Do I have to stop taking messages?

No. Put the link in your bio. When someone asks to book in a message, reply with the link.

What if a client will not use a link?

You can book them from the dashboard. That appointment is on the same calendar as the ones clients book themselves.

Booked vs Instagram DMs

A booking request in Instagram direct messages sits in the same inbox as your other messages. There is no separate record of who is booked, and you reply to confirm each request. Booked is a link you can put in your bio so a client can book without that exchange.

Comparison

	Instagram DMs	Booked
Where the schedule lives	In the message thread, and in whatever notes you keep	On a calendar. The time is taken when the client books it
No-shows	The request stays in the message thread	Deposits at booking, on Pro, and reminders before the appointment
Your time	You confirm each booking in a conversation	The client uses the link in your bio and books without a message
Card processing	None	Optional, on Pro. The default is 3.75% + 45¢ per successful charge, all-in

Choose Instagram DMs when

You have few enough requests that you can answer the inbox.
You consult with the client in messages before the service.
You want to reply to messages yourself while you build an audience.

Choose Booked when

You have missed a booking request in the inbox.
You answer the same question about open times several times a day.
You want a deposit taken when the client books. Deposits require Pro.

Questions

Do I have to stop taking messages?: No. Put the link in your bio. When someone asks to book in a message, reply with the link.
What if a client will not use a link?: You can book them from the dashboard. That appointment is on the same calendar as the ones clients book themselves.