to naturally guide clients toward higher-value options.

You can position premium services next to popular basic ones, making upgrades feel logical rather than pushy:

• Place “Deluxe Cut and Style” right after “Basic Haircut”
• Position “Signature Facial with Microdermabrasion” next to “Classic Facial”
• Feature “Complete Manicure and Pedicure Package” alongside individual nail services

The visual presentation and service descriptions work together to educate clients about the benefits of upgraded experiences.

Advanced Pricing Displays

The platform supports sophisticated pricing structures that encourage upsells through value perception.

You can show “starting from” pricing that draws clients in, then present premium options during the booking process.

Service categories help clients understand the full range of what you offer, naturally leading them to consider comprehensive treatments rather than basic services.

High-Value Booking Optimization

GlossGenius includes features specifically designed to drive higher-value bookings:

• Buy Now, Pay Later options that make premium services more accessible
• Deposit requirements that secure higher-value appointments
• Service bundling that presents multiple treatments as packages
• Automated waitlists that fill premium appointment slots quickly

The platform’s analytics show you which services and combinations drive the highest revenue, helping you optimize your upselling strategy over time.

Client Experience Design

What sets GlossGenius apart is the focus on creating booking experiences that feel premium from the start.

The modern, sophisticated interface positions your salon as high-end, making clients more comfortable with premium pricing.

No app downloads or account creation requirements mean clients can book impulse appointments and upgrades without friction.

Pros & Cons

GlossGenius Alternative: Square Appointments

Square Appointments allows you to suggest add-ons and upgrades during the booking process, with the added benefit of seamless Square POS integration.

While the upselling features are more basic than GlossGenius’s strategic presentation tools, the platform excels at transaction processing and inventory integration.

Square works particularly well if you already use Square for payment processing and want unified booking and sales data.

Other Tools That Support Our Upselling Strategy

Maximizing revenue through online booking often requires additional tools beyond your main booking platform.

At successful salons, owners typically use these supporting platforms:

• Canva for creating compelling service images that showcase upgrade options
• Google Analytics to track which booking pages and service presentations convert best
• Mailchimp for follow-up marketing that promotes services clients haven’t tried yet
• Social media scheduling tools to highlight premium services and seasonal upgrades

Wrapping up

Most salon owners are still leaving money on the table with basic booking that only captures the minimum service clients think they want.

But the salons winning in today’s market are using intelligent booking software that automatically suggests upgrades and add-ons when clients are ready to purchase.

Start with the platform that matches your salon’s approach to upselling. Whether you want automatic prompts, strategic presentation, or membership integration, the right software will increase your revenue without adding sales pressure.

Then, as you see results, you can refine your upselling strategy with A/B testing, seasonal promotions, and data-driven service positioning.

Managing tips is a nightmare. Cash tips get lost in the shuffle. Credit card tips pile up in spreadsheets. And trying to split everything fairly between your team? That’s where most nail salon owners lose their minds.

But here’s what top-performing nail salons know:

If you have the right POS system with automated tip distribution tracking, you can eliminate the guesswork, reduce payroll stress, and keep your team happy.

Not by doing complex math every week, but by letting technology handle the calculations while you focus on growing your business.

The best nail salon POS systems with tip tracking help you do exactly that:

• Track every tip automatically, whether cash or credit
• Split tips fairly based on hours worked or custom rules
• Generate payroll reports with zero manual calculations
• Keep detailed records for tax compliance and staff transparency

These are the systems savvy nail salon owners use to run smooth operations where everyone gets paid correctly, on time, every time.

(And the staff retention that comes with it)

The best part?

These platforms work whether you’re a solo tech or managing a full team across multiple locations.

My Top Nail Salon POS Systems with Tip Distribution Tracking for 2025

1. Square: Free to start with automated tip pooling and seamless payroll integration
2. Mangomint: Premium solution with sophisticated tip tracking and beautiful client experience
3. Zenoti: Enterprise-level platform with AI-powered tip management across multiple locations

Square

Best for nail salons wanting powerful tip tracking without the upfront costs

Pricing: Free to start; Square Payroll at $39 per month plus $6 per employee

Square has become the go-to choice for nail salons because of one simple truth: you can start using it today without spending a dime on software.

But don’t mistake “free” for “basic.”

