Before you switch
- Pick your new platform and test it fully — set it up, make a test booking, confirm the client experience, test reminders
- Note all existing future bookings on the old platform — you'll need to handle these manually
- Check any subscription end dates on your current platform
- Export your client list (CSV) from the current platform before you start the transition
- Choose a target switch date — ideally after a quiet period with few existing future bookings
Migrating client data
Most booking platforms allow CSV client data export. Before leaving your current platform:
- Export client name, phone, email, and any notes
- Check whether your new platform accepts CSV import — most do
- Import the client list to the new platform so returning clients don't need to re-enter all their information
- Note any VIP client notes or special requirements that won't transfer automatically
Setting up the new platform
Complete full setup before announcing the switch:
- Services, prices, and durations
- Working hours and blocked-out dates
- Deposit settings and cancellation policy
- Reminder settings
- Profile photo and description
- Payment setup tested and working
Guide to setup: how to set up online booking for your nail business.
Communicating the change to clients
Tell clients before you switch — don't just change the link and let them figure it out:
| Channel | Message to send |
|---|---|
| Instagram post or Story | "I've moved my bookings to [new platform] — same services, easier booking. New link is in my bio." |
| Email or message to client list | "Hi [name], I've switched to a new booking system. You can now book at [new link]." |
| Instagram bio update | Update your link in bio on the same day you announce the switch |
| Website booking link | Update any embedded booking link or booking page URL on your website |
The cutover process
- Stop accepting new bookings on the old platform (close availability or pause it)
- Open availability on the new platform
- Update all your links (Instagram bio, link in bio page, website)
- Post the announcement
- Monitor for any confusion — some clients will try to book via the old platform; redirect them
After switching
- Check that reminders are working on the new platform (book a test appointment)
- Confirm deposits are processing correctly
- Keep the old platform account open for a month before closing
- Review after 30 days: is the new platform working as expected? Any client friction?
Ready to run your nail business more professionally?
Manage bookings, deposits and payments from one customisable Nelsy booking page.
Start free →Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to switch booking software?
The least disruptive time is during a relatively quiet period — a gap between busy seasons (e.g. January after the Christmas rush, or late summer before autumn). Avoid switching during your busiest periods, the two weeks before Christmas, or if you have a large volume of future bookings that need to be migrated manually. Give yourself at least 2 weeks of overlap between platforms.
What happens to bookings already on my old platform?
Existing bookings on your old platform don't automatically transfer to the new one. You have two options: manually re-enter future bookings on the new platform, or continue using the old platform until those existing appointments pass and only use the new one for new bookings going forward. The latter is usually simpler.
Do I need to export my client list?
Yes — export your client list (name, contact details) from your current platform before your account closes. Most platforms provide a CSV export. Even if you don't import it immediately to the new platform, having a local backup means you won't lose contact with clients if access to the old system ends.
