Your Squarespace website CTA buttons

Those little clickable prompts asking visitors to do something might be the most overlooked part of your website. And yet, they're doing one of the most important jobs on the page. If visitors aren't enquiring, booking, or signing up, there's a decent chance your Squarespace call-to-action buttons are letting you down. In this blog post, we'll cover:

What a website CTA button actually is (and why it matters)

• The most common web CTA button mistakes on small business websites

• How to write button copy/words that connect and convert

• Design tips to make your buttons impossible to miss

• Squarespace-specific tips to get it right on your site

Think of it this way: your website can be beautiful, your copy can be stellar — but if your buttons don't guide visitors to take the next step, all of that good work quietly slips away. 🍃

Feeling stuck with your website? Take a look at my web design packages or Squarespace Website Help slots.

What Is a CTA Button, Anyway?

A CTA button — short for call to action — is a clickable element on your website that tells a visitor what to do next.

Think: "Book a Call", "Get in Touch", "Download the Guide", "See My Work."

It sounds simple. And it is. But the words you choose, where you place your buttons, and how they look? That's where the magic (or the mess) happens.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

Here's a stat worth sitting with:

Your button isn't just a design detail. It's a conversion tool — the bridge between a visitor mooching around your site and them actually getting in touch to work with you.

And over and over again, when I carry out a website audit for a client, CTA buttons are one of the first things I flag.

They're either:

• Buried at the bottom of the page

• Saying something vague like "Click Here" 🫠

• Blending in with the background (not in a good way)

• Or there are so many competing buttons, the visitor doesn't know where to look

Sound familiar? Right then — let's sort it.

Go here if you’re considering pro website design vs. DIY.

The Most Common CTA Button Mistakes on Small Business Websites

1. Vague button web copy

"Submit." "Click here." "Learn more." These don't tell your visitor what they're getting or why they should bother. They're a bit meh, honestly.

2. Too many CTAs fighting for attention

If every section has a different button pointing somewhere different, visitors get overwhelmed. And overwhelmed visitors? They leave.

3. Poor colour contrast

If your button blends into the background, it's practically invisible. This is also an accessibility issue — a really important one. (More on this below.)

4. No CTA above the fold

"Above the fold" means the part of the page visible before you scroll. If there's no button up there, you're missing the moment visitors are most engaged.

5. Button text written for you, not your visitor

"My Services" is written from your perspective. "See How I Can Help" is written from theirs. Small shift. Big difference.

6. Button types on Squarespace - The golden rule for all three

One page should never have three buttons of equal visual weight competing for attention. The hierarchy has to be clear:

• Primary shouts 📣 — Typically, solid-filled, bold colour. Your main CTA — the action you most want taken

• Secondary speaks 🗣️ — Typically, outlined / ghost style. A softer alternative action on the same page

• Tertiary whispers 🤫 — Often plain text with an arrow or underline. The quietest nudge — a "there if you want it" option

If everything shouts, nothing gets heard — and your visitor freezes instead of clicking anything. Which is the last thing you want.

You may want to read this blog post: Squarespace website for life coaches.

How to Write CTA Button Copy That Actually Works

This is where most people go wrong — they default to what feels easy rather than what works. Here's a simple framework:

The formula: Verb + Outcome (+ Reassurance if needed)

So instead of:

• "Contact" → try "Let's Chat About Your Website"

• "Book Now" → try "Book Your Free Strategy Call"

• "Services" → try "See How I Can Help You"

• "Download" → try "Grab Your Free SEO Checklist"

The verb gets them moving.

The outcome tells them what's in it for them.

The reassurance (like "free", "no obligation", "in 2 minutes") removes the wobble.

A few tried-and-tested examples:

• "Start Your Website Transformation"

• "Book a No-Obligation Chat"

• "Get My Free Website Audit"

• "See What's Possible"

• "Let's Build Something Lush" 🙋‍♀️

CTA Button Design Tips: Make Them Impossible to Miss

Your button copy can be brilliant, but if the button itself is hard to spot, it won't matter. Here's what to check:

Colour contrast ✅

Your button colour needs to stand out from the background — not in a clashing, headache-inducing way, but with enough contrast that it's immediately visible.

This is also about accessibility: people with visual impairment, colour blindness, or those that use a keyboard (rather than a mouse), need good contrast to navigate your site confidently.

I've written a full guide on web colour contrast here — worth a read if you're unsure.

As a rule of thumb, use a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for button text (this is the WCAG AA standard — the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, basically the gold standard for accessible web design). Try the free WEBAIM contrast checker.

You may like this blog post from Nielsen Norman Group, an ux authority on using Learn More Links, You Can Do Better.

Size and padding 📐

Buttons need to be big enough to tap on a mobile.

If someone's on their phone (and probs most of your visitors are), a tiny button can be a proper nightmare to tap. Give it breathing room — padding around the text makes it feel more clickable.

