1. Enabling the Service

SMS messaging is enabled upon request.

  • Cost: 3 cents per text message sent.
  • Activation: Once our team enables the feature for your account, a new SMS section will appear under your Notification Setup page.

2. Configuring the Automated Reminder

In the Notification Setup > SMS section, you can define the following:

  • Enable Reminders: Check the box to activate the automated service.
  • Custom Message: Enter your preferred reminder text.
  • Timing: Set the duration (e.g., 24 hours or 2 hours) before the appointment that the message should be sent.

⚠️ Character Limit: Messages are strictly limited to 160 characters. This includes "macros" (like $(time) on $(d_medium) ) once they are expanded into full words.

3. The Participant Experience

During the booking process, participants are not automatically signed up for texts. They will see an opt-in checkbox asking if they would like to receive an SMS Reminder.

  • If they check the box and provide a mobile number, the system will automatically queue their reminder for the time you specified.

4. Sending Reminders "On Demand"

If you need to send a manual blast to participants (for example, if there is a sudden schedule change or weather delay), you can do so from the Appointments List page:

  1. Filter your list by the specific Event or Date.
  2. Select the participants you wish to reach.
  3. Click the Send SMS drop-down menu to broadcast your message. Note: This will only send to participants who originally opted-in to receive SMS notifications.

SMS Best Practices

  • Keep it Brief: Since you only have 160 characters, focus on the Who, When, and Where.
  • Example Message: "Reminder: Your appointment is at $(time) on $(d_medium) at the $(location).  Please arrive 5 mins early. See you soon!"