The week before
List the dates
Write down every day you’re closed or open short hours, including the day before and after if those change.
Add the dates in FrontDesk Talk
On the Receptionist page, under Holidays and special dates, add each day you’re closed or open short hours, with a note for callers if you like. Your receptionist tells callers you’re closed and when you reopen, instead of offering times you won’t be there, and the dates end on their own.
Update Google and your website
Callers check Google first. Add special hours to your Google Business Profile so it matches what your receptionist says.
Decide who covers urgent calls
Pick who gets urgent transfers over the holiday, and update the transfer number if it isn’t you. Tighten the urgent list if you want a quiet day.
Forward everything, if you like
If your phone normally rings first, you can switch to always forwarding for the holiday so your receptionist answers every call.
Test, then switch back
Make one test call before the holiday. After it, set forwarding and the transfer number back to normal.
Put a reminder on your calendar for the day after the holiday to switch forwarding and your transfer number back.
What callers ask around holidays
Give your receptionist answers to these before the rush.
Are you open?
The most common holiday question. Your special dates answer it.
When can I get in?
On a booking plan, your receptionist offers the next open slot after you reopen.
Is anyone on call?
Say what’s covered and what isn’t. “We’ll take urgent calls about no heat” is clearer than “limited service.”
Questions
Do I need to change my greeting?
Usually not. A special date with a note is enough, and there’s nothing to forget to change back. If you want to mention the holiday, keep the note short.
Can I set holiday hours ahead of time?
Yes. In FrontDesk Talk, add them under Holidays and special dates on the Receptionist page, up to two years ahead, and they end on their own. On Google, in your Business Profile, select Edit profile, then Hours, and next to Special hours select Edit. Google says special hours cover up to 6 days in a row.
Will calls cost more on a holiday?
No. Holiday calls use Talk Time the same way as any other day.
Source, checked September 2026: Google Business Profile Help: How to set special hours. Menus can change. If a step doesn't match, check the source.
Stop paying for voicemail.
Setup takes a few minutes. Cancel anytime.