Placement 📍

Your primary CTA should appear:

• In your navigation (a sticky button works brilliantly here)

• Above the fold on your homepage

• After every major section of a service or about page

• At the end of every blog post

You don't need a button every three lines — that's overwhelming. But strategic repetition? That's a no-brainer.

Hierarchy 🗂️

If you have more than one CTA on a page, make one the primary (bolder, more prominent) and one the secondary (outlined or softer).

This guides visitors toward the action you most want them to take, without confusing them.

Squarespace CTA Button Tips 🟫

If you're on Squarespace (which, let's be honest, you probably are if you're reading this 😄), here's how to make the most of your buttons:

1. Use the Button Block intentionally

Squarespace has a dedicated button block.

When it makes sense, use a button rather than hyperlinking text — it's more clickable, more accessible, and easier to style consistently.

2. Customise button styles in the Design Panel

Go to Design > Site Styles to set your global button style, including font, border radius, etc. In addition, for each theme, tweak the colour.

Get this right once, and it applies across your whole site. Mega time-saver.

3. Add a sticky header button

In Squarespace 7.1, you can add a button directly into your header/navigation (right-hand side) so it follows visitors as they scroll.

This is one of the highest-converting spots on your entire site — don't waste it with "Home."

4. Use different button styles for primary vs. secondary vs. tertiary CTAs

Squarespace lets you apply "Primary", "Secondary" and “Tertiary” button styles to give a clear visual hierarchy.

Use a filled button for your main action, an outline button for a softer secondary option, and a minimal look for tertiary.

5. Test on mobile

Always preview your pages on mobile in Squarespace before publishing.

Buttons stack differently, and what looks fab on desktop can be a bit of a situation on a phone.

6. Link to your contact page — consistently

If your website goal is to get enquiries via your contact form (which it should be, for most service-based businesses), make sure at least one CTA on every key page links directly there. Not to a services page. To the form.

Speaking of which, I have a full guide to Squarespace forms here if you want to make sure yours is doing its job properly. 📝

Bonus: What About CTAs for Your Email List and Booking System?

Not every CTA sends people to a contact form. Sometimes you want them to:

• Book a call directly — tools like Acuity Scheduling or Cal.com make this beautifully seamless (affiliate links — I only ever recommend tools I genuinely use or rate)

• Join your email list — platforms like Kit or Flodesk make it easy to embed a sign-up form with a strong CTA

• Download a freebie — pair a great lead magnet with a button that tells them exactly what they'll get

The principle is the same across all of these: be specific, be outcome-focused, and make the next step feel easy.

FAQ: CTA Buttons for Small Business Websites

• How many CTA buttons should I have on my homepage?

  Aim for one primary CTA (your main goal — usually "Get in Touch" or "Book a Call") repeated 2–3 times across the page.

  You can have a softer secondary CTA (like "See My Work" or "Read the Blog") in between, but keep the hierarchy clear.

• What colour should my CTA button be?

  Use a colour that contrasts with your background — ideally, your brand accent colour. The most important thing is that it stands out and passes accessibility contrast checks. Run it through WebAIM's Contrast Checker to be sure.

• Does button copy really affect conversions?

  Absolutely. Research consistently shows that specific, action-led copy ("Start My Free Trial") outperforms generic copy ("Submit") by a significant margin.

  Don't underestimate the power of a few words.

• Should my CTA button say "Contact Me" or something else?

  "Contact Me" is fine, but there are more compelling options. "Let's Talk," "Book a Free Chat," or "Start Your Project" all feel warmer and more outcome-led.

  Think about what your visitor is hoping to get — and let that lead the copy.

• Can I use more than one type of CTA on a page?

  Yes! In fact, you should. Primary CTAs (your main ask) and secondary CTAs (softer next steps like downloading a guide or reading a blog post) work well together.

  Just make sure the primary is visually dominant.

• My website is on Squarespace — how do I change my button colour?

  Go to Design > Site Styles in your Squarespace editor. Scroll to "Buttons" and update your primary and secondary button styles.

  If you're not sure how, I'm here to help — a 90-minute Squarespace Help Call might be just the thing. 🙂

🌿 What Next?

Your website CTA buttons are not just little design details. They're the nudge your visitor needs to take the next step — and if they're vague, buried, or invisible, you're letting potential enquiries slip through your fingers unnecessarily.

The good news? This is one of the quickest wins on your website. You don't need a full redesign. Just:

• ✅ Write specific, outcome-focused button copy

• ✅ Check your colour contrast for accessibility

• ✅ Place buttons strategically — especially above the fold

• ✅ Keep one clear primary CTA per page

• ✅ Test everything on mobile

As Donald Miller puts it in Building a StoryBrand: "If you confuse, you lose." Your CTA is the moment of clarity — don't muddy it.

