I feel you on how overwhelming it can be to run a salon these days. You've got appointments to juggle, no-shows to deal with, inventory to keep up with – all while trying to keep up with the latest trends and give your clients fab service. It's a lot!

I'm sure you've heard about tools like DaySmart that promise to make it all easier to manage. But there are a ton of options for salon software out there. So how do ya even decide what'll work best for your business.

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In this article, we’ll go over 10 DaySmart alternatives for 2024 so you can see what might be a good fit. We'll talk about what handy features to look for, like appointment reminders or bangin' customer management tools. And I'll give you the rundown on each one so you can see which could really make your days run smoother!

My goal is to help you find something that ticks all your boxes so you can stop spending so much time on paperwork and focus on clients, styling, and everything else that makes running your salon business actually fun. You shouldn't have to handle it all solo! The right software can totally change the game and help lighten your load so your business stays ahead.

What to Look For in a DaySmart Alternative?

When looking for an alternative to DaySmart, you should look for a platform that is tailored specifically for salons and the beauty industry. Here are a few features to watch for in a salon management software solution:

• Cloud-Based Functionality: Make sure the platform you choose offers cloud-based solutions for accessibility and data security from anywhere you have a wifi connection. Pretty much every alternative on this list has this (so no need to worry too much about this one).
• Comprehensive Appointment Scheduling: Look for flexible appointment scheduling software that includes calendar scheduling and email and SMS notifications to reduce no-shows.
• Effective Point of Sale (POS) System: A reliable POS system is essential for smooth transactions. Find a platform that let’s you bill clients both online and through a physical card reader.
• CRM and Staff Management Features: Effective client relationship management (CRM) and staff management tools are super important for maintaining client records and managing employee schedules. This feature will allow you to know who’s worked with you before, so you can personalize their future experiences with you.
• Mobile App Availability: A mobile app enhances flexibility for both business owners and clients. Some platforms on our list, like GlossGenius, have a mobile app (for both iOS and Android) to help you manage your salon business on the go.
• Invoicing Capabilities: Efficient invoicing and payment features are crucial for streamlining financial management. Look for a platform that manages your finances and expenses, like GlossGenius, so you can be headache free during tax season.
• Notifications and Alerts: Timely notifications and alerts help keep both staff and clients informed on upcoming appointments, promotions, or updates with any changes in your business.
• Employee Management Tools: Tools for managing staff schedules, payrolls, and performance are critical in employee management.

These elements are essential in a booking software, making sure that it meets the diverse needs of both you and your clients. Okay, now let’s go through our list of the best DaySmart alternatives on the market right now.

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Top 10 DaySmart Alternatives in 2024

Here are our top picks for the best DaySmart alternatives:

1. GlossGenius
2. Mangomint
3. Meevo
4. Vagaro
5. Boulevard
6. Acuity Scheduling
7. Phorest
8. Mindbody
9. Booksy
10. Salonist

Let’s take a deeper look at each platform.

1. GlossGenius

Women-founded in 2016, GlossGenius has quickly become the go-to platform for thousands of salon business to manage everything from bookings to staff payments. This all-in-one platform helps you manage appointments like a pro with its sleek interface and intuitive design. Say goodbye to no-shows with automated reminders that'll keep your clients on their toes.

But wait, there's more. With GlossGenius, you also get access to a suite of marketing tools to help you find and retain more clients. It also keeps tabs on inventory so you won’t run out of your best-selling pomade right before prom season hits.

Here are some notable features:

• Easy appointment scheduling
• Appointment reminders to reduce no-shows
• Reporting and analytics
• Staff and finance management
• POS system with a customizable card reader

GlossGenius also comes in at one of the best platforms on this list in terms of price and value. Let’s talk about price.

Pricing

GlossGenius doesn't make you break the bank to look like a million bucks. The pricing model is transparent at just $24 per month for the starter – no hidden fees lurking in the shadows here. The starter plan will give you everything you need to manage your salon successfully.

