How to set up a barber profile in the United Kingdom

What your Websta profile should contain

Your profile is your shop window online. Customers in the UK will expect to see clear information about what you do, how to reach you, and how to book. Start with a profile photo of yourself - a professional headshot works well. Add a brief description of your service: the types of haircuts you do, whether you offer beard trims, hot towel treatments, or other specialist services.

The core sections you need are a services list, pricing set by you, photos of your work, and a way for customers to book or request a quote. Many barbers in the UK use online booking because it reduces phone calls and lets customers choose a time slot that suits them. If you prefer to discuss the appointment first, a contact form lets people message you before booking.

Photos matter. Include shots of your workspace, your tools, and examples of cuts and styles you have done. Keep them clear and well-lit. Customers want to see what they can expect.

• Profile photo and business description
• Services list with descriptions
• Prices you set yourself
• Photos of your workspace and work
• Online booking or quote request form
• Contact details (address, phone, email)

Which languages to use

Publish your profile in English. This covers the vast majority of customers in the United Kingdom. If you work in an area with a large community that speaks another language - for example, Polish, Urdu, or Mandarin - consider adding a second language version of key sections like your services and prices. Websta allows multiple languages on one profile.

How people in the UK search for barbers

Customers find barbers through search engines, local business directories, and word of mouth. On Websta, people search by service (barber) and location. If you are in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or any other town, someone nearby looking for a haircut will see your profile if it is live in the marketplace for your area.

Many UK customers use Google Maps or search engines to find a barber near them. Having a live Websta profile means you appear in local search results. The marketplace on Websta also shows nearby providers, so someone in your town looking for barber services will see you listed.

What you need to arrange as an independent provider

Working as an independent barber in the United Kingdom means you are self-employed. You must register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for self-assessment tax and pay income tax and National Insurance on your earnings. Check the HMRC website for current rules on thresholds and deadlines.

Payments from customers come through Websta via Stripe and go straight to your own bank account. You keep control of your prices and when you work. You are responsible for your own insurance - public liability insurance is common for barbers and protects you if a customer is injured or claims damage.

Check with your local council about any licensing or registration requirements for running a barber shop in your area. Most areas in the UK do not require a special license to work as a barber, but rules can vary. If you rent a chair in a shared salon or shop, your landlord or the salon owner may have their own terms.

Keep records of your income and expenses for tax purposes. This includes what you earn through Websta and any other work. You will need these records when you file your self-assessment tax return.

What to write in the first hour

When you first set up your profile, focus on the essentials. Write a short description of yourself - one or two sentences about your experience and what you specialize in. Add a list of the main services you offer and the price you charge for each. Take a photo of yourself and upload it.

Add your address, phone number, and email. If you want customers to book online, set up your available time slots. If you prefer quote requests, add a message explaining how you work - for example, 'Contact me to discuss your haircut and arrange a time.'

Upload at least three photos: one of your workspace, one showing your tools or chair, and one or two of haircuts or styles you have done. These do not need to be professional photography - clear phone photos work.

How online booking and payments work

When you enable online booking on Websta, customers can see your available times and book a slot. You confirm or adjust the appointment. Payments are handled through Stripe, a secure payment system. Money goes to your own bank account within a few days.

If you use the quote request option instead, customers send you a message describing what they want, and you reply with a price and available times. You then agree on a time and collect payment when they arrive, or through Websta if they pay online.

Building your reputation

Once customers start booking through Websta, they can leave feedback about your service. Good reviews help other people nearby find you. Respond to feedback - thank people for positive reviews and address any concerns professionally. Keep your profile up to date with new photos of your work and current prices.