Our Blog
Business & Marketing
How Rebooking & Referrals Can Transform Your Business: Real Tips from Sola Pros
Posted on July 22, 2025
Sola Salons
Building a thriving, sustainable business as an independent beauty or wellness pro isn’t just about attracting new clients—it’s about creating long-term relationships. Two of the simplest (yet most powerful) strategies? Rebooking and referrals.
We connected with some of our Faces of Sola Ambassadors to get their real-world advice on how they use rebooking and referrals to grow their businesses, reduce stress, and create the kind of client experience that keeps people coming back—and spreading the good word!
The Power of Rebooking: Consistency = Success
Rebooking isn’t about “selling” more services—it’s about setting your clients (and yourself) up for success. When clients rebook before they leave, you’re helping them stay consistent with their care—and you’re helping yourself create a predictable, stable schedule.
Lauren Middleton, a hairstylist in Charlotte, NC, shares how she weaves rebooking into every appointment:
“Healthy hair is consistent hair, so I make rebooking part of the conversation from the moment they sit in my chair. Before they leave, I say, ‘Let’s go ahead and secure your next appointment so we stay on track.’ Most of the time, they’re grateful for the reminder because life gets busy!”
Stacey Buckner, a Nurse Practitioner in Chattanooga, TN, adds:
“I offer clients a set discount if they rebook before they leave. My clients are super consistent—and everyone loves a discount! Plus, it keeps my schedule full and helps me know where I can fit in new patients.”
And for Cortney Prentice, a hairstylist and bridal specialist in Mississauga, Canada, it’s all about setting expectations:
“I just say, ‘All of my clients prebook because I book up quickly—that way you get the time and day you want.’ When they hear that, they usually book on the spot.”
Benefits of Rebooking:
- Schedule stability (know your weeks ahead of time!)
- Financial peace of mind
- Better client results (hello, loyal clients who see real progress)
- More freedom and less stress (no scrambling to fill gaps)
Referrals: Let Your Clients Do the Talking
Referral programs aren’t just about discounts—they’re about building community. Happy clients naturally tell their friends but giving them a reason to spread the word (and rewarding them when they do) can take your growth to the next level.
Here’s how some of our Sola pros make referrals work:
Cortney’s salon referral system:
- New client = $20 OFF
- Referring client = $20 OFF their next visit
- Bonus: For her bridal business, Cortney sends a Starbucks gift card to the past client as a thank you.
“I mention it at checkout with every new client. It’s simple, but it works.”
Stacey’s approach in her MedSpa:
Stacey is rolling out a referral program that offers discounts after 3-5 referrals. But beyond offers, she focuses on building trust and relationships:
“I’ve had patients refer entire friend groups because they believe in the services. I don’t accept monetary tips—word of mouth is how my practice grows.”
Lauren’s salon strategy:
Lauren started with referral discounts early in her career but now leans into VIP treatment for her regulars:
“I focus on surprising my loyal clients with service upgrades, thoughtful touches, or priority booking. That shift has helped me build a high-quality, consistent clientele who truly value my work.”
How Rebooking + Referrals Work Together
Rebooking fills your calendar with familiar faces you love working with. Referrals bring in new clients who align with your vibe. Together, they create a flow that feels natural—not forced.
Stacey sums it up:
“If you take care of your existing clients, they’ll take care of you. In just two years, I’ve grown to nearly 1,300 patients.”
Lauren agrees:
“When clients rebook, they’re committing to themselves. When they refer, they’re committing to you. It’s a win-win.”
Tips for New Beauty Pros:
If you’re just getting started at Sola, here’s some advice straight from our ambassadors:
- Start before you feel ready. As Cortney says, “Just start! You’ll learn as you go.”
- Get your backend in place. Email follow-ups, referral tracking, knowing your numbers—it all matters.
- Focus on quality over quantity. Take care of the clients you have, and they’ll help you grow.
- Set boundaries and high standards. The right clients will meet you there.
- Be YOU. “When you’re real, people want to come back. That’s how you build trust and loyalty,” says Stacey.
Trust the Process
At Sola, you’re in control of your own success—but you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Start simple. Prioritize relationships. Use rebooking and referrals as tools to build the kind of business that supports your lifestyle, your passion, and your purpose. You’ve got this—and we’re here to cheer you on!
_
Interested in salon suites for rent? Get in touch, we’d love to welcome you to the Sola Family!