Square’s tip tracking capabilities rival systems that cost hundreds per month. Here’s where Square really excels:

Automate Tip Pooling and Distribution

Square Team Management is designed to simplify tip pooling by making it automatic. With Team Plus, you’re able to choose your pooling method: Split tips across all team members clocked in at the time of the transaction or across employees based on hours worked.

This is huge for nail salons where multiple techs might work on the same client, or where you want to share tips between front desk staff and technicians.

For example:

Say your salon brings in $500 in tips during a shift. You have three techs who worked different hours. Square automatically calculates that Tech A worked 10 hours and gets $200, Tech B worked 7 hours and gets $140, and Tech C worked 8 hours and gets $160.

No spreadsheets. No arguments. No math errors.

Handle Both Cash and Credit Card Tips

Credit card tips are more straightforward because they enter your POS right away, but tracking your employees’ cash tips can be a little harder to wrangle. To make this easier, Square Payroll allows you to input cash tips manually. The system will calculate employee taxes for the appropriate tip amounts and withhold them from the employee’s paycheck.

This means you can track every tip, regardless of how clients choose to pay. The system handles all the tax calculations automatically.

Track Commission and Tips Together

With the commission tracking feature through Square Payroll, you can set commission rates (flat or tiered) for your employees, and the system will automatically calculate their earnings based on those rates.

If your nail techs earn both commission and tips, Square handles the complex math of combining both into accurate paychecks.

Pros & Cons

Square Alternative: Clover

Clover software is loaded with features that are particularly helpful for salon owners, including capabilities to manage employee shifts, measure employee performance through sales reports and offer customers tip options upon checkout.

However, Square typically offers better tip pooling automation and more transparent pricing. Clover can be more expensive once you factor in required hardware and monthly fees.

Mangomint

Best for growing nail salons that want premium tip tracking with beautiful design

Pricing: Starting around $79 per month; Payroll at $40 per month plus $6 per employee

Mangomint has earned its reputation as the “premium” choice in salon software. And when it comes to tip distribution tracking, they’ve built something really sophisticated.

But Mangomint isn’t trying to be the cheapest option.

They’re focused on being the best option for salons that want everything to work seamlessly. Here’s where Mangomint stands out:

Streamlined Tip Assignment and Splitting

Adding and Splitting Tips in Mangomint is designed to handle complex scenarios that nail salons face every day.

Maybe one tech does the manicure while another does the nail art. Or your front desk helps with retail sales that deserve a tip split. Mangomint lets you assign and split tips however makes sense for your business.

The system tracks which staff member performed which service, making tip allocation automatic and accurate.

Integrated Payroll Processing

Pay your employees and contractors on time — every time. No extra systems needed. We support multiple compensation types (hourly, salary, commission, tips) and unlimited payroll runs.

Mangomint’s payroll reports include revenue by staff member, total hours worked, commission amounts, product sales totals, tip totals, and all the information you need to run payroll.

This means your tip tracking feeds directly into payroll without any manual data entry. Everything happens in one place.

Beautiful Client-Facing Checkout

Our Front Desk Display and bluetooth card reader setup turns an iPad into a beautiful client facing screen where clients can pay, view their total, select a tip, add a signature, and choose how to get their receipt.

When clients see a professional, beautiful checkout experience, they’re more likely to tip generously. And those tips get tracked automatically.

Pros & Cons

Mangomint Alternative: Boulevard

Boulevard offers similar premium features with their own payment processing and tip management. However, Mangomint typically provides better customer support and easier setup for nail salon-specific needs.

Zenoti

Best for nail salon chains and large operations needing enterprise-level tip management

Pricing: Custom pricing starting around $300-600 per month (requires annual contract)

Zenoti is the heavy-hitter of nail salon software. If you’re running multiple locations or have complex tip distribution needs, this is where you’ll find the most sophisticated tools.

But Zenoti isn’t for everyone.

It’s built for nail salons that have outgrown simpler systems and need enterprise-grade capabilities. Here’s where Zenoti excels:

Advanced Multi-Location Tip Management

As a business tool, nail salon management software provides nail salon operators and managers with an interface to do things like confirm appointments, track inventory, arrange tip payouts, and run marketing campaigns.