For larger teams, you can upgrade to the $48 per month plan to get access to extra features. With plans tailored for different business sizes, you have options whether you’re flying solo or running a full-on glam squad.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 5/5 star rating
• App Store reviews: 4.7/5 star rating (+2,000 reviews)

You don’t have to take our word for it. Verified customers on the popular software review platform G2, rate GlossGenius as a platform that is easy to use, has a user-friendly interface, and provides the best value for the price. Stylists love how easy it is to use and clients adore being able to book 24/7 without playing phone tag.

2. Mangomint

Think of Mangomint as the savvy personal assistant you didn't know your salon was missing. With a suite of features that streamline appointment booking and payment processing, it's like having an extra pair of hands without the extra payroll.

Say goodbye to no-shows with automated reminders that nudge clients about their appointments – because sometimes they need a little poke. And let's not forget about inventory management – imagine knowing exactly what products are flying off the shelves and which ones are gathering dust.

Mangomint makes sure every visit feels tailored just for them. It's not magic – it's smart tech working hard behind the scenes so you can focus on snipping and styling.

Pricing

Diving into pricing doesn't have to be as daunting as untangling a head full of backcombed hair. Mangomint offers clear-cut plans, each designed with different salon sizes in mind. You'll find options perfect for solo stylists or bustling salons with teams larger than some small towns.

Mangomint does have a more premium price tag, with their entry price coming in at $165 per month. So, if budget is a concern, you might want to consider an alternative.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.8/5 rating (+17 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 5/5 rating (+97 reviews)

If real talk is what you're after, look at reviews from folks who've taken Mangomint out for a spin – a test drive if we’re sticking to analogies here. Users rave about how it turns chaotic schedules into organized bliss but take it all in stride since no system is absolutely flawless (though this one tries).

In short: happy stylists plus happier clients equals solid reviews lighting up faster than foils under heat lamps. Check out what users say directly on their site, and see why switching might just be your next best business move.

3. Meevo

Imagine a world where managing your salon is as smooth as that fresh keratin treatment. That's Meevo for you – a powerhouse platform designed to streamline every aspect of your business, from booking appointments to crunching numbers. Picture this: You're sipping coffee while Meevo automates confirmations and reminders, reducing no-shows like magic.

The beauty doesn't stop there. Meevo's robust inventory management system keeps track of products so efficiently. Plus, with real-time reporting at your fingertips, making informed decisions becomes second nature. So kick back and let Meevo do the heavy lifting.

Pricing

Talking cash? Don't sweat it. Meevo's pricing structure offers flexibility without breaking the bank. With tiered options tailored to salons big or small, you can choose what works best for your budget without compromising on features. Because Meevo is better suited for smaller teams, over solo stylists, their pricing does run more premium similar to that of Mangomint’s. Pricing starts at $139 per month and can go up to $529 per month depending on team size and features needed.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 3.5/5 rating (+43 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.3/5 rating (+212 reviews)

Meevo has some mixed reviews. On one end, you have ecstatic salon owners praising its user-friendly interface to stylists loving how easy rebooking clients has become, the reviews are glowing brighter than skin post-facial.

But, on the other end, some users have reported that they had difficulty with the onboarding process, leaving them feeling a bit lackluster about the platform. Most of these onboarding issues seem to be around payroll and payments – which is understandable why some customers aren’t that ecstatic. Nevertheless, reviews are subjective and it’s important to make your own judgements here.

4. Vagaro

Imagine your salon buzzing with clients, appointments booked back-to-back and you, at the helm of it all, cool as a cucumber. That's what Vagaro can bring to the table. It streamlines scheduling, payment processing, and inventory management so that running your salon feels like a breeze rather than a storm.

It also offers marketing tools to keep those appointment slots full. Think about having automated reminders so no-shows drop faster than hair clippings on a busy Saturday afternoon.

