FAQs

What is Squarespace? 

Squarespace is a pre-built website platform that allows me to create your customized website and it has simple functionality so you can easily manage the website on-going. 

What is Shopify?

Shopify is a pre-built website platform where you can sell your products online. I use it to create your customized e-commerce website, and its simple functionality allows you to easily manage your store on-going.

Which is better for me: Squarespace or Shopify?

Squarespace is the best platform for showcasing your services. Shopify is the great if you sell physical products - it has much more functionality for store owners that are designed to help you sell. 

How much time will I need to commit to the website building process?

For a single page website:

Pre-build: 1-2 hours. This includes the 30 minute consultation call and completing your client checklist items (website questionnaire and selecting your branding).

Build day: 1 hour. This includes 30 minutes to review your page and provide any minor edits that I can make on the call, followed by a 30 minute training so you can learn how to manage your site going forward.

For a full website:

Pre-build: 2-8 hours. This includes the 30 minute consultation call and completing your client checklist items (website questionnaire and gathering content and photography).

Build Week 1: 1-5 hours. This includes a 60 minute design kick-off call and time to review and approve the website layout (or wireframes) before I begin building the website.

Build Week 2: 2-5 hours. This includes the time you need to provide me edits to your website draft and the Squarespace training before I hand over the website to you.  

Please select a two-week time frame when you will be available for questions and website reviews. 

How long does it take to complete my website?

For a single page website: Two days. For a full website: only two weeks. And I only book one client at a time so I can focus solely on you and your website. 

What types of things are on the client checklist?

One is a website questionnaire that helps me understand your business, goals and vision for your website. It's very important to spend time working through it - the more information you can provide the better I can bring your vision to life. You will also need to provide your website copy (for full websites only) and photos. 

Do you help with creating the content for a full website?

Since you know your brand the best, I ask that you provide the content. I will provide recommendations and marketing language in areas I see fit to ensure we're grabbing your audience's attention. Upon booking, I will provide you with an outline to help guide you in creating content or you can hire a copywriter if you wish. 

How do I go about getting high quality images for my website?

It's very important to have high resolution images for your website. This could make or break your brand which is vital in building your customers trust and loyalty. If you do not have high-quality (non-iPhone) images, you can find stock photography (some images may cost to purchase) or hire a photographer (preferred) to capture your brand images. 

Do you help with branding (e.g. logos, colors, fonts, etc. to use on the website)?

For single-page websites, I have a few generic options for you to select from. For full websites, I ask that you provide a branding style guide and assets (logos, favicon, font type) prior to the web design. The first thing people notice when they come to a website is the branding. If this isn't strong, users may leave your website or may perceive your brand in a way that's not how you intend. I partner with brand strategists and designers who can help get you started. 

What types of clients do you work with?

I work with soloprenuers and small business owners who are highly motivated and passionate about launching or growing their businesses. Most clients I work with are in industries such as massage therapy, financial, art, health and fitness, coaching, and much more.

What is mobile optimization?

Many people are using their smartphones, tablets or iPads to browse online. It's important that your website is easy to use not only on a desktop (e.g. laptop) but on other devices. That's why I ensure your website works well on any device so every potential customer can have a great experience. 

What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?

SEO is a process where you use keywords, content and strategic planning to ensure your website is visible to users when they search online for related services. This is always an on-going process to ensure optimal ranking in search engine results pages but I will set you up with the foundation which includes optimized URL's, meta titles, meta description and alt text for each page and image. 

Why is it important to have Google Analytics set up?

I highly recommend everyone who has a website to use Google Analytics (it's free!). With Google Analytics, you can better understand your customers including their demographics, behaviors, interests and much more, so you can make sure you're focusing on the right things in your business. 

Do I need to set up any 3rd party platforms like MailChimp, Acuity, Google Analytics, etc.?

Yes, you will need to have any accounts set up so I can take your account information and integrate it into the website. You may need to use your personal email address to create the account prior to the design date, then you can switch your email after we set up a business one upon purchasing your new domain (URL). 

Are there any other costs not included in your packages? 

Yes, you'll need to account for the cost of the hosting platform, domain hosting, a unique Gmail account, and (stock) photography.

Squarespace starts at $16/month and Shopify starts at is $29/month*. Once I hand over the website to you, you will be able to provide your credit card information and select your payment option directly in Squarespace or Shopify. 

The cost for your domain purchase averages $10-$20/year (and can be included in the monthly cost of Squarespace or Shopify). If you have an existing domain, I can easily transfer it to your new website. 

If you'd like to set up G Suite (Gmail by Google), there may be an additional monthly cost (which can be included in the monthly cost of Squarespace or Shopify).

Lastly, if you will need (stock) photography for your website, there may be a charge depending on the type and amount of images you wish to purchase. 

*Costs as of 12/2022. Please check Squarespace or Shopify for latest pricing. 

I'm ready to book! What happens next?

First, fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary 30 minute consultation. We'll use this time to get to know each other, learn about your business, provide you with insight into the web design process, and make sure we're the right fit for each other. Once you’re ready to move forward, I'll have you sign a contract, place a 50% non-refundable deposit, and schedule you in my design queue. Then you'll receive a client checklist to be completed one week prior to your design start date.