If you have nail techs working across multiple locations, Zenoti tracks their tips and performance everywhere. The system maintains unified records so you can run payroll across your entire operation from one dashboard.

AI-Powered Analytics for Tip Optimization

Zenoti provides detailed analytics on tip patterns, helping you understand which services generate the highest tips and which staff members perform best.

This data helps you make smarter scheduling decisions and identify training opportunities to boost overall tip performance.

Complex Commission and Tip Structures

arrange tip payouts with unlimited customization options. Whether you have different tip-sharing rules for different services, or complex commission structures that change based on performance, Zenoti can handle it.

The system automatically applies the right rules to each transaction, ensuring accurate payouts every time.

Pros & Cons

Zenoti Alternative: Mindbody

Mindbody offers similar enterprise features for multi-location businesses. However, Zenoti typically provides better nail salon-specific features and more sophisticated tip distribution options.

Other Tools in Our Nail Salon Tech Stack

Managing tips effectively requires more than just POS software.

At our salon, we also use these tools to keep payroll running smoothly:

• QuickBooks Online for accounting integration and tax preparation
• 7shifts for advanced tip pooling when using Square POS
• TipHaus for complex tip distribution scenarios across multiple locations
• ADP for comprehensive payroll processing when integrated with POS systems

Wrapping up

The truth is, most nail salons are still using outdated methods for tip tracking. Spreadsheets. Manual calculations. Arguments about who earned what.

But the salons that are thriving in 2025? They’ve automated this process completely.

A good tip distribution system doesn’t just save you time. It builds trust with your team, ensures fair compensation, and creates the kind of workplace culture where talented techs want to stay.

Start with the platform that matches your current needs and budget. But choose one that can grow with you.

No-shows are crushing your schedule. Clients book appointments and then simply disappear. Your chairs sit empty while you scramble to fill last-minute cancellations. And the phone calls to confirm appointments? They eat up hours you could spend actually doing hair.

But here’s what successful salon owners know:

The right CRM software with automated text messaging can completely transform your booking process.

Not by adding more work to your plate, but by automating the follow-ups, confirmations, and promotional messages that keep clients engaged and your chairs filled.

The best salon CRM software with SMS capabilities helps you do exactly that:

• Send automatic appointment reminders that actually get read
• Follow up with clients who haven’t booked in months
• Promote last-minute openings when cancellations happen
• Turn one-time visitors into loyal, returning clients

These are the tools salon owners across the country use to reduce no-shows by up to 71% and increase rebookings month after month.

The best part?

These systems work automatically in the background while you focus on what you do best – making clients look and feel amazing.

My Top 3 Salon CRM Software with SMS Follow-Ups

1. Phorest: Complete salon management with advanced SMS marketing campaigns
2. Boulevard: Premium software with automated messaging and client engagement tools
3. Fresha: Free booking platform with built-in text reminders and notifications

Phorest

Best for salons that want to master SMS marketing and client retention

Pricing: Starting at $99 per month; custom demo available

Phorest isn’t just salon software – it’s a complete business growth platform that happens to include some of the most sophisticated SMS marketing tools in the industry.

I’ve watched salon owners increase their revenue by 22 times their SMS marketing investment using Phorest’s automated campaigns.

But what makes Phorest special isn’t just the messaging. It’s how the SMS features integrate with everything else.

Automate Your Entire Client Journey

Phorest’s SMS automation goes way beyond basic appointment reminders.

The software can predict when clients are ready to rebook based on their service history and automatically send them a text at exactly the right moment.

For example, if Sarah usually gets her color touched up every 6 weeks, Phorest will automatically text her around week 5 with a gentle rebooking prompt.

This isn’t guesswork. The system uses machine learning to analyze your client patterns and optimize the timing.

Send Targeted Campaigns That Actually Convert

The SMS marketing capabilities in Phorest are where things get really powerful.

You can segment your client list in dozens of ways and send targeted messages that feel personal:

• Clients who haven’t visited in 3 months get a “we miss you” campaign
• Birthday month clients receive special discount offers
• High-spending VIP clients get early access to new services
• Clients who bought specific products receive follow-up care tips

One salon owner told me they generated $300,000 in revenue directly from SMS campaigns last year using these targeted approaches.

Turn Staff Into Revenue Generators

My favorite Phorest feature is “Expert Recommendations” – staff can send personalized product suggestions via SMS that link directly to your online store.

