Porter gives you flexible scheduling tools to fit every type of client interaction. Whether someone walks in off the street or books a multi-session tattoo project months in advance, here’s how to decide which option to use:
🚶♂️ Walk-Ins (Schedule for Right Now)
If the client is already at the shop and you're about to start their service, use the Walk-In option. This is the fastest way to:
Add the client to the calendar immediately (current time)
Automatically send the waiver (if enabled)
Check the appointment out after it's done
Trigger post-appointment messaging like aftercare instructions and review requests
👉 Walk-ins are ideal for in-the-moment appointments and keep your records clean.
📅 Appointments (Schedule for Later)
If the client is booking for a future date and time, use Schedule Appointment.
With future appointments, you can:
Choose any day and time in the future
Add a deposit to hold the spot
Optionally send a booking link so the client can pick their own date/time
Trigger automatic confirmations, reminders, waivers, and aftercare
👉 Use this for any planned service that’s not happening right away.
💬 Consultations (Free, Pre-Appointment Meetings)
Consultations in Porter are:
Always free
Short (typically 15–60 minutes)
Meant to discuss project ideas before booking a tattoo or other service
They work just like appointments, but with no deposit and no service charge.
Perfect for building trust with first-time clients or planning large projects.
Choose the flow that fits your situation, and Porter will handle the rest—from waivers to payments to post-care.