If you'd love a fresh pair of eyes on your website — including those buttons — my Pro Website Audit with Strategy is a brilliant place to start. I'll tell you exactly what's working, what isn't, and what to do about it. Pinky promise. 🤍

Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I'll be compensated at no cost to you.

Here are some of my favourite business tools, apps, services and brands that I genuinely use, have on my list to purchase or recommend to clients.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Go here for my Free Web Resource downloads.

If you're a life coach — or a midlife coach — wondering whether a Squarespace website is actually the right platform for you, the simple answer is: totally, yes! But here's the tad more important bit. A Squarespace website for life coaches only works when it's set up strategically. Not just prettily. Strategically.

In this blog post, we'll cover:

• Why life coaches need a proper website (not just a social media presence)

• What makes a coaching website genuinely different

• The essential pages your Squarespace site needs

• Squarespace features that work beautifully for coaches

• A special note for midlife coaches

• Tools to pair with your Squarespace site

• How to get proper help bringing it all together

And a gentle reminder. Because you've built something meaningful. Your website should reflect that.

You've Done the Hard Work. Your Website Should Do Its Share, Too. 💛

Let's be honest for a moment. A lot of websites for life coaches are a bit... meh.

Either they've been cobbled together at the kitchen table — fonts that are difficult to read and all over the place, a stock photo of someone in a corporate meeting or staring off into the distance, both don’t resonate — or they look lovely but don't actually say anything that makes a potential client think, "That's exactly who I need."

And over and over again, clients tell me the same thing: "I knew my website wasn't doing me justice, but I didn't know where to start."

Sound familiar? 🙋🏽‍♀️

Think of it this way. Your website is the digital version of your coaching space.

Just as you'd never welcome a client into a cluttered, confusing room, you don't want to send potential clients to a website that leaves them scratching their heads. Every element — your words, your visuals, your layout — needs to quietly say: "I understand you. And I can help."

According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF) 2023 Global Coaching Study, the coaching industry has grown by over 33% in recent years — meaning the market is both booming and increasingly competitive. And rose a further 15% since 2023. Source: ICF Global Coaching Study 2023.

With more coaches online than ever, your website needs to work genuinely hard to help your ideal clients find you, trust you, and get in touch.

Why Life Coaches Need a Proper Website (Not Just Social Media)

Social media is brilliant for visibility. But it's borrowed land. Algorithms change overnight. Accounts get hacked. Reach drops for reasons entirely outside your control.

Your website? That's yours. No one can take it away, change the rules, or bury your content under someone else's sponsored posts.

A well-designed coaching website does four things:

• Builds trust before a client has ever spoken to you

• Filters in your ideal clients — and gently filters out those who aren't the right fit

• Converts curious visitors into genuine enquiries

• Works for you 24/7 — even when you're off doing the good stuff in life 🌿

As Seth Godin puts it: For life coaches, that magic starts on your website.

What Makes a Life Coach Website Different?

Here's what sets a coaching website apart from, say, a product-based business. Connection is everything.

Your potential clients are often in a vulnerable, searching place — looking for clarity, direction, or transformation. They need to feel something when they land on your site. Not overwhelmed. Not confused.

They need to feel seen.

That means your website isn't just about showcasing what you do. It's about communicating who you are, who you help, and — most importantly — what life looks like after working with you. That transformation needs to be front and centre, not buried on page 3.

As Donald Miller writes in Building a StoryBrand (genuinely one of the best books for coaches — grab it here): "If you confuse, you lose."

For coaching websites, that confusion usually shows up as vague headlines, too many services listed at once, and no clear next step for visitors. And before you know it, your ideal client has quietly clicked away.

The Essential Pages Your Squarespace Life Coach Website Needs

Let's get into the good stuff 🎯. A proper coaching website needs these core pages — and each one has a specific job to do.

1. Homepage 🏡

Your homepage is doing the most important job of all: grabbing attention and answering "Is this for me?" in about 3 seconds flat.

The hero section — that first full-screen area someone lands on — needs:

• A clear headline that speaks directly to your ideal client's situation or desire

• A one-liner explaining who you help and how

• A strong, single call to action (usually "Book a Discovery Call" or "Work With Me")

• A professional photo of you — because coaches sell connection, and connection starts with a face

Think of it this way: your homepage isn't about you. It's about them. The moment you flip that perspective, everything changes.

➡️ Related post: Website Hero Image and Copy Tips for a Powerful First Impression

2. About Page 🩵

The about page is probably the most visited page on any coaching website. And it's often the most neglected.

Your story matters. Not every detail, but the relevant bits — what led you to this work, what you've navigated or transformed, why you show up every day to do this. People hire coaches they resonate with. So share your story with heart, always keeping your client's journey in mind.

The trick? Don't make your about page just about you. Weave in your client. Show them how your story connects to theirs, and how you are the best-fit person to help them.