Instead of pressuring clients at checkout, stylists can text thoughtful product recommendations after the appointment. The SMS includes a custom link that adds the recommended items to their cart.

This approach feels helpful rather than pushy, and the tracking shows you exactly which staff member sent what recommendation and whether it converted to a sale.

Pros & Cons

Phorest Alternative: Vagaro

Vagaro offers salon management with SMS reminders and marketing campaigns at a lower price point starting around $25 per month.

While it includes text messaging capabilities, the automation and personalization features aren’t as advanced as Phorest’s machine learning approach.

Vagaro works well for smaller salons that need basic SMS functionality without the comprehensive marketing suite.

Boulevard

Best for high-end salons focused on premium client experiences

Pricing: Starting at $245 per month; Contact Center SMS add-on from $25 per month

Boulevard is built for salons that want to deliver luxury experiences at every touchpoint, including their text messaging.

The SMS features feel more sophisticated than typical salon software. Everything is designed to make your business appear polished and professional.

Reduce No-Shows by 71%

Boulevard’s automated appointment confirmations and reminders can decrease no-shows and late cancellations by 71%.

The system sends perfectly timed confirmations when clients book, followed by customizable reminders before their appointment.

But here’s what sets Boulevard apart: each location gets its own dedicated phone number for all text communications.

This means your SMS messages always come from the same recognizable number, building trust and improving response rates.

Manage All Client Communication in One Place

Boulevard’s Contact Center gives you a centralized inbox for all client text conversations.

You can see the complete SMS history with each client alongside their profile, appointment history, and previous notes.

Your entire team can access these conversations, so anyone can jump in and help without losing context.

Smart Text Marketing Campaigns

Boulevard’s text marketing goes beyond basic promotions.

You can create sophisticated campaigns based on client tags, appointment dates, service history, and referral sources:

• Send birthday offers automatically
• Text clients when you have last-minute openings
• Follow up with clients who haven’t booked recently
• Target specific services to clients who would benefit most

The system tracks open rates, click-through rates, and conversions so you know exactly which campaigns are driving revenue.

Pros & Cons

Boulevard Alternative: Square Appointments

Square Appointments includes basic SMS reminders and marketing for $10 per month as an add-on to their free booking system.

While it doesn’t have Boulevard’s advanced targeting or dedicated phone numbers, it covers the essentials for smaller salons.

The integration with Square’s payment processing makes it seamless for businesses already using Square.

Fresha

Best for salons wanting SMS features without the monthly software costs

Pricing: Free with SMS allowance included; additional texts charged per message

Fresha proves that you don’t need to pay hundreds of dollars monthly to get solid SMS capabilities.

Their free platform includes appointment reminders, confirmations, and basic marketing features that work surprisingly well.

For new salon owners or those testing out SMS marketing for the first time, Fresha removes all financial barriers.

Essential SMS Notifications That Just Work

Fresha automatically handles six key types of text messages:

• Appointment confirmations when clients book online or in-store
• Automated reminders sent at your chosen timeframe before appointments
• Reschedule confirmations when appointment times change
• Cancellation notifications with any applicable fees
• No-show alerts that inform clients about missed appointments
• Thank you messages after completed services with review requests

The system tries WhatsApp first, then falls back to SMS if WhatsApp isn’t available. You only pay for whichever message successfully delivers.

Reduce No-Shows Without Breaking the Bank

The automated reminders significantly reduce no-shows by keeping appointments top of mind for clients.

You can set up to three reminders per appointment at different timeframes, and the timing is completely customizable.

What I appreciate about Fresha is how they’ve simplified the process. You’re not overwhelmed with complex segmentation options or advanced features you might not need.

Built-In Marketing Tools

While not as sophisticated as Phorest or Boulevard, Fresha includes basic marketing capabilities:

• Send promotional messages to your client list
• Create targeted campaigns based on booking history
• Set up automated thank you texts that request reviews

The marketing features are straightforward but effective for building client relationships.

Pros & Cons

Fresha Alternative: Acuity Scheduling

Acuity Scheduling offers SMS reminders as an add-on to their booking platform, starting at $14 per month.

The text messaging is more basic than Fresha’s six notification types, focusing primarily on appointment reminders.

