Why Elite Bodywork Enforces a Late Cancellation Policy & Why We Can’t Make Exceptions

Tiffany Sandoval
Feb 12
3 min read

Life happens—we’ve all been there. Last-minute meetings, unexpected deadlines, traffic delays, or a sick child needing care. We completely understand. However, if you cancel your appointment with less than 48 hours’ notice, a cancellation fee will still apply. Here’s why.

Policies

The Cancellation Policy: Transparent and Fair

When you book at Elite Bodywork, you agree to a clear cancellation policy: appointments canceled within 48 hours of the scheduled time will incur a charge.

This isn’t hidden in the fine print—it’s listed on our booking page, in confirmation emails, and on intake forms. You acknowledge it before your session is confirmed. While we empathize with unexpected work and life conflicts, maintaining this policy ensures fairness for both clients and our practice.

Why We Can’t Make Exceptions

Clients ask:

“Can you make an exception just this once?”
“My car broke down.”
“I woke up sick.”
“My pet had an emergency.”

While we sympathize, making exceptions sets a precedent. If one client is excused, fairness requires we extend the same to everyone. With dozens of clients each month, even a handful of exceptions could add up to major financial loss—threatening the sustainability of a small, woman-owned business.

This policy isn’t about a lack of compassion—it’s about protecting our time, ensuring fairness, and keeping our doors open so we can continue offering the high-level care professionals depend on to perform at their best.

Why You’d Accept It Elsewhere

Imagine purchasing a non-refundable flight for a business trip. If your schedule changes or a meeting gets rescheduled, the airline doesn’t refund your ticket.

The cost of a missed massage may not equal a plane ticket, but for small businesses, it makes a critical difference in being able to serve clients consistently. Supporting small businesses means respecting the policies that allow them to thrive.

A Policy Built on Mutual Respect

When you book, we set aside that time exclusively for you. We prepare for your specific needs—whether that’s postural pain from desk work, stress relief, or recovery from long hours of travel.

And fairness goes both ways: if we ever cancel within 48 hours, your next session is free. That’s how much we value your time, just as much as ours.

Emergencies happen, and we genuinely understand. But by honoring the cancellation policy, you help us continue delivering the personalized care career-driven clients need to stay at the top of their game.

Collage showing massage, knee pain, back soreness, and woman in center with "Elite Pain Relief, Tiffany Sandoval & Mobility Expert" text.

FAQ: Understanding Our Cancellation Policy

Q: Why do you charge for late cancellations? A: A last-minute cancellation leaves a gap in our schedule that’s nearly impossible to fill. That’s lost time and income, which directly impacts our ability to serve other clients.

Q: What if I have a work emergency? A: We understand unexpected things happen. Our policy applies consistently to be fair to all clients. Please notify us as soon as possible if something comes up.

Q: What if I’m sick? A: We appreciate you prioritizing health and safety. However, our 48-hour policy still applies. If you’re unsure about your health, consider rescheduling earlier rather than waiting until the last moment.

Q: Can I transfer my appointment to someone else? A: Yes! You’re welcome to send a colleague, friend, or family member in your place. Just let us know ahead of time.

Q: How do I avoid cancellation fees? A: The best way is to reschedule or cancel at least 48 hours in advance. If your career schedule is unpredictable, consider booking closer to the time you know you’ll be available.

Lake Elsinore Massage — Tiffany Sandoval with Elite Pain Relief specializing in Medical Sports Massage Practices in OC & Lake Elsinore CA.

About Elite Bodywork San Clemente

At Elite Bodywork, we specialize in helping busy professionals relieve pain, restore mobility, and recover stronger—so they can perform at their best in career and life. With over 13 years of advanced training in RAPID NeuroFascial Reset, Fascial Stretch Therapy, and lymphatic recovery, Tiffany Sandoval delivers advanced soft tissue therapy that gets real results. Connect with her here or on LinkedIn.