➡️ Related post: Authentic Brand Storytelling for Your Website About Page

3. Work With Me / Your Services Page 🎯

This is where clarity is mega important. If a potential client lands here and can't immediately understand what to do, the chances are, they'll leave.

Your services page needs to:

• Clearly name your offering(s) — no jargon, no vague titles

• Speak to the transformation, not just the features (what does life look like after working with you?)

• Include pricing or a clear, warm invitation to get in touch

• End with a single, simple CTA, aka call to action, eg, Let’s Work Together

One service, clearly explained, will always outperform five services vaguely listed. Always.

4. Blog or Resources Section 📝

Coaches who blog — even just 1x or 2x per month — build significantly more Google visibility and trust than those who don't.

A blog shows your thinking, your approach, your expertise. It feeds your SEO (which means more of your ideal clients can find you in the first place). And it gives visitors a taste of what it might feel like to work with you, which is mega for building that all-important trust before they've ever sent you a message.

➡️ Related post: Why Writing Blog Posts Is Always Superior to Relying on Social Media

5. Contact Page 💌

Often overlooked. Super important.

Your contact page shouldn't just be a form dumped on a white background. It needs a warm introduction, some clarity on what happens next after someone gets in touch, and a form that feels genuinely inviting — not clinical.

Squarespace Forms make this beautifully simple, and you can customise them to gather just the right information before a discovery call. No faff, no code.

➡️ Related post: The Complete Guide to Squarespace Forms

➡️ Related post: How Do You Write & Design an Effective Contact Us Page?

Why Squarespace Works So Beautifully for Life Coaches

Right then — why Squarespace specifically? Let me walk you through it. 🌿

It looks stunning without needing a degree in web design.

Squarespace templates are clean, modern, and mobile-responsive from the start. For coaches, where aesthetic plays directly into the feeling of trust and calm your brand needs to convey, this is proper gold.

It's low-maintenance.

Unlike WordPress — which needs constant plugin updates and can become a bit of a nightmare — Squarespace handles security, hosting, and updates for you. That means you can focus on your clients, not on keeping your website from falling apart.

It has everything you need, in one place:

• Built-in blogging (great for SEO and thought leadership)

• Squarespace Scheduling — for booking discovery calls with ease

• Member Areas — for group programmes or digital resources

• Email Campaigns — if you want an all-in-one newsletter tool

• Forms — for contact pages, discovery call requests, waitlists

And it scales with you. Starting with one core programme? Perfect. Ready to add an online course, a group coaching offer, or a digital download further down the line? Squarespace handles that too.

💡 If we work together, you'll get 10% off your first annual plan.

A Scenario That Might Sound Familiar... 😊

Meet Sarah. Not her real name, for privacy.

Sarah is a midlife coach. Three years in business. Brilliant at her work. Her clients had genuine, life-changing transformations. But her website? It was cobbled together in 2021. The fonts were a bit all over the place. Her homepage still said "helping women find balance" — which, bless her, could mean almost anything.

Potential clients landed on her site. They had a little mooch around. And then... they left. Not because Sarah wasn't the right coach for them. But because her website didn't communicate that clearly enough. They couldn't find their way to "yes."

After a proper website redesign — clear brand identity, focused messaging, strategic page structure, and a beautifully designed Squarespace build — Sarah's enquiries grew. Not because she'd suddenly become a better coach. But because her website finally reflected how good she already was.

That's the transformation a great coaching website delivers.

A Special Note for Midlife Coaches 🌸

If you specifically work with clients in midlife — career transitions, identity shifts, empty nest, perimenopause and menopause, or finding purpose and meaning in the second half of life — your website needs to speak directly to that experience.

Your ideal client is likely in their 40s or 50s. She (or he) is accomplished, intelligent, and not remotely interested in flashy, trend-chasing design. They want warmth, clarity, and to feel like you genuinely get it.

That means:

• Photography that reflects real midlife life — not stock images of 25-year-olds doing yoga on a mountain

• Language that meets clients where they are, not where they "should" be

• Calm, uncluttered design — nothing that feels overwhelming or chaotic

• Trust signals throughout — testimonials, credentials, your story, your values

Your brand colours, your fonts, your tone of voice — all of it needs to feel grounded and deeply trustworthy. That's exactly the kind of brand strategy work I do alongside every website build.

➡️ Related post: Transform Your Business by Developing a Brand Identity

The Squarespace Life Coach Website Checklist ✅

Before you go live — or before you revisit your current site — run through this:

• Does your homepage hero section immediately answer "who is this for?"

• Is there a clear, single call to action on every page?

• Does your about page tell a story your ideal client genuinely connects with?

• Are your services described in terms of transformation, not just features?

• Is your contact page warm and inviting, not just a form on a white background?

• Are your images professional, authentic, and representative?

• Is your site fully mobile-friendly? (Test it on your phone right now 👀)

• Have you connected to Google Search Console?

