Inventory-Based Rental Businesses – How Are You Integrating Catalogs into HoneyBook?

Hi ​@Angeli Hughes! 

Such a great question—and you're definitely not alone in navigating this! I am not an inventory-based business, but I am a HoneyBook Pro and I’ve worked with a few inventory-based businesses, and it can be tricky to balance showcasing your full catalog with keeping clients on a clear, conversion-focused path.

It’s really dependent on the type of service, the client, and lots of factors to figure out what will work well.

Here are a few approaches I’ve seen:

✅ Option 1: Highlight Key Inventory in a Smart File

Instead of trying to build your entire catalog into a Smart File, some rental pros select their most popular or seasonal pieces and create a streamlined “Favorites” or “Best Sellers” section within the file. This keeps the client engaged in one flow while still giving them a sense of options. You can include images, pricing, and even clickable service selections with quantity if you’d like.

✅ Option 2: Use Image Blocks as a Visual Gallery

Instead of uploading a PDF or linking out, try using image blocks inside your Smart File to create a scrolling gallery of rental items. You can organize it by type or collection and include short captions or pricing under each image. This keeps clients inside the Smart File and helps them visually browse without disruption.

✅ Option 3: Website Catalog + Embedded Form

If your website already has a great browsing experience, you can direct clients to browse there before they enter HoneyBook, and then use your Smart File as a follow-up quote or selection confirmation form. This keeps the file simple and action-oriented, and helps you avoid overwhelming clients with too many choices at once.

I totally agree with you—linking out mid-process can sometimes break the momentum. That’s why combining Smart Files with visuals and strategic catalog delivery can really improve the overall client flow.

Does this help you?

Thank you for the advice Kaitlyn! I was going to use step 2 but it just felt like a lot to look at. Per your advice I’ll keep it on the website and Highlight only key items in the smart file. I appreciate your time!

​@Angeli Hughes Awesome! It definitely can feel like a lot. It’s so dependent on the industry and client! I’m so glad I could help :) If you ever want to rework the process in the future if your inventory grows, just put it back here in the community and I’d be happy to help! 

But for any other inventory-based business, curious to hear your thoughts as well!