website redesign

3 Things To Ask Your Designer Before a Website Project Begins

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A strong online presence is essential for businesses and individuals alike. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to establish your brand or an individual with a passion project, having a well-designed website can make all the difference. However, diving into a website project without clear communication with your designer can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and unsatisfactory results. To ensure a successful web development journey, it’s crucial to ask your designer the right questions before the project begins. In this blog post, we’ll explore three key questions to ask your designer to set the stage for a productive and satisfying website project.

What’s Your Web Design Process?

Understanding your designer’s design process is the first step in building a successful website. Each designer may have a unique approach to their work, so it’s important to ask about their process to ensure it aligns with your goals and expectations. A clear design process typically involves stages like research, wireframing, design mockups, development, and testing. By asking your designer about their process, you can get a sense of the project’s timeline and how various design elements will be incorporated.

Additionally, it’s crucial to discuss how involved you will be in each stage of the process. Some designers prefer a more collaborative approach, while others may handle most of the work independently. Clarifying these expectations upfront can help avoid miscommunication later on in the project.

What Is the Timeline and Milestones for a Website Project?

Time is of the essence when it comes to web development. Delays can cost money and precious opportunities, so it’s essential to establish a clear timeline with your designer. Ask your designer for an estimated project timeline, including key milestones, so you can track progress and anticipate when your website will be up and running. Make sure to discuss how any potential setbacks or unexpected issues will be handled and how they might impact the project’s timeline.

Additionally, it’s wise to inquire about the availability of your designer throughout the project. Will they be working on your project exclusively, or do they have other ongoing commitments? Being aware of your designer’s schedule can help you plan for effective communication and ensure that the project stays on track.

What Are the Costs and Payment Terms?

Clear and transparent communication regarding the project’s cost and payment terms is vital for both parties involved. The cost of a website project can vary significantly based on its complexity and the specific features you desire. Ask your designer for a detailed breakdown of the project’s costs, including any additional fees that might arise during the development process.

Discuss the payment terms with your designer as well. Do they require an upfront deposit or follow a milestone-based payment schedule? Understanding the financial aspects of the project will help you budget effectively and prevent any financial surprises along the way.

Conclusion

Before embarking on a website project, it’s crucial to lay the foundation for a successful collaboration with your designer. By asking the right questions regarding their design process, timeline, and costs, you can ensure that both parties are on the same page and that your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Effective communication at the outset of your website project will lead to a website that not only meets your expectations but also exceeds them, providing a valuable asset for your business or personal endeavors in the digital world.

How to Use Your Website to Make a Lasting Impression on Your Customers

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In today’s digital age, your website is often the first point of contact between your business and potential customers. It’s not just a virtual storefront; it’s a powerful tool for making a lasting impression on your audience. Think of your website as your brand’s online ambassador, welcoming visitors and showcasing your products or services. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key strategies to ensure your website leaves a positive and memorable impression on your customers.

User-Friendly Design

The first step in making a lasting impression is to create a website that’s easy to navigate. A cluttered or confusing layout can deter visitors and lead to high bounce rates. Here are some design tips:

  • Clean and Simple Layout: Use a clean and uncluttered design with a clear hierarchy. Avoid overwhelming visitors with too much information or distracting elements.
  • Intuitive Navigation: Make sure your menu and navigation options are intuitive. Users should easily find what they’re looking for within a few clicks.
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly. With the increasing use of smartphones, a responsive design is crucial for a positive user experience.

High-Quality Content

Content is king on the internet, and the quality of your content can significantly impact how visitors perceive your brand. Here’s how to create impactful content:

  • Compelling Copy: Write clear, concise, and persuasive copy. Highlight the value your products or services provide and address customer pain points.
  • Engaging Visuals: Incorporate high-quality images, videos, and graphics that enhance your brand’s identity and message.
  • Blog and Resources: Maintain a blog or resource section with informative articles, guides, or industry insights. This establishes your expertise and provides added value to visitors.

Consistent Branding

Your website should reflect your brand identity consistently. This includes your logo, color scheme, fonts, and tone of voice. Consistency builds trust and helps visitors recognize and remember your brand.