• Do you have a newsletter sign-up somewhere prominent?

• Have you completed your basic Squarespace SEO setup?

Tools to Pair With Your Squarespace Coaching Website

A fab Squarespace website is your foundation. A few smart business tools alongside it can make your whole coaching business run more smoothly:

• Acuity Scheduling or Cal.com — simple, professional booking for discovery calls and sessions, integrating beautifully with Squarespace

• Kit (formerly ConvertKit) or Flodesk — for building and nurturing your email list. Non-negotiable for coaches 💛

• Bloom.io — an all-in-one CRM and business management platform, brilliant for managing client relationships and onboarding. If you're not using something like this yet, you're making life a tad harder than it needs to be. (50% off for the first 12 months — genuinely worth it)

• Thinkific — if you're thinking about adding an online course to your coaching offer (which many coaches eventually do, and brilliantly so)

• SEOSpace — the most jargon-free SEO tool for Squarespace on the market. No code required, and genuinely one of my most-recommended tools for coaches who want to be found on Google

How I Can Help You 🤍

If any of this resonates and you're sitting there thinking, "My website is long overdue for a proper look at..." — that's exactly what I'm here for.

I work with established coaches (and other service-based small business owners) who know their stuff and are brilliant at what they do — but whose website isn't quite keeping up with the business they've built.

Here's how we could work together:

Pro Website Audit with Strategy — Not sure what's working and what isn't? This is a brilliant starting point. I'll go through your existing site with a fine-tooth comb and give you a clear, honest, actionable strategy. No fluff.

Squarespace Web Design Package — A full, bespoke website design and build, from brand strategy through to launch. We'll map it all out together.

Squarespace 90-Minute Help Call — Got something specific you're stuck on? Let's sort it out in one focused, productive session.

Squarespace Website Maintenance Day — For coaches who want a full day of focused updates, tweaks, and improvements, without the faff of project management.

➡️ Related post: Professional Website Design vs DIY: When Coaches Need Help

🎯 What Next?

Your work as a life coach has the power to genuinely transform lives. But if your website isn't clearly communicating that — if it's a tad wobbly, cobbled together, or just not reflective of how brilliant you truly are — you're walking past earnings that are right there for the taking.

Your website should feel like the best version of you — clear, warm, trustworthy, and deeply aligned with the clients you most want to serve.

You don't need something flashy. You need something clear.

And I'd love to help you get there. 👇

Get in touch via my contact form — let's have a proper chat about what your coaching website needs.

Or, not quite ready? Grab your free website resources here — including the SEO checklist, brand magic guide, and 5-step web design checklist. Pinky promise they're useful 🩵

❓ FAQs: Squarespace Websites for Life Coaches

• Is Squarespace good for life coaches?

  Yes — Squarespace is one of the best platforms for life coaches. It's visually elegant, low-maintenance, and comes with built-in features like scheduling, blogging, and member areas that are perfect for coaching businesses of all sizes.

• How much does Squarespace website hosting cost for a life coach in the UK?

  Squarespace plans start from around £12/month (Basic) up to £29/month (Plus) when billed annually. You’ll get 10% off your first year if we work together.

• What pages does a life coach website need?

  At a minimum: Homepage, About, Work With Me (Services), and Contact. Ideally, also: a Blog, a Resources or Freebies section, and testimonials woven naturally throughout.

• Can I add a booking system to my Squarespace coaching website?

  Absolutely. Squarespace has its own built-in scheduling tool (Squarespace Scheduling, formerly Acuity), or you can integrate Cal.com (or others) directly. Both work beautifully and make booking discovery calls a smooth, professional experience.

• Do I need a blog on my life coaching website?

  Strongly recommended, yes. A blog helps to build your Google rankings, establishes your expertise, and gives potential clients a real sense of how you think and who you are. Even 1-2 posts a month makes a meaningful difference over time.

• What makes a midlife coach website different from a general coaching website?

  Your audience is savvy, accomplished, and not looking for trends. They want warmth, clarity, and to feel seen. That means grounded visuals, language that meets them where they are, calm design, and strong trust signals — all things I consider in every brand strategy and website build I do for coaches.

• Should I show my prices on my coaching website?

  This is a personal decision, but transparency around pricing builds trust and pre-qualifies your enquiries — meaning the people who get in touch are already aligned with your investment level.

• What's the difference between DIY'ing and hiring a website designer?

  A DIY website often just gives you the bones. A strategic web designer gives you the strategy — the messaging, the page structure, the visual brand, and the conversion flow that actually turns visitors into clients. See this post for a proper breakdown: Professional Website Design vs DIY: When Coaches Need Help

Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I'll be compensated at no cost to you.

Here are some of my favourite business tools, apps, services and brands that I genuinely use, have on my list to purchase or recommend to clients.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Go here for my Free Web Resource downloads.