However, Acuity integrates well with other business tools if you’re already using platforms they connect with.

Other Tools That Support Our SMS Workflow

Running effective text message campaigns requires more than just CRM software.

At our salon, we use additional tools to maximize our SMS marketing results:

• Canva for creating eye-catching images to include in MMS promotional texts
• Google Analytics to track which SMS campaigns drive the most website traffic and bookings
• Zapier to connect our CRM with other marketing tools for automated workflows
• Calendly as a backup booking option that clients can access through SMS links

Wrapping up

Most salon owners are still relying on phone calls and hoping clients show up.

But the salons winning in today’s market are the ones using automated SMS to stay connected with their clients.

Start with the platform that fits your budget and needs. Even basic SMS reminders will dramatically improve your no-show rates.

Then, as your business grows, you can add more sophisticated features for client segmentation, advanced automation, and detailed campaign analytics.

The salon industry is brutal. Clients are always hunting for deals. New salons open every month. And keeping customers coming back? It’s harder than ever.

But here’s what successful salon owners know:

If you have the right loyalty program, you can turn one-time visitors into devoted clients who book regularly, spend more per visit, and refer their friends.

Not by slashing prices, but by making every client feel valued, rewarded, and excited to return.

The best salon marketing software with loyalty features helps you do exactly that:

• Turn casual clients into repeat customers
• Increase average ticket size through reward incentives
• Build a community of brand advocates who spread the word
• Automate retention so you can focus on what you do best

These are the tools savvy salon owners use to build client bases that keep growing, month after month.

(And the loyalty programs that actually drive results)

The best part?

These platforms work for salons of any size. Whether you’re a solo stylist or running multiple locations.

My Top Salon Loyalty Software for 2025

1. Zenoti: Enterprise-grade platform with AI-powered loyalty and membership programs
2. Vagaro: Affordable all-in-one solution with marketplace exposure and built-in loyalty tools
3. GlossGenius: Beautifully designed platform perfect for independent professionals and small teams

Zenoti

Best for multi-location salons and large operations that need enterprise-level loyalty management

Pricing: Custom pricing starting around $300-600 per month (requires annual contract)

Zenoti gets mentioned on every “best salon software” list for good reason. It’s incredibly comprehensive. And when it comes to loyalty programs, they’ve built something seriously powerful.

But I don’t recommend Zenoti for everyone.

I recommend it specifically for salon owners who need enterprise-level features and have the budget to match. Here’s where Zenoti really shines:

Build Sophisticated Loyalty Programs

Zenoti provides foundational Regular Loyalty Programs and advanced Tiered Loyalty Programs, allowing customized point accrual (pre- or post-tax) and easy redemption.

You can create multiple loyalty tiers that make your best clients feel truly special. Think Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels where spending more unlocks better perks.

For example:

Bronze members might earn 1 point per dollar spent. Silver members could earn 1.5 points per dollar after spending $500. And Gold members get 2 points per dollar once they hit $1,000 in annual spending.

Zenoti provides detailed Loyalty Program Performance Reports, Guest Retention and Feedback Summaries, Referral Effectiveness Tracking, and a Loyalty Points Liability Data Model for advanced analytics.

This means you can see exactly which loyalty strategies drive the most revenue and adjust accordingly.

Automate Referral Rewards

Configure attractive rewards for referrals, integrating effortlessly into marketing campaigns. Boost organic growth through effective word-of-mouth strategies.

Zenoti makes it easy to track when existing clients bring in new customers. You can automatically reward both the referrer and the new client.

This creates a powerful growth loop where happy clients become your best marketing channel.

Manage Loyalty Across Multiple Locations

If you run multiple salon locations, Zenoti handles this seamlessly. Zenoti packages are easily accessible across all your brand’s locations. The Zenoti salon and spa management system tracks purchased packages by guest ID to ensure that guests can redeem their packages irrespective of their location.

Your clients can earn points at one location and redeem them at another. The system keeps everything synchronized automatically.

Pros & Cons

Zenoti Alternative: Mindbody

Mindbody offers similar enterprise-level features for multi-location salon chains. It includes loyalty programs, membership management, and marketing automation.

However, Zenoti typically offers better customization options for loyalty programs and stronger analytics capabilities. Mindbody tends to be more fitness-focused in its feature development.