Social Proof

Incorporate social proof elements such as customer testimonials, reviews, and case studies. People trust the experiences of others, so showcase positive feedback to reinforce the credibility of your business.

Contact Information and Customer Support

Make it easy for visitors to get in touch with you. Provide clear contact information, including a contact form, email address, and phone number. Additionally, offer excellent customer support to address inquiries promptly and professionally.

Speed and Performance

A slow-loading website can frustrate visitors and deter them from staying. Optimize your site’s speed and performance by doing things like compressing images and, if using something like WordPress, keeping your themes and plugins to a minimum..

Security and Trust

Ensure your website is secure by using SSL encryption, displaying trust badges, and being transparent about your privacy policy and data handling practices. Security concerns can drive visitors away.

Call to Action (CTA)

Guide visitors toward specific actions you want them to take, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or contacting you. Well-placed and compelling CTAs can significantly impact conversion rates.

Conclusion

Your website is a powerful tool for making a lasting impression on your customers. A user-friendly design, high-quality content, consistent branding, social proof, accessible contact information, speed and performance, security, and strategic CTAs are key elements in creating a positive online experience.

Remember that your website is not static; it should evolve with your brand and your customers’ needs. Regularly update and optimize it to ensure it continues to make a strong and lasting impression. By following these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building a website that captivates and retains your audience, leaving a memorable mark on your customers.

Why Website Design Project Deadlines Are Important

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In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, where every click counts and first impressions matter more than ever, a seamless and visually appealing website is crucial for any business. However, beyond the creative process lies the importance of adhering to project timelines. Meeting website design project timelines is not just a matter of punctuality; it’s a strategic move that impacts the overall success of a project and, ultimately, the brand’s reputation.

Credibility and Professionalism

A website is often the first interaction a potential customer has with a brand. Imagine visiting a website that’s still under construction or displays outdated information. Delays in design projects can convey an impression of inefficiency and lack of professionalism. Meeting deadlines instills confidence in the audience, signaling that the brand is reliable and dedicated to delivering on promises.

Budget Management

Time is money, and this holds true in the realm of web design. Project delays can lead to budget overruns, as the extended development period might require additional resources or manpower. Staying on track with timelines ensures that resources are utilized efficiently, preventing unnecessary costs and helping businesses allocate their budgets more effectively.

Launching Marketing Campaigns

Website launches are often coordinated with marketing campaigns, product releases, or events. Missing a project deadline can disrupt the overall marketing strategy, causing misalignment and confusion among potential customers. On the other hand, launching a website on schedule allows brands to synchronize their marketing efforts seamlessly, maximizing the impact and reach of their campaigns.

Competitive Advantage

In the digital age, competition is fierce, and every moment counts. A well-timed website launch can give businesses a competitive advantage by capturing the attention of their target audience at the right moment. Timely launches enable brands to showcase new products, services, or initiatives ahead of competitors, gaining an edge in the market.

User Experience and Engagement

A website’s user experience (UX) is directly linked to its design and functionality. Meeting project timelines ensures that the site’s UX design is well thought out and thoroughly tested. This leads to a more intuitive, user-friendly interface that engages visitors effectively. A delayed project might result in rushed or incomplete UX design, negatively impacting user engagement and potentially driving away valuable traffic.

Meeting website design project timelines is a fundamental aspect of successful digital endeavors. It goes beyond punctuality, influencing brand credibility, budget management, marketing coordination, competitive positioning, and user experience. In a world where online presence is paramount, adhering to timelines is not just about meeting deadlines; it’s about delivering excellence, fostering trust, and making a lasting impact on the digital landscape.

 

3 Ways a Website Will Propel Your Small Business Forward

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In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. Your website serves as a virtual storefront, representing your brand and enticing visitors to explore your offerings. While do-it-yourself website builders may seem tempting, there’s a distinct advantage to enlisting the expertise of a professional website designer. In this article, we will outline three compelling reasons why hiring a website designer is a smart investment that can elevate your online presence to new heights.