Picture this: A potential client is scrolling through LinkedIn or Instagram late at night, double-tapping images of beautifully styled rooms. They've just moved into their new home, and it's crying out for help. They land on your page, love what they see, tap your link… and immediately close the tab. Why?

Because your website doesn't match the calibre of your work, it's cobbled together, painfully slow to load, and navigating your portfolio feels like wandering through IKEA on a Saturday afternoon (we’ve all been there)—frustrating and a tad overwhelming.

Think of it this way: Your interior design portfolio deserves a website that's as stunning as the spaces you create.

That's where Squarespace website design for interior designers becomes absolutely crucial.

When 48% of people cite website design as the number one factor in determining business credibility, you're quite literally letting potential earnings slip through your fingers if your site doesn't do your work justice. Source: Linearity Web Design Statistics, 2023

In this blog post, we'll cover:

• Why interior designers need Squarespace (and why generic templates won't cut it)

• Essential features every interior design Squarespace website must have

• Step-by-step process for turning your portfolio into a lead-generating machine

• Examples of what works (and what doesn't)

Let's transform your digital presence from "meh" to "bloody stunning," shall we? 🎨

You can find my professional website design service details right here:

👉 Visit my Web Design Packages page

Why Interior Designers Can't Afford to Have a Subpar Website Anymore

Think of it this way: You wouldn't show a client a mood board created with a crayon and construction paper, would you? Yet so many talented interior designers are doing the digital equivalent with DIY websites that look like they were built in 2008.

The data tells a proper story here. According to recent industry research, 94% of initial impressions are design-related, and 88% of consumers (Both data points, source: Linearity Web Design Statistics, 2023) won't return to a website after a bad experience. For an interior designer, that's not just a lost visitor—it's a lost project worth thousands (or tens of thousands) of pounds.

The Interior Design Website Challenge

Interior designers face a unique situation when it comes to websites. You need to:

• Showcase image-heavy portfolios without sacrificing site speed

• Communicate your aesthetic instantly whilst maintaining professional credibility

• Tell the story behind each project (not just show pretty pictures)

• Make it easy for high-end clients to imagine working with you

• Update your portfolio regularly without needing to call a developer every blooming time

This is precisely why Squarespace website design for interior designers has become the go-to solution for established design professionals who want control, beauty, and functionality.

What Makes Squarespace the Interior Designer's Secret Weapon?

1. It's Built for Visual Storytelling

Squarespace is designed with creatives in mind.

Unlike WordPress (which started as a blogging platform and feels like it) or Wix (which can look a bit DIY no matter how hard you try), Squarespace can give you that polished, magazine-quality aesthetic.

Bonus: You might like this blog post for recognising when you need a brand identity refresh.

2. Mobile-First Design That Actually Works

Well over 50% of your potential clients are browsing on their phones whilst standing in the coffee queue, during their lunch break, or at home.

Squarespace has a separate mobile editor so it can be designed just right. Your stunning before-and-after photos look just as lush on a smartphone as they do on a 27-inch iMac.

3. No Coding Required (But Custom Code Available if You Want It)

You can create a professional interior design website without knowing a lick of code.

But if you want to add custom functionality down the line? Squarespace allows that too. The best of both worlds.

4. Built-In SEO and Analytics

Squarespace comes with proper SEO features baked in:

• Automatic sitemap generation

• SSL security (Google loves this)

• Easy to create meta descriptions and alt text

• Google Analytics integration

This means your stunning website actually gets found by people searching "interior designer [your city]" or "luxury home designer near me."

Here’s the Squarespace SEO Guide.

And, if you’re needing a bit more help, my fave easy-to-use, jargon-free, DIY-friendly SEO tool for Squarespace is called SEOSpace*. I use this and recommend it for clients.

Bonus: Read my post on Squarespace SEO and get the free checklist.

Essential Features Every Interior Design Squarespace Website Needs

Right then, let's talk specifics. If you're investing in Squarespace website design for interior designers, these features are non-negotiable:

1. A Portfolio That Actually Sells

Your portfolio isn't just a digital filing cabinet. It's your primary sales tool. Here's what it needs:

Must-haves:

• Full-width image galleries that do your photography justice

• Individual project pages (not just a photo dump)

• Before-and-after comparisons

• Project details: location, scope, budget range, timeline

• Your role in the project (especially if you collaborated with architects or builders)

• Client testimonials specific to that project

Pro tip: Organise projects by room type, OR style OR budget level—whichever makes the most sense for attracting your ideal client. If you want luxury residential projects, don't bury them beneath your commercial work or budget makeovers.

2. Homepage That Hooks Visitors in 3 Seconds

You have roughly 3 seconds before someone decides whether to stay or bounce.