Pricing

Surely such sophistication must cost an arm and a leg? Nope. Vagaro’s pricing is very similar to that of GlossGenius’. Pricing starts at $25 per month – with pricing that scales based on the number of professionals using the platform you only pay for what you need. No more tossing money out the window.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.4/5 rating (+120 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.7/5 rating (+3,299 reviews)

If talk is cheap then reviews are worth their weight in gold, and Vagaro's got some shiny ones. Salon owners rave about how user-friendly this system is, even those who aren’t tech-savvy find themselves wielding its features like pros. Clients have chimed in too: they adore how easy it makes booking appointments without playing phone tag or waiting for call backs that sometimes never come.

5. Boulevard

Say goodbye to appointment mishaps and hello to Boulevard’s streamlined booking system. With its intuitive design, you can book clients without breaking a sweat – think less chaos, more zen garden vibes for your daily schedule.

This powerhouse doesn't just stop at scheduling – it handles inventory like a boss too. You'll know exactly when it's time to restock those color kits or add new products that fly off the shelves faster than the latest hair trend.

Pricing

Boulevard does run on the more premium side, with pricing plans starting at $175 per month. While Boulevard's pricing may not be bargain-bin level, what you get is optimal for your workflow efficiency – and let’s face it, peace of mind has no price tag.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.1/5 rating (+55 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.6/5 rating (+275 reviews)

The proof is always in the pudding – or should we say 'the reviews'? Salon owners are generally happy with the platform. Some users have complained about the user-interface and some limitations around daily reporting. But, it makes up for it in it’s great customer service.

6. Acuity Scheduling

Acuity Scheduling is an appointment scheduling platform designed for beauty and wellness businesses. If you’re a business that uses Squarespace for your hair salon website, then Acuity will be a great platform to use because of its seamless integration.

Plus, Acuity has great online booking features available around the clock, so clients can schedule their next cut or color when inspiration strikes at midnight. No need for phone tag – they book, and you wake up to an agenda filled faster than nail polish dries under UV light.

Need some me-time? Block out personal breaks directly in the calendar without playing Tetris with appointment slots. And if you love data (who doesn't?), get reports that show trends and track growth.

Pricing

Talking money isn’t always fun unless it involves saving some green while boosting efficiency. With tiered plans starting at just $20 per month, Acuity is a popular choice for independent stylists just starting out.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.7/5 star rating (+395 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.8/5 star rating (+5,500 reviews)

You don't have to take my word for how great Acuity is – check out reviews from other stylists who've turned their scheduling chaos into calm serenity. They rave about slashed admin time letting them focus more on snipping strands than clicking buttons. And we all know happy stylists mean radiant customers ready for their close-up.

7. Phorest

Phorest takes client management to next-level chic with features designed for those aiming to turn their salon into the talk of the town. Their intuitive booking system is smooth – your clients can book their next appointment faster than they can say "balayage". But wait, there’s more: from setting targets for staff performance to sending thank-you emails after appointments, this software helps create a personalized experience for your clients and customers.

Beyond just keeping things organized behind the scenes, Phorest goes public by helping you manage online reviews and boost your reputation. The 'Reputation Manager' tool makes sure no feedback slips through the cracks because let’s face it – your online rep is now as important as your scissors.

Pricing

Pricing for Phorest isn't plastered all over their website since they offer customized solutions based on individual needs (talk about VIP treatment.). So while I can’t spill exact numbers without knowing specifics about your salon empire-in-the-making, checking out their pricing page will give you a clear picture tailored just for you.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.4/5 rating (+30 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.8/5 rating (+362 reviews)

User reviews are a bit mixed with Phorest. Some customers on G2 report a lack of user-friendliness. But, the platform is feature packed – making it still a popular choice for many salon businesses. If user-friendliness is high on your list of must haves for your salon software, it might be worth looking into an alternative.

8. Mindbody

Picture this: Your salon is bustling, clients are happy, and you're in the zone. Now imagine a tool that keeps this vibe going every day. That's where Mindbody steps in.

Say goodbye to appointment mishaps and hello to smooth sailing with Mindbody's scheduling system designed for salons like yours. Think of it as your behind-the-scenes genie working 24/7 to keep things running without a hitch.

