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Guide

How to set clear business hours as a solo service pro

How do I set clear business hours for client bookings?

Decide the first appointment start and the last appointment end for each working day, block recurring breaks and days off, add a buffer after services that need cleanup or travel, and pick a minimum notice (for example, no same-day bookings within 2 hours). Then offer times only inside those hours so clients learn your schedule from your replies.

Think in “last appointment ends”, not closing time

If you want to be done by 6, your last 90-minute service starts at 4:30. Setting hours as “last appointment ends at 6” keeps long services from running late.

Buffers are part of the appointment

Cleaners and detailers need travel time; lash and nail techs need setup and sanitizing. Add it as a buffer so it's never offered to the next client.

Evening and weekend schedules are fine

Many independent pros work non-standard hours. What matters is that they're consistent enough that your replies — and any tool you use — offer only times you actually want.

Copy-ready templates

Replace the [brackets] with your own details. Free to use — no sign-up.

Sharing your hours

I take appointments [days], [start]–[end]. What day works best for you?

Outside your hours

I'm not available that late, but I could do [day] at [time]. Would that work?

What BookingSolved does

BookingSolved uses your work hours, per-service durations, and buffers to suggest open times from your Apple Calendar — so every time it offers fits the schedule you set.

The advice above is general guidance for independent service businesses. Policies, prices, and wording are always your call.

Common questions

Should I post my hours publicly?
It helps clients self-select, but keep a little flexibility for regulars. Your replies can always offer exceptions.

Stop typing appointments twice.

Download BookingSolved and turn scheduling messages into Calendar actions with a reply ready to send.

Requires iOS 18 or later · Designed for iPhone and iPad