How to Communicate a Price Increase to Your Clients

Everyone dreads this conversation

Raising your prices is the thing every service provider puts off as long as possible. What if they get offended? What if they leave? What if they think I'm greedy?

Here's the reality: most of your clients will understand. Product costs go up, rent goes up, and you're better at your job than you were two years ago. A price increase is a normal business decision.

Give people a heads-up

The worst thing you can do is surprise someone with a new price at the till. Give at least 2-3 weeks' notice. You can mention it at the end of an appointment, send a quick email, or post it on your Instagram Story.

Something like: "From March 1st, I'm updating my prices. A cut and blow-dry will be £35 instead of £30. Thanks for your understanding!"

Don't over-explain

A short reason is fine ("product costs have gone up"), but don't write a three-paragraph apology. That actually signals that you don't believe your work is worth the price.

Don't apologise

You haven't done anything wrong. Your work is worth more than what you've been charging. Full stop.

Update your booking page

If you use HoldASpot, just change the price on the service. Your clients will see the new price when they book, so there's no awkward surprise when they arrive.

What happens after

You might lose a couple of clients. That's normal. But the ones who stay value your work, not just the price. And long-term, it's better to work with fewer clients who pay fairly than to underprice yourself for everyone.