Tailored Design for Optimal User Experience:

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your website. A website designer possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to create a captivating design that aligns with your brand identity and goals. They take into account your target audience, industry, and desired functionalities to craft a customized website that speaks directly to your visitors. By understanding user behavior and employing principles of user experience (UX) design, a website designer ensures that your website is intuitive, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. They know how to organize content effectively, prioritize key information, and utilize eye-catching visuals to engage visitors and guide them through your website seamlessly. With a professionally designed website, you can create a positive user experience that keeps visitors engaged, boosts conversions, and ultimately enhances your bottom line.

Technical Expertise and Cross-Device Compatibility:

Building a website involves more than just aesthetics. It requires a deep understanding of various technologies, coding languages, and industry best practices. A website designer is well-versed in these technical aspects, enabling them to create a website that is robust, secure, and performs optimally across different devices and browsers. In addition, mobile devices now account for a significant portion of internet traffic, and a professional website designer ensures that your website is fully responsive, adapting seamlessly to different screen sizes. They also optimize loading speeds, implement effective SEO strategies, and integrate analytics tools to track your website’s performance. By entrusting your website design to a professional, you can rest assured that every technical aspect is handled with expertise, enabling you to focus on your core business activities.

Customization and Scalability:

Website builders often offer pre-designed templates that lack uniqueness and fail to capture the essence of your brand. On the other hand, a website designer provides you with the opportunity to customize every aspect of your website to align with your vision and goals. They work closely with you to understand your specific requirements, incorporating your brand elements, color schemes, and imagery to create a visually cohesive and memorable online presence. A website designer also considers the long-term growth and scalability of your website. They build a solid foundation and structure that can easily accommodate future updates, expansions, and technological advancements. With a scalable website, you have the flexibility to adapt to changing market trends and incorporate new features as your business evolves, without the constraints of rigid templates.

While DIY website builders may offer convenience, they cannot match the expertise, creativity, and customization that a professional website designer brings to the table. Investing in a website designer means investing in a captivating user experience, seamless technical performance, and a unique online presence tailored to your brand. By entrusting the design process to a professional, you can save time, avoid frustration, and ultimately reap the benefits of a website that stands out from the competition. So, if you’re looking to make a lasting impact in the digital realm, hiring a website designer is an invaluable choice that will pay dividends in the long run.

website redesign

4 Reasons to Hire a Website Designer

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In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is vital for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a small business owner, or a creative professional, a well-designed website can be a powerful tool to showcase your brand and engage with your audience. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) website builders like Squarespace or Wix have made it easier for beginners to create their own websites. So, why hire a website designer? In this article, we’ll explore four key reasons why enlisting the services of a professional website designer can significantly benefit those who have never built a website before.

1. Expertise in Design and User Experience:

Website designers are skilled professionals who possess a deep understanding of design principles and user experience. They know how to create visually appealing and functional websites that not only capture attention but also provide a seamless and intuitive browsing experience. Designing a website involves much more than simply choosing color schemes and layouts; it requires thoughtful consideration of navigation, information hierarchy, and responsive design elements. A website designer can leverage their expertise to ensure that your website not only looks great but also effectively communicates your brand message and engages your visitors.

2. Time and Efficiency:

Building a website from scratch, especially without prior experience, can be a time-consuming and daunting task. By hiring a website designer, you can save valuable time and focus on other important aspects of your business or personal life. Website designers have the technical skills and experience to efficiently bring your vision to life. They are well-versed in the latest web technologies and industry trends, ensuring that your website is up to date and optimized for performance. With a professional at the helm, you can be confident that your website will be completed in a timely manner, allowing you to launch and start reaping the benefits sooner.

3. Customization and Tailored Solutions:

One of the primary advantages of hiring a website designer is the ability to create a custom website tailored to your specific needs and goals. While DIY website builders may offer templates and pre-designed elements, they often lack the flexibility and customization options necessary to make your website truly unique. A website designer can work closely with you to understand your requirements, brand identity, and target audience. They will then translate this understanding into a customized design that aligns perfectly with your vision. From custom layouts and functionalities to personalized branding elements, a website designer can create a website that sets you apart from the competition and resonates with your audience.

