Beauty specialist profile on Websta: how to set up in New Zealand

What your profile page should contain

Your Websta profile is a place where you describe who you are, what you do, and how people can reach you. Start with a clear description of your services - for example, whether you offer haircuts, colouring, nails, skin treatments, massage, or a combination. Be specific about what you specialise in rather than listing everything you have ever done.

Add photos of your work. These are the first thing potential clients look at. Include before-and-after photos where they show the result clearly. If you work in a salon or studio, add a photo of your space. A photo of you at work helps people know who they are booking with.

List your services with short descriptions. For each service, write what it includes and roughly how long it takes. If you offer different versions - for example, a basic or deluxe option for the same service - list them separately so people can choose.

Include a booking or quote request option. A Websta profile lets customers either book a time slot directly if you set your availability, or send you a message to ask for a quote. Both work; choose what suits how you take bookings now.

• Your location (town or suburb where you work)
• How to contact you (your profile handles messages)
• Languages you work in (English, te reo Maori, or others)
• Any qualifications or certifications that matter to clients

How customers in New Zealand search for beauty specialists

People looking for a beauty specialist in New Zealand use Websta's marketplace to search by service and location. They can search for a specific service like 'haircut', 'nail technician', or 'beauty therapist', then filter by the town or area near them. This is how they find you when they do not already know your name.

Websta's marketplace for beauty specialists in New Zealand is at websta.ai/marketplace/beauty. Customers search there when they need a service and want to see who is available nearby. Your profile appears in these search results if you have listed the service and location.

Setting up as an independent beauty provider

If you work for yourself in New Zealand, check what registration or licensing you need. Requirements vary depending on what services you offer. For example, some beauty services may need a health and safety certificate or training qualification; others do not. Contact your local council or your industry body to find out what applies to your work.

If you are registered as a sole trader or have a business name, that information can help you set up your profile. You keep all payments your clients make to you - Websta processes payments through Stripe to your own bank account, and you manage your pricing and availability.

Payment and booking

When a customer books or pays through Websta, the money goes to your own bank account via Stripe. You set your own prices for each service. Keep records of what you earn and what you spend, as you will need these for tax purposes - talk to an accountant or the IRD if you are unsure about your tax obligations as a self-employed person.

Language and reaching your market

Decide which languages to use on your profile. English reaches the widest audience across New Zealand. If you also speak te reo Maori or another language, you can use that as well - it helps you connect with clients who speak it and shows you understand your local community.

What to write in your first hour

When you first set up, focus on the basics. Write a one or two sentence description of what you do - 'I offer haircuts, colouring, and treatments for all hair types' or 'Beauty therapist - facials, waxing, and massage in central Auckland'. Be clear and honest about what you actually do.

Add your location - the town or area where you work. If you work from home or a salon, say which suburb or area. If you travel to clients, say which areas you cover.

List at least three services you offer most often, with rough times and any short notes - for example, 'Haircut - 45 minutes', 'Colour touch-up - 60 minutes', 'Deep conditioning treatment - 30 minutes'.

Upload at least one photo of your work or your space. You can add more later, but start with one clear image so people see what to expect.

Write how people can book - do you have set times they can choose from, or do you prefer them to message you with their preferred date and time. Either way, make it clear.

Next steps after setup

After your first hour, add more photos as you have them - different styles, clients, or treatments show the range of what you can do. Update your availability regularly so people know when they can book you. Reply to messages and booking requests quickly; most customers expect a response within a day.

Tell your existing clients and your network about your Websta profile so they know where to find you and book online. Ask clients if they would be happy to have their photos on your profile - with permission, real examples of your work are your best advertisement.