Your homepage needs:

• A hero image that stops the scroll (your absolute best work, properly lit, professionally photographed)

• A clear headline that says what you do and for whom (e.g., "Luxury Residential Interior Design for Modern Families in Leeds")

• A compelling subheadline that speaks to transformation ("From Builder-Grade Bland to Magazine-Worthy Beautiful")

• One clear call-to-action (e.g., "Book a Discovery Call," "View Our Portfolio," "Download Our Project Guide")

3. An About Page That Builds Trust

Potential clients aren't just hiring your aesthetic—they're hiring you!

Your about page should:

• Share your design philosophy and approach

• Include a professional photo (or several showing you in your element)

• Mention relevant credentials, training, or awards

• Tell your story without writing a blooming autobiography

• End with a call-to-action

Here’s my blog post on how authentic storytelling can transform your about page.

4. Service Pages That Educate and Convert

Don't make potential clients play detective to understand what you offer.

Create separate pages for:

• Full-service interior design

• Room makeovers

• Consultations

• Trade services (if you offer them)

Each page should include:

• What's included in the service

• The process (people love knowing what to expect)

• Typical investment range

• Who it's perfect for

• FAQs

• A clear next step

5. Blog or Journal (For SEO and Authority)

A blog section helps you:

• Rank for keywords beyond "interior designer [your city]"

• Showcase your expertise

• Build trust with potential clients

• Stay top-of-mind with past clients

Content ideas:

• Behind-the-scenes of recent projects

• "How to choose the right…" guides (paint colours, furniture, lighting)

• Seasonal trends you're loving

• Common design mistakes and how to avoid them

• "Designer's picks" or product roundups

6. Contact Page That Makes It Easy

Don't make people search all around your site to hire you.

Your contact page needs:

• A simple contact form (name, email, phone, project type, brief message)

• Your location (even if you travel, clients want to know you're local-ish)

• Social media links

• Your email and phone (if you're comfortable sharing)

• Clear expectations: "We respond within 24 hours on weekdays"

Blog post showing how to write and design an effective contact page.

Bonus feature: Add a scheduling link (like Acuity or Calendly; both integrate beautifully with Squarespace) so high-intent clients can book a discovery call immediately.

The Professional Process: Creating Your Squarespace Website That Converts

Whether you're working with a web designer or going the DIY route, understanding the strategy behind a high-converting interior design website is crucial. Here's the professional process—and why each step matters.

(Spoiler: If you get to step 3 and think "wow, this is more complex than I thought," that's exactly when it’s time to get in touch with a professional Squarespace web designer. No shame in that. It's literally what I’m here for. 🩵)

Step 1: Define Your Ideal Client (Before You Touch Any Tech)

Seriously. Don't miss this out. Your website should speak to one specific person, not "anyone who needs interior design."

Ask yourself:

• Who is my dream client? (Demographics: age, location, income level, lifestyle)

• What's their biggest challenge or desire when it comes to their space?

• What objections might they have about hiring a designer?

• What transformation are they ultimately buying?

Example: "My ideal client is a 40-something woman in Harrogate with a successful career, two kids, and a beautiful Victorian home that feels chaotic and mismatched. She wants a home that reflects her success and feels calm, not cluttered. Her objection? She worries hiring a designer means her home will look 'done' rather than personal."

Now write your website for her.

Step 2: Get the Technical Foundation Right

Here's where most interior designers get stuck.

You might think you can pick a pretty Squarespace template and slot your images in, but that's like thinking you can design a room by ordering furniture from a catalogue without considering the architecture, flow, or how your clients actually live in the space.

As a professional Squarespace designer, I will:

• Create a structure that best supports your portfolio size and style

• Customise it extensively so it doesn't look like everyone else's site

• Optimise image sizes for fast loading without sacrificing quality

• Set up proper navigation that guides visitors toward booking

• Build mobile responsiveness that actually works (not just "technically" responsive)

• Create a cohesive visual brand across every page

The difference between a DIY Squarespace site and a professionally designed one? About the same as the difference between someone following a Pinterest board and hiring you to design their home.

Step 3: Organise Your Portfolio Like a Curator, Not an Archivist

Quality over quantity. Always.

Portfolio organisation options:

1. By Project Type: Residential / Commercial / Renovations

2. By Style: Modern / Traditional / Transitional / Coastal

3. By Room: Kitchens / Living Spaces / Bedrooms / Whole Home

4. By Budget: Luxury / Mid-Range / E-Design

Choose the filter that helps your ideal client find themselves in your work.

For each project, include:

• 8-15 high-quality images (not 47)

• Project name and location

• Brief project description (the challenge, your approach, the outcome)

• Specific services provided

• Timeline and approximate budget range (optional but builds trust)

• Client testimonial, if available

Step 4: Write Copy That Converts (Not Just Describes)

Your website copy, aka the words for your site, should focus on the transformation, not just the transaction.

Instead of: "We offer full-service interior design, including space planning, material selection, and project management."