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It also gives your marketing muscle some flex with built-in tools that help target just the right audience. And let’s not forget about reports – these aren’t just numbers, they’re insights wrapped up in pretty graphs showing you exactly how well your salon performs.

Pricing

Similar to some other DaySmart alternatives on our list, Mindbody does run more on the premium side when it comes to pricing. Mindbody starts at $129 per month for most of the essential features you’ll need to get your salon business up and running. If you’re looking for something a bit more budget friendly, with similar features, it might be worth looking into an alternative.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 3.6/5 star rating (+377 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4/5 star rating (+2,700 reviews)

Mindbody has some mixed reviews, just check them out for yourself. Users spill the tea on everything from customer service experiences to real-life wins after making Mindbody their sidekick.

9. Booksy

Say goodbye to the chaos of salon management and hello to Booksy, your new digital fairy godmother. With its sleek interface, it transforms scheduling mess into a streamlined dream. No more juggling calls or deciphering handwriting that looks like ancient hieroglyphics – clients can book their own appointments with just a few taps on their phone.

The magic doesn't stop there – inventory tracking becomes as easy as pie (and who doesn’t love pie?). And let's not forget about marketing tools – it’s like having your very own cheerleading squad hyping you up 24/7. If you've ever wished for an extra pair of hands at the salon, consider this nifty app them.

Pricing

We all know money talks but in the case of Booksy, it sings. Booksy’s pricing starts at just $29.99 per month, with various pricing plans tailored to fit from solo magicians working their beauty spells solo to large teams crafting makeovers en masse.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 4.7/5 star rating (+5 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.4/5 star rating (+348 reviews)

You might be thinking: "Surely something so magical has got to have some kind of catch?" But if we peek over at what users are saying, they're practically throwing five-star confetti around. Longtime stylists and fresh faces alike sing praises about how much time and sanity they save by using Booksy's platform. The occasional grumble pops up about tech hiccups – but hey, even Cinderella had until midnight before her coach turned back into a pumpkin.

10. Salonist

Salonist is a smaller player on the block, but they have a promising future. Imagine your salon running smoother than a fresh keratin treatment. This platform is like your personal assistant who never takes a day off – organizing appointments, tracking client history, and even handling inventory with ease.

The standout feature? Its marketing automation tools are on point. They're like having an in-house social media guru boosting your business while you focus on those blowouts and balayages. And when it comes to reports, think less number-crunching headache and more clarity – with insights that help you make smart moves for growth.

Pricing

Salonist comes with a free plan that gives you unlimited clients. This free plan will give you access to online booking and scheduling features. But, if you want more comprehensive features like a POS system, appointment reminders, and sales reports, you’ll have to upgrade to a paid plan starting at $49.99 per month.

Reviews

• G2 reviews: 5/5 rating (+6 reviews)
• Capterra reviews: 4.4/5 rating (+22 reviews)

You wouldn’t buy foundation without checking its reviews first – same goes for choosing a POS system. So let’s peek at what users say about Salonist. Clients rave about how user-friendly it is. Salon owners have noticed tangible improvements in no-show rates thanks to reliable reminders sent out by Salonist itself – it's basically nipping appointment amnesia in the bud. Plus, there's chatter about responsive customer service ready to jump in faster than you can say 'trim'. It seems clear that Salonists' users feel supported every step of the way.

Conclusion

So, we’ve gone through the best DaySmart alternatives, each with its own charm. Some promise slick interfaces, others boast robust features.

Remember GlossGenius and its ease of use? Or Mangomint's smooth scheduling flow? They're just starters in a feast of options. You found out Vagaro isn't just another pretty face – it delivers power to your fingertips. And let's not forget Boulevard, where luxury meets tech genius.

Mindbody had you nodding along with its wellness-centric approach while Phorest planted seeds for growth. These tools aren't mere backups, they're game changers for salons and spas looking to level up. Pick one that resonates with your vibe, make it yours, and watch your business flourish. The potential of finding the correct platform is astounding – you'll be better off when all's said and done.

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