10/09/2026
Okay… this is kind of freaky, and it has me thinking.
Someone recently created a fake profile in an attempt to make a booking with me.
Obviously, that profile was reported, and the person whose image they used to set up their faux profile was found and informed... but it also got me thinking about how we handle safety as small business owners who meet clients in person.
The majority of my clientele already comes through referrals, trusted connections, or returning clients, which has always given me a pretty comfortable sense of who I'm welcoming into my space.
But with the way things are today, I'm wondering…
What are other photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, estheticians, businesses in general etc. doing to keep themselves and their clients safe?
Do you verify profiles? Require a phone number? Ask for a deposit before confirming? Have a consultation first? Only accept referrals?
I'd genuinely love to hear what everyone else is doing because I think this is something we should all be talking about.
And just to be clear: creating a fake profile or using false information to obtain a booking will always be reported.
There are respectful ways to inquire and book... pretending to be someone else isn't one of them.
What would you suggest? 🤍