Vagaro

Best for small to medium salons wanting affordable loyalty features with marketplace exposure

Pricing: $30 per month for one location; additional team members at $10 each

Vagaro takes a different approach to salon software. Instead of trying to be the most feature-rich platform, they focus on being the most accessible and affordable.

And their loyalty program features punch well above their price point.

Create Custom Loyalty Programs

Create & manage customer loyalty programs is included in every Vagaro plan, even at the $30 entry level.

Customize price, duration & points for each service and employees who offer them.

You can set up point-based systems where clients earn rewards for every dollar spent. Or create service-specific rewards where a facial earns different points than a haircut.

The flexibility here is impressive for such an affordable platform.

Get Discovered Through the Vagaro Marketplace

Here’s what sets Vagaro apart: Free listing with unlimited daily deals and bookings on the Vagaro Marketplace.

This marketplace connects potential clients with your salon. And unlike most discovery platforms, Vagaro doesn’t charge you extra when clients book through it.

You can promote special offers and loyalty program sign-ups directly through the marketplace. This gives you a built-in way to attract new clients who might become loyalty program members.

Automate Client Engagement

1,000 free email marketing messages to send each month helps you stay connected with loyalty program members.

You can send automated birthday discounts, point balance updates, and special member-only promotions. All without paying extra for email marketing tools.

The system also handles appointment reminders automatically, which helps reduce no-shows and keeps your loyal clients engaged.

Pros & Cons

Vagaro Alternative: Phorest

Phorest focuses specifically on salon and spa businesses with updated Digital Loyalty and new Referrals features. Their Digital Loyalty program has evolved from the traditional Treatcard system to a fully digital experience where clients can track their rewards through online booking.

However, Phorest doesn’t run a salon marketplace or directory, so you miss out on the built-in client discovery that Vagaro provides.

GlossGenius

Best for independent professionals and small salons that want beautiful design with solid loyalty features

Pricing: $24 per month for Standard Plan, $48 per month for Gold Plan, $148 per month for Platinum Plan

GlossGenius has earned a reputation for being the most beautifully designed salon software on the market. But it’s not just about looks.

Their loyalty program features are thoughtfully designed and easy to implement.

Build Client Relationships That Last

While GlossGenius doesn’t have the most complex loyalty program features, what they do offer works incredibly well for smaller operations.

GlossGenius offers powerful salon marketing tools to help you attract new clients and retain existing ones. With features like customizable email and SMS campaigns, social media integrations, and rebooking reminders, GlossGenius makes it easier than ever to engage with potential clients and encourage repeat visits.

The focus here is on relationship building rather than complex point systems. You can send personalized messages, track client preferences, and create experiences that make people want to return.

Seamless Client Experience

The platform now includes a fully integrated payment system with a competitive 2.6% flat processing rate and versatile payment options including tap, insert, and swipe payments through their stylish card readers.

When clients feel good about every interaction with your business, they naturally become more loyal. GlossGenius excels at making every touchpoint feel premium and professional.

Your booking site, payment process, and client communications all maintain the same beautiful, consistent brand experience.

Perfect for Growing Businesses

The Standard Plan provides all the essentials needed for running your business as a solo professional, but you can scale up as you grow.

The Gold Plan, which costs $48 per month, offers additional features for busy salons with fewer than ten employees.

This makes it easy to start simple and add more sophisticated loyalty features as your client base grows.

Pros & Cons

GlossGenius Alternative: Mangomint

Mangomint offers more robust team features and advanced loyalty program options. It’s designed specifically for growing salons that need more sophisticated client retention tools.

However, GlossGenius wins on ease of use and design. If you value simplicity and want your software to look as good as your salon, GlossGenius is the better choice.

Other Tools in Our Salon Marketing Stack

Running a successful loyalty program requires more than just the right software platform.

At our salon, we also use these tools to maximize client retention:

• Canva for creating beautiful loyalty program graphics and social media posts
• Google Analytics to track which loyalty incentives drive the most bookings
• Mailchimp for advanced email sequences that nurture loyalty program members
• Instagram Business to showcase loyal clients and create FOMO around exclusive perks

Wrapping up

Look, there are dozens of salon software options out there. But these three consistently deliver results when it comes to building loyal client relationships.