Try: "Imagine walking into your home and finally feeling that exhale—the one where everything just works. Where your beautiful antique dresser doesn't clash with your modern sofa. Where your kitchen is functional and photo-worthy, that's what we create."

Writing framework:

1. Hook (identify the problem or desire)

2. Agitate (why does this matter? What's the cost of not addressing it?)

3. Solution (how you solve it)

4. Proof (testimonials, portfolio examples, credentials)

5. Call-to-action (what should they do next?)

Pro tip: Copywriting is a proper skill. If writing isn't your forte (and why should it be? You're an interior designer, not a copywriter), this is where I can help you, as someone who understands that brand messaging makes a massive difference. I don't just make things look pretty—I know how to write the words for your website that are more likely to convert.

Step 5: Optimise for SEO From Day One

Don't treat SEO as an afterthought. Build it in from the start.

On every page:

• Include your primary keywords naturally in the page title, first paragraph, and at least one heading

• Write descriptive image alt text (good for SEO and accessibility): "Modern open-plan kitchen design Leeds", not "IMG_4739"

• Add a meta description for every page

• Use header tags properly (H1 for page title, H2 for main sections, H3 for subsections)

• Include internal links to other relevant pages on your site

Local SEO musts:

• Mention your location, particularly on your homepage

• Create location-specific service pages if you serve multiple areas

• Add your business to Google Business Profile

• Include your address and phone number in the footer

Tools that help:

• SEOSpace* (the Squarespace-specific SEO plugin—absolute game-changer - I use this and recommend it to clients)

• Google Search Console (free and essential)

• Google Analytics (free; track what's working)

Real talk: SEO is technical, ever-changing, and honestly a bit of a pain if it's not your thing. As a professional Squarespace designer, I build SEO foundations into every site from day one—proper structure, optimised images, clean code, strategic keywords. It's the difference between hoping Google finds you eventually and actively climbing the rankings from launch day.

Step 6: Add Trust Signals Throughout

High-end clients need reassurance before reaching out. Build trust with:

Testimonials: Not just "Jane was great!"—get specific. "Within three months of completing our project with Sarah, we had the kitchen featured in House & Garden. Her attention to detail and understanding of how we actually live made all the difference."

Press and features: Been featured in design publications? Mentioned in a local newspaper? Put it front and centre.

Certifications and affiliations: BIID, SBID, or other relevant design organisations

Insurance and credentials: Mention professional indemnity insurance if you have it

Process transparency: Show clients exactly what working with you looks like

Step 7: The Professional Testing Process

Before any website launches, there's a crucial testing phase that most DIY sites skip entirely. As a professional designer, I will:

Test across devices:

• Desktop (Mac and PC)

• Mobile (iPhone and Android)

• Different browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge)

Key questions being tested:

• Is it immediately clear what you do and who you serve?

• Can they easily view your portfolio?

• Is it obvious how to contact you?

• Does the site load quickly?

• Are there any confusing bits or broken elements?

This is the difference between a site that looks nice and a site that converts. You're not just testing that buttons work—you're testing the entire experience that guides someone towards booking you.

Step 8: Launch and Drive Traffic

Your beautiful new website won't generate leads if no one sees it. Drive traffic through:

Immediate actions:

• Update your social media bio links

• Email your mailing list

• Share a "website reveal" post on Instagram and Facebook

• Update your email signature

• List your business on design directories

Ongoing tactics

• Regular blog posts (2-4 per month)

• Instagram posts linking to specific portfolio projects

• Pinterest pins (interior design is one of Pinterest's top categories)

• Local SEO optimisation

• Networking and partnership mentions

What Works in Interior Design Squarespace Websites

Let's look at what successful interior designers are doing right (and what to avoid):

What Works: Clean, Confident, Client-Focused

Example approach 1: The Luxury Minimalist

• Lots of white space

• Large, full-bleed imagery

• Muted, sophisticated colour palette

• Copy that's elegant but not stuffy

• Clear service tiers

• Why it works: Appeals to high-end clients who appreciate restraint and sophistication

Example approach 2: The Warm Storyteller

• Personal about section with behind-the-scenes photos

• Project pages that read like mini case studies

• Approachable, friendly copy

• Clear process timeline

• Why it works: Builds trust and connection, perfect for residential clients who want to feel comfortable

Example approach 3: The Editorial Expert

• Magazine-style layout

• Featured in prestigious publications, prominently displayed

• Award-winning projects highlighted

• Polished, professional tone

• Why it works: Establishes immediate authority and credibility

What Doesn't Work: The Common Pitfalls

❌ Too many fonts, colours, and competing elements → Makes you look unprofessional

❌ Portfolio photos straight from the phone → Invest in proper photography or don't show the project

❌ Vague service descriptions → "We do design stuff" isn't helpful

❌ No clear call-to-action → Don't make people guess what to do next

❌ Slow