Planning Your Small Business Website from Scratch

Planning your website? It’s simpler than you think — with the right guidance, clear goals, and a few smart decisions, you can create something you're proud to share.

How to Build (or Refresh!) a Website That Reflects Your Brand and Grows Your Business

If you're a small business owner or entrepreneur trying to grow your brand online, your website matters. It’s often the first impression people get — and it should reflect who you are, what you offer, and why it matters. Whether you’re starting from scratch or reworking an outdated site, here’s a simple guide to get you moving in the right direction.

Start With a Clear Purpose

Before you build anything, get clear on what your website needs to do. Do you want to:

• Sell products?

• Book client appointments?

• Build trust and credibility?

• Grow your audience with a blog or email list?

Knowing this upfront shapes everything — from your layout to your content and calls to action. And when you're clear on your goals, it's way easier to measure what’s working.

Think About Your Audience

Ask yourself: what do your dream clients need when they land on your site? Quick answers? A reason to trust you? An easy way to book or buy?

Your website should be built with them in mind — not just what looks pretty, but what actually works for the people you want to serve.

Map Out the Essentials

No need to overcomplicate things. Start with these key pages:

• Home

• About

• Services or Products

• Contact

• Blog or Resources (if you have content to share)

From there, you can add sub-pages or extra features as needed. A simple, clean structure makes it easier for visitors to find what they’re looking for — and take action.

Choose a Platform That Works for You

Not sure where to build your site? Here's a quick breakdown:

• Wix – User-friendly, drag-and-drop, great for beginners. Lots of design freedom.

• Shopify – Built for selling online. Ideal if your business is focused on products, with powerful e-commerce tools, inventory tracking, and built-in payment options.

• WordPress – Super customizable and scalable, but more tech-heavy.

I can help you choose the best fit — and design a site that aligns with your brand, budget and your goals.

Design Without the Overwhelm

You don’t need to figure it all out on your own — that’s where I come in.

As your designer, I’ll guide you through simple, strategic choices that make your website look professional and feel like you. Here’s what we’ll focus on:

• 2–3 brand colors that reflect your personality and create visual consistency

• Clean, easy-to-read fonts that are on-brand and work well across devices

• High-quality, authentic images that show the heart of your business (bonus if they’re original!)

• Plenty of white space so your content is easy to read and your site feels clean, modern, and inviting

• A consistent layout across every page — so your site feels polished and cohesive

Not sure what your brand visuals should look like? I’ll help you define your style and create a visual identity that sets you apart.

Together, we’ll build a site that doesn’t just look good — it works hard for your business.

Create Content That Connects

You don’t need to say everything — just the right things. Great website content speaks clearly to your audience, uses language they relate to, and makes it obvious how you can help.

If writing about your business feels overwhelming, don’t worry — I’ll help you shape your message so it’s clear, confident, and aligned with your brand.

We’ll focus on:

• Telling your story in a way that builds connection and trust

• Explaining your services simply so people get what you do, fast

• Guiding visitors toward action — whether that’s contacting you, booking, or buying

The goal? To help people understand your value — and feel ready to take the next step.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait until everything is “perfect” to launch your website. Clarity comes from action — and your brand will evolve as you grow. Start with a strong foundation, then refine as you go.

Set the Stage for SEO

Even the best website won’t work if no one can find it. That’s where SEO comes in. Basics to keep in mind:

• Use keywords your audience is actually searching for

• Optimize page titles, headings, and image descriptions

• Make sure your site is mobile-friendly and fast

• Add fresh content regularly (a blog helps!)

  
  

If this feels confusing, don’t worry — I can guide you through it or handle it for you.

Working With a Web Designer (like me!)

I know how overwhelming it can feel to build or refresh your website — especially when you’re already busy running your business. I’ve been there, and that’s exactly why I do what I do.

When we work together, you’re not just handing off a to-do list. You’re gaining a creative partner who genuinely cares about your business and wants to help you bring it to life online — with clarity, confidence, and zero tech stress.

Here’s what you can expect:

• We’ll start with a conversation about your goals, your brand, and what’s really important to you

• I’ll walk you through what to prep (don’t worry — I’ll make it simple and manageable)

• I’ll help you shape your message, organize your content, and create a website that feels like you and connects with the people you want to reach

• You’ll always know what’s happening next, with a clear timeline, open communication, and support at every step

I’m here to make this feel doable — and even enjoyable. Together, we’ll build something you’re proud to share.

What to Know About Budgeting for Your Website

You don’t need a massive budget to have a professional brand and website — but it’s important to invest in the right things.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Clarity and strategy are more valuable than bells and whistles. A simple, well-designed site with clear messaging will always perform better than a flashy one that confuses your audience.

• Done-for-you support saves time (and money in the long run). DIY can seem cheaper at first, but if you’re stuck for weeks or frustrated with tech, it can cost more than you think.

• Start with what you need right now. You can always add features as you grow — your site doesn’t need to be everything all at once.

My process is built to be straightforward and affordable — focusing on what’s essential, so you can launch with confidence and build on a strong foundation.

Need Help Building or Refreshing Your Brand and Website?

I know how hard it can be to put your ideas into words — or to build something that actually feels like you. That’s why I do what I do.

I work with small business owners to turn all those scattered thoughts, half-finished drafts, and “I’m not sure where to start” moments into a clear brand, a strong message, and a website you’re proud to share.

Let’s build something that not only looks good — but supports your growth, connects with the right people, and feels like home.

Let's Build it Together!