An affordable platform with solid loyalty features beats an expensive one that sits unused.

But beyond the software, focus on making every client interaction remarkable. Technology amplifies great service, but it can’t replace it.

Payroll day is giving you nightmares. Commission calculations that take hours to figure out. Tip tracking across multiple payment methods. Tax filing deadlines that sneak up on you. And spreadsheets full of numbers that never seem to add up right.

Meanwhile, your stylists are asking when they’ll get paid, and you’re spending your weekend trying to make sense of timesheets instead of relaxing.

But here’s what the most successful salon owners have figured out:

The right management software with integrated payroll doesn’t just handle payments. It eliminates the entire administrative headache.

Not by adding complexity, but by automating calculations, integrating with your existing POS system, and ensuring compliance without the constant worry.

The best salon management software with payroll integration helps you do exactly that:

• Calculate commissions automatically based on actual services performed
• Track tips from multiple sources and distribute them accurately
• File taxes and handle compliance without missing deadlines
• Pay your team faster while reducing errors and disputes

These are the platforms salon owners use to cut payroll processing time by 80% and eliminate those late-night number-crunching sessions.

The best part?

Your stylists get paid accurately and on time, every time. No more explaining why their check is different than expected.

My Top 3 Hair Salon Management Software with Payroll Integration

1. Zenoti: Enterprise-level platform with automated payroll calculations and commission tracking
2. Square Appointments: Affordable solution with seamless Square Payroll integration
3. Homebase: All-in-one small business platform built specifically for hourly teams

Zenoti

Best for growing salons that want enterprise-level payroll automation

Pricing: Custom pricing based on business size; demo available

Zenoti isn’t just salon software with payroll bolted on. It’s an enterprise platform where payroll automation is built into every aspect of your business operations.

The system automates complex earnings calculations, handles tips and commissions automatically, and provides next-day direct deposits while managing everything from appointment booking to inventory tracking.

Automate Complex Commission Structures

Zenoti excels at handling the intricate payment structures that make salon payroll so complicated.

The system automatically calculates commissions based on services performed, tracks bonuses tied to sales targets, and manages different pay rates for different services.

For example, if Jessica earns 40% commission on cuts, 35% on color, and gets a $50 bonus for every new client she brings in, Zenoti handles all those calculations in real time.

The platform automatically calculates both commissions and bonuses based on services rendered, sales targets met, or specific employee performance metrics, eliminating the manual math that leads to errors and disputes.

Track Everything Automatically

What sets Zenoti apart is how it captures payroll data from your actual business operations:

• Service sales automatically calculate stylist commissions
• Tip amounts from credit card transactions sync directly to timesheets
• Retail sales trigger product commission calculations
• Time tracking integrates with appointment scheduling

This means your payroll data is always accurate because it’s pulled directly from what actually happened in your salon, not from manual entry.

Enterprise-Level Reporting and Compliance

Zenoti Payroll offers various reports, including payroll summaries, base pay, commissions, bonuses, tips, and historical payroll data that give you complete visibility into your labor costs.

The compliance features handle tax filing, labor law requirements, and audit trails automatically. You get alerts when regulations change, and the system adapts to keep you compliant.

For multi-location salons, Zenoti provides centralized payroll management across all sites while maintaining location-specific reporting.

Pros & Cons

Zenoti Alternative: Vagaro

Vagaro is great for commission-based salons that want built-in booking and basic payroll features in one platform, starting around $30 per month.

While it handles commission calculations and basic payroll functions, it doesn’t offer the same level of automation or enterprise reporting as Zenoti.

Vagaro works well for smaller salons that need solid payroll integration without the full enterprise feature set.

Square Appointments

Best for salons already using Square POS that want seamless payroll integration

Pricing: Free for solo providers; Plus at $39/month, Premium at $69/month; Square Payroll add-on starts at $35/month + $6 per employee

Square Appointments becomes incredibly powerful when you add Square Payroll to your existing setup.

With a Square Staff and Payroll bundle, you can track your employee’s commissions and automatically import those sales to Square Payroll, eliminating the double data entry that causes so many payroll headaches.

Seamless Integration Across All Square Products

The magic happens when your POS, scheduling, and payroll all speak the same language.