4. Ongoing Support and Maintenance:

A website is not a one-time project; it requires continuous support and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and security. When you hire a website designer, you gain access to their ongoing support and expertise. They can provide regular updates, security patches, and backups, ensuring that your website remains secure and functional. Additionally, as your business or personal needs evolve, a website designer can make the necessary adjustments and updates to keep your website aligned with your goals. This ongoing partnership offers peace of mind, knowing that you have a professional who is readily available to address any technical issues or implement future enhancements.

While DIY website builders may seem tempting, the advantages of hiring a website designer far outweigh the initial cost. From their design expertise and time-saving capabilities to customized solutions and ongoing support, website designers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. By entrusting your website development to a professional, you can ensure that your online presence stands out, effectively communicates your message, and drives meaningful results. So, if you’re in need of a website and have never built one before, hiring a website designer is undoubtedly the wise choice to make.

website redesign

The Difference Between a Web Designer and a Web Developer

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When you’re looking to hire someone to build a website and you are searching online or asking people for referrals, you might be directed towards a “web designer” and a “web developer.” Many people use these terms interchangeably, assuming that “web designer” and “web developer” are two different names for the same job. However, this is not the case as a web designer and a web developer play vastly different, yet essential, roles in creating a website.

What is a Web Designer?

A web designer is one of the first people you will encounter when having a website built. They are the creative engine behind the website’s look and feel. They will visualize:

  • how the website pages and infrastructure should be organized
  • what the homepage will look like
  • what the secondary and tertiary pages will look like
  • how will the brand colors be used on the site
  • where call-to-action and graphic elements should be placed
  • other design aspects of the website

Your web designer will be the one presenting you with mockups and discussing the creative vision they have for your website. Like an architect, they are essentially providing the blueprint for how the finished product will look.

What is a Web Developer?

A web developer comes in after the design has been approved. The web designer will hand off the approved design to the web developer, who will get to work creating the website. The developer will:

  • download the necessary software for the build
  • set up and utilize space on a server
  • use the design documentation and their coding knowledge to build the website
  • perform quality control to ensure that all components of the website are working properly
  • implement any feedback that comes from website reviews by the client

The web developer takes the design and makes that vision a reality, much like a construction crew would do with an architect’s blueprint.

As you can see, these are two very different roles in the website building process, but a good website professional can perform both at a high level, and that’s what you’ll get with Black Lion Websites. I excel at both the design and development phases, and will be responsible for both when you hire me to build your website. Contact me today, and let’s get started!

best image websites

5 Places For High Quality Website Photos

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Images are very important to a website. They can set a tone for the visitor, convey an idea, draw the visitor in to your content, or simply make the website more interesting to look at.

One caveat about images is that someone has to create them, and for your website, they have to be good quality. Unless you’ve got the skills to go out with an expensive Canon camera and  numerous telephoto lenses, you’re probably relying on someone else to take these high quality photos that you’re going to use on your website, and those photographers usually expect to be compensated. Photographers can expect anything from a simple caption near the image giving credit to them, to payment for use of that image. Copyright does play role here as well. Anyone who claims that you are using their image without permission can demand compensation, possibly resulting in legal action, and no one wants that.

So, what if you’re looking for great images to use on a website, but you’re working on a tight budget? There are some options! Here are my favorite places to go where I can get beautiful images to use on my website, and pay nothing.

Unsplash

Unsplash is probably my first stop when I’m looking for free stock images. The quality is great, and they have a lot of different categories to choose from. You can search using just about any keyword and hundreds of images will show up in your result. You can also create collections, where if you’re searching for a particular type of image you can create a repository where the images that you like are stored, and then you can come back later and download those images that you have in your collection. Unsplash is one of the most popular stock imagery websites.

Pixabay

Pixabay offers a lot of different media: Images, drawings, videos, and even sound effects. Along with all those offerings, they are usually a great source for any kind of imagery that you are looking for. They also have a lot of filter options, so you can really narrow down your search to a specific size and color of photo if you’re wanting to get that granular. As of September 2021 they boast 2.4 million photos in their arsenal, so there is a lot to choose from.

