Cancellation fee without being told terms ?

[BeNattyPlumSquid]

This is my first post, so please be kind! I am posting as I really don’t know if I am being unreasonable and would love a second opinion.
I had a booking with a hairdresser. I am a new client and they did not inform me of any cancellation policies at booking. My childcare fell through so I cancelled with 24 hours notice, which was as soon as I knew. They have now said I owe 50% of the appointment cost as I cancelled the day before. I have my own company myself and completely understand where they are coming from but I am also very upfront on my ts&cs to any new client and would never ask for a payment without being clear first.

AMBU to refuse to pay? Should I ignore them and never return? Should I offer a smaller amount?
opinions greatly appreciated!

Did you get any T&Cs with the booking confirmation?

Offer nothing. They have to tell you about a cancellation fee before they can legally charge one.

Don’t respond as they can’t enforce it and should tell you ahead of time but equally you’ll have to find a new hairdresser

It depends if you want an ongoing relationship with her. If you refuse and there’s no evidence of having informed you of the t’s and c’s she’s unlikely to pursue it but it’ll be very awkward if you see her again.

How did you book? In person? Online?

Is it on her website or social media?

Do you want your hair cut her again? If not you can probably ignore, it's unlikely she'll chase you down for it.

The right thing would be to pay it though as she will have lost income by the late cancellation.

She is a good hairdresser, so it would be a shame but £50 for nothing seems a-bit steep! I felt 24 hours was enough notice to be honest but at the same time do get it.
I booked in person and she didn’t say anything, she doesn’t have a website and I didn’t even look at the social media’s.
thanks for the opinions everyone!