When a stylist completes a $150 color service with a $30 tip, that information flows automatically:

• The service revenue hits your Square POS
• Commission calculations happen instantly based on your preset rates
• Tip amounts get added to the stylist’s timesheet
• All data syncs to Square Payroll for processing

This integration means your payroll is always based on actual transaction data, not manual estimates.

Mobile Payroll Management

See real-time performance metrics for client retention, prebooking, and scheduling utilization for team member(s) or yourself. Get an idea of how much you’ll earn within the next week or month based on upcoming appointments clients have already booked.

You can approve payroll, review timesheets, and handle corrections right from your phone between appointments.

The mobile access is particularly valuable for salon owners who are always moving between stations and rarely sit at a desk.

Transparent Processing and Costs

Square’s pricing is straightforward: Run full-service payroll starting at $35 per month + $6 per person paid.

Unlike some competitors with hidden fees, Square shows you exactly what payroll will cost based on your team size.

The processing fees for credit card transactions are also clearly stated, so you can budget accurately for both payment processing and payroll costs.

Pros & Cons

Square Alternative: GlossGenius

GlossGenius offers payroll management with separate bank accounts for booth renters and integrated team scheduling.

The platform provides more styling customization than Square and includes features specifically designed for beauty professionals.

However, the payment processing integration isn’t as seamless as Square’s unified ecosystem.

Homebase

Best all-in-one solution for small salons with hourly and commissioned staff

Pricing: Free for up to 20 employees at one location; paid plans from $24.95/month; Payroll add-on $39/month + $6 per employee

Homebase is built for small businesses and bundles scheduling, payroll, hiring, compliance, and team messaging into one easy platform.

If you’re running a smaller salon and want everything in one place without enterprise complexity, Homebase delivers exactly what you need.

Built for Small Business Payroll Challenges

What makes Homebase special is how they designed their payroll specifically for small businesses dealing with hourly workers and tips.

Homebase automatically pulls tips from your POS, calculates the tip pool, and adds it to timesheets, handling one of the biggest headaches in salon payroll.

The system manages:

• Hourly wages with overtime calculations
• Commission payments based on service revenue
• Tip distribution from credit card transactions
• Contractor payments with automatic 1099 filing
• Paid time off tracking and accrual

Scheduling That Connects to Payroll

The scheduling features work hand-in-hand with payroll processing.

When you build your weekly schedule, Homebase automatically tracks which stylists are working which hours. Clock-in and clock-out times sync directly to timesheets.

If someone picks up an extra shift or stays late, those hours automatically appear in their timesheet for payroll processing.

This connection between scheduling and payroll eliminates the manual reconciliation that leads to payment errors.

Compliance and Tax Handling

Homebase sends direct deposits to employees and files your payroll taxes for you, taking care of the compliance requirements that keep salon owners up at night.

The system includes:

• Automatic tax calculations and filing
• Labor law compliance tracking
• Break and overtime requirement monitoring
• Audit-ready payroll records
• State-specific regulation updates

For small salon owners who can’t afford to hire a payroll specialist, this compliance automation is invaluable.

Pros & Cons

Homebase Alternative: Gusto

Gusto offers comprehensive payroll with built-in HR features starting at $39/month plus $6 per employee.

While Gusto has strong payroll capabilities, it doesn’t include the salon-specific scheduling features that make Homebase particularly valuable for beauty businesses.

The integration between scheduling and payroll isn’t as seamless as Homebase’s purpose-built connection.

Other Tools That Support Our Payroll Workflow

Managing salon payroll effectively often requires additional tools beyond your main management software.

At successful salons, owners typically use these supporting platforms:

• QuickBooks for accounting integration and financial reporting that connects to payroll data
• TaxSlayer Pro for handling quarterly tax filings and year-end reporting
• BambooHR for employee onboarding and document management
• Deputy as an alternative scheduling tool that integrates with multiple payroll providers

Wrapping up

Most salon owners are still calculating commissions by hand and praying they get the tax filing deadlines right.

But the salons thriving in today’s competitive market are using integrated software that handles payroll automatically while they focus on clients.

Start with the platform that matches your salon’s size and complexity. Even basic payroll automation will save you hours each week and eliminate the stress of payment errors.

Then, as your team grows, you can add more sophisticated features for advanced reporting, multi-location management, and enterprise-level compliance.