Stocksnap

Stocksnap is another place where you can find top quality photos. Their selection tends to be a bit limited, and on results pages they show you pictures that actually need to be purchased from Shutterstock. However, they have a lot of categories to choose from, and all the photos on the site require any payment or attribution. Simply download and use wherever, whenever.

Reshot

Reshot provides icons, illustrations, and photos, all for free. When it comes to photos, their selection seems to be pretty limited, and not that high quality. They actually have a better selection when it comes to icons and illustrations.

Pexels

Pexels is a website where you can download photos and videos. You can search a particular topic by orientation, size, or color. They also serve up related topics that you might be interested in searching. Their photos and videos are really high quality and Pexels is a good option for when you are searching for media to use on your website.

Armed with this arsenal of media websites, you should find plenty of good images and videos to use on your website that don’t cost a dime. Happy hunting!

Habitat for Humanity of Grand County homepage

Case Study: Grand County Habitat for Humanity Website Redesign

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Grand County Habitat for Humanity (GCHH) is a branch of the non-profit organization that builds affordable housing for families in need. GCHH had a website, but it had been almost 10 years since it had been built. They were looking for someone to perform a website redesign.

The website was using an old WordPress design that was behind the times. Some of the functionality that they were relying on for volunteer sign-ups was no longer working. In addition, there was some confusion amongst current members on how to properly update the website with news. The website was in desperate need of help, and they contacted Black Lion websites to help get it back on track.

To make this project this work efficiently, I used my tried-and-true 5 step website process.

  1. I met with the President of the GCHH to discuss pain points and find out what improvements they were looking for. I also communicated my own suggestions, and learned their project timeline. Using that meeting to determine a project scope, I provided a very affordable and fair cost estimate, which they agreed to.
  2. Then I got to work doing some competitive analysis. I came up with a design and some functionality improvements, and provided the Board with a mockup of several pages on the site. They swiftly approved the mockup designs.
  3. I then moved into the build phase of the site, following the blueprint that was established in the mockups. This blueprint allowed to me to quickly and accurately pull the website together. The Board was thrilled with the results and had very few changes.
  4. We were able to hit our launch date on time and on budget.
  5. Post-launch, I created videos to show the Board how to update and maintain their new website.

They now have a website that they can be proud of, is fully functional, and is one of the best websites of all the Habitat for Humanity branches in Colorado.

website redesign

5 Reasons You Should Invest in a Website Redesign

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A website redesign isn’t usually something people consider. It’s easy to put up a website and then leave it alone. It’s out there on the internet, people can access it, and that’s great. Right?

Not so fast. Over time your website can actually do more harm than good, especially if you run a business. Your website is the most valuable marketing asset you own. It speaks volumes about you, and it’s accessible 24/7 to 4.6 billion people worldwide. So it’s important to keep it looking good because over time your website can cause problems. If it’s been a while since you launched your current website, let’s explore why a website redesign can help you.

Keeping Up with Trends

Animated gifs. Visitor counters. Messages that scroll across the page. All of these trends were popular features 20 years ago, but now they’re not a recommended part of a website. The website industry changes regularly, and trends come and go. Using an outdated trend on your website can send a message to your visitors that you don’t visit your website. So why should they? A website redesign will enable you to implement new website functionality that brings your website up-to-speed.

Advances in Website Technology

Not only do trends change in the website industry, but the technology changes frequently as well. New standards in programming code, or updates in the devices that are used to view websites, can affect how your website is viewed. One example is the rise of mobile devices. In 2000, very few people were viewing websites on their phone. Now, having a website with a responsive design that adapts to the size of the screen that the visitor is using, be that screen a cellphone or a desktop monitor, is a must. A website redesign can bring your website in line with current technology recommendations.

You Are Embarrassed By Your Website

Not keeping up with website trends or technology can make you embarrassed about your website. You probably know that your website doesn’t look good compared to other websites you visit, or your business competitors. In turn, you’re reluctant to send your customers or potential clients to your site because it pales in comparison to the others. A website redesign can help you feel proud of your most visible marketing asset, and boost your confidence when interacting with potential customers.

