When most people think of appointment booking, they picture hair salons or doctor's offices. But Shopify merchants are getting creative, using booking systems in ways that drive revenue, improve customer experience, and differentiate their brands.
Here are 10 innovative ways real Shopify stores are using Easy Appointment Booking.
1. Virtual Personal Shopping Sessions
The concept: Customers book one-on-one video calls with stylists who help them shop the store in real-time.
Why it works:
- Recreates the in-store experience online
- Dramatically increases average order value
- Builds customer loyalty through personalization
Real results: One fashion boutique saw their average order value increase by 340% for virtual styling sessions compared to self-service orders.
2. Product Pickup Scheduling
The concept: Instead of chaotic BOPIS (buy online, pickup in-store) queues, customers book specific pickup time slots.
Why it works:
- Eliminates wait times for customers
- Helps staff prepare orders in advance
- Reduces store congestion during busy periods
Pro tip: Offer a small discount for booking off-peak pickup times to spread demand.
3. Equipment Rentals
The concept: Outdoor and sports retailers let customers book equipment rentals with specific start/end dates.
Why it works:
- Monetizes inventory that would otherwise sit idle
- Creates recurring revenue streams
- Brings customers back to the store
Works great for: Ski shops, bike stores, camera retailers, party supply stores.
4. In-Store Consultations
The concept: Specialty retailers offer expert consultations to help customers make informed purchases.
Examples:
- Running shoe fitting sessions
- Skincare consultations
- Bike sizing appointments
- Mattress sleep consultations
Why it works: Customers who receive expert guidance are more confident in their purchases and less likely to return items.
5. Workshop and Class Registration
The concept: Stores monetize their expertise by offering paid workshops and classes.
Examples:
- Art supply stores: Painting classes
- Kitchen stores: Cooking workshops
- Craft stores: DIY sessions
- Garden centers: Planting workshops
Why it works: Creates an additional revenue stream while building community around your brand.
6. Service Add-Ons for Products
The concept: Offer installation, setup, or customization services alongside product purchases.
Examples:
- Electronics: Setup and data transfer
- Furniture: Delivery and assembly
- Jewelry: Engraving and sizing
- Bikes: Assembly and first tune-up
Pro tip: Upsell services during checkout for products that commonly need them.
7. VIP Early Access Events
The concept: Let loyal customers book appointments to shop sales or new collections before the general public.
Why it works:
- Rewards your best customers
- Creates exclusivity and urgency
- Generates buzz on social media
Implementation idea: Offer VIP booking slots to customers in your top loyalty tier.
8. Trade and Professional Appointments
The concept: B2B customers book dedicated time for bulk ordering, special pricing, or professional consultations.
Examples:
- Interior designers browsing fabric samples
- Contractors ordering building materials
- Event planners selecting party supplies
- Salon owners buying wholesale
Why it works: Professional buyers need focused attention and often place large orders.
9. Try-Before-You-Buy Sessions
The concept: Let customers book time to try products in-store or at home before committing to purchase.
Works great for:
- High-end audio equipment
- Musical instruments
- Camping and outdoor gear
- Luxury fashion items
Why it works: Reduces purchase anxiety for high-ticket items and decreases return rates.
10. Subscription Box Customization
The concept: Subscription customers book calls to customize their upcoming boxes based on their preferences.
Why it works:
- Reduces churn by increasing satisfaction
- Gathers valuable customer preference data
- Creates a personal connection with subscribers
Getting Started
The beauty of appointment booking is its flexibility. Start with one use case that fits your business, then expand as you see results.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- What expertise do you have that customers would pay for?
- What products benefit from personalized service?
- Where do customers get stuck in their buying journey?
- What would make your best customers feel special?
Start Simple
You don't need to implement all 10 ideas. Pick one that:
- Aligns with your brand
- Solves a real customer problem
- Can be staffed with your current team
- Has clear revenue potential
Measure and Iterate
Track these metrics to gauge success:
- Booking conversion rate
- Average order value (booked vs. non-booked)
- Customer satisfaction scores
- Repeat booking rate
Ready to explore what appointment booking can do for your store? Start your free trial and see how creative you can get.