Set a default request message

Write it once in Settings → Branding & portal under Default request message, and GarnerDocs fills it in on every new request. You can still change it on each request before you send it.

Steps

1. 1

   Open the tab

   Select Settings, then Branding & portal.

2. 2

   Write your message

   Edit the text under Default request message. Use {first name} for the client contact's first name and {request} for the request's title. GarnerDocs fills both in for you.

3. 3

   Save

   Select Save branding.

Until you change it, the message is:

Hi {first name}, we need a few documents to prepare your {request}. Upload the files below whenever you're ready.

For a client called Daniel and a request titled "Year-end accounts 2026", that reads "Hi Daniel, we need a few documents to prepare your Year-end accounts 2026."

Where your client sees it

• The request email, above the list of documents you need.
• The upload page, under the greeting at the top.

Reminders don't repeat it. To add a personal line to a reminder, send one with a message.

Changing it on one request

In New request, the third step, Due date, message & reminders, has a Message to client box. It starts with your default message, already filled in for that client and title. Change it however you like; it only affects that request. You can also change it later with Edit details on the request.

Good to know

• The default message can be up to 2,000 characters.
• In New request, if the client has no contact first name, "Hi {first name}, we need…" becomes "We need…".
• Changing the default doesn't change requests you've already created.
• Recurring collection workflows use your default message for the requests they create.
• Line breaks are kept, both in the email and on the upload page.
• Clearing the box and saving brings back the standard message.