Changes in the Company’s Offerings and Capabilities

In today’s business world, companies constantly need to change and adapt. This change often reveals itself in the form of offering new products, services, and capabilities. These new offerings need to be reflected on your website, but your current website design could get in the way of promoting these new features. Your design might lack the available space on a page, or it might lack the functionality to promote them in a interesting way. A new design can enable you to point your customers to these new features, resulting in more business.

Greater Control Over Updating Your Website

Website platforms like WordPress, Wix, and Webflow periodically update their user interface to make it easier to use. They want you to easily update your website, even if you don’t know any programming code. If you are stuck in a website platform that isn’t working for you because it’s too difficult to update, switching to another platform might help. And switching to a new platform might require a website redesign, because you can transfer a design from one platform to another. You can try to replicate it, but copying it exactly might prove to be difficult. Switching website platforms is a great opportunity to give your website a fresh new look, while enabling you to make updates on your own.

So, What Should You Do?

Websites should be updated on a regular basis, and a review of your design should happen every couple of years. Take a look and see how it can improve. Is your site underperforming in terms of visits? Is it lacking the interactive features that can help your website, and your business, stand out from the competition? A website redesign can breathe new life into your online presence, and your business. Drop me a line and let’s talk about getting your website back on the right track.

 

website design process

My Website Design Process: Step-by-Step

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An important aspect of hiring a web designer, but one which a lot of people might not think about, is the website design process. How do they go about building the site? How much do they allow the client to get involved in the process? Is their process well-intentioned and methodical, or is it chaotic and all over the place? Does it seem slow and inefficient with way too many steps and milestones, or is it streamlined and geared towards delivering a website quickly?  I  briefly describe my process on my website process page, but this article goes more in-depth on my website design process and provides some insight into how I work with my clients to build their website.

Step 1: Free Consultation

When I first get in contact with a potential client, I’ll first encourage them to fill out a questionnaire online via my website. This survey will provide me with some background on the business or organization, what the scope of the project is, and some other aspects that might help me get a “lay of the land” for the upcoming project. Then I’ll schedule a meeting where we can meet, go over the answers to the questionnaire, and dig into the details of what’s involved. I’ll use this meeting to draft a contract with a price of the project, 50% of which will be due up front, and the balance will be due upon launch. Everything in this first step happens at no cost to you, so there’s no risk or obligation to you at all.

Step 2: Design

Using the questionnaire and our meeting as a guide, I’ll design the layout and functionality of the website. I use software to create the design mockups which I’ll provide to you in a pdf format, and this mockup document serves as a blueprint for the build phase. We’ll probably go through a few iterations of mockups until we have something that you approve of. Once I get your sign off, I’ll start building the site.

Step 3: Build

In the same way a contractor uses a blueprint to build a house, I’ll use the approved mockup as a guide to build the website. To ensure that search engines and others can’t view the website as it’s being built, I’ll password-protect it. I’ll provide you with the link and the password so that you can see the progress. You will also provide the content for the website during this step.

Step 4: Launch

Once the website has been built and everything is in place, we’ll meet to go over the site together. I’ll address any changes that you would like to see made to the website. We can have numerous reviews until we get the website to a place where you’re happy with it. When you feel like the site is ready, I’ll assign the website address to the site, take off the password protection, and the site is launched!

Step 5: Support

This step is what differentiates me from my competition. At the end of the day, I want you to be happy with the website I build for you and I won’t leave you hanging.

After launch, I’ll provide 2 weeks of unlimited support for free. If there are any issues, I’m ready and available to address any changes that need to be made at no charge to you.

Following the two week support period, you can handle the website updates on your own if you’re so inclined, or we can establish a maintenance agreement where I make updates for you upon request. A lot of web designers will charge you a monthly fee, regardless of whether you ask them to make updates to the site or not, but I won’t do this. I’ll only bill you when I do work for you.

What Does This All Mean?

My web design process is a streamlined, efficient workflow that has never failed me, and it won’t fail you either. Whenever you’re ready, contact me and we’ll walk through these steps together and arrive at our destination: A website you can be proud of.