Bookly Plugin 2025: Full Setup Tutorial & Free vs Pro

Learn how to install, configure, and customize the Bookly plugin for WordPress. This tutorial covers both the free and Pro versions, helping you build a powerful appointment booking system for any service-based business.

Bookly Pluginis a leading WordPress booking plugin used by salons, clinics, tutors, consultants, and service providers. It offers:

  • Online appointment scheduling
  • SMS/email notifications
  • Staff and service management
  • WooCommerce and payment gateway integration
  • Mobile-friendly booking forms

How to Install Bookly Plugin (Free & Pro)

Step 1: Install Bookly Free

  • Go to Dashboard → Plugins → Add New
  • Search for “Bookly”
  • Click Install Now, then Activate

Step 2: Purchase Bookly Pro

Step 3: Upload Bookly Pro

  • Go to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin
  • Upload the Bookly Pro ZIP
  • Click Install Now, then Activate

Step 4: Activate License

  • Go to Bookly → Settings → License
  • Enter your purchase code from CodeCanyon

 

Initial Configuration

1. Add Services

  • Go to Bookly → Services
  • Create categories (e.g., Haircut, Consultation, Therapy)
  • Add duration, price, padding time, and visibility

2. Add Staff Members

  • Go to Bookly → Staff Members
  • Assign services, working hours, breaks, and holidays
  • Add profile images and contact info

3. Customize Booking Form

  • Go to Appearance → Booking Form
  • Choose layout style, colors, and step order
  • Enable/disable fields like extras, notes, or coupon codes

4. Set Up Notifications

  • Go to Bookly → Notifications
  • Customize SMS and email templates
  • Enable reminders, confirmations, and follow-ups

5. Configure Payments

  • Go to Bookly → Payments
  • Enable PayPal, Stripe, or WooCommerce
  • Set deposit options, tax, and currency

6. Sync with Google Calendar

  • Go to Bookly → Google Calendar
  • Connect via OAuth and assign staff calendars
  • Enable real-time sync and conflict prevention

 

Front-End Integration

  • Use shortcode: [bookly-form]
  • Embed in any page or Elementor section
  • Customize visibility with conditional logic or user roles

 

Optimization Tips

  • Use WP Rocket or LiteSpeed Cache for speed
  • Enable lazy loading for booking form assets
  • Use Rank Math for SEO schema on service pages
  • Compress images with ShortPixel
  • Track conversions with Google Tag Manager

 

Who Should Use the Bookly Plugin?

  • Salons & Spas: Haircuts, facials, massages
  • Clinics & Therapists: Consultations, follow-ups
  • Tutors & Coaches: Sessions, packages, group bookings
  • Freelancers & Consultants: Strategy calls, audits
  • Agencies: Build scalable booking systems for clients

 

Need Help Setting Up Bookly Bookly Plugin?

If you want expert help installing Bookly, customizing workflows, or integrating payments and calendars, we offer professional WordPress services tailored for service-based businesses and agencies.

Let’s build your high-converting booking system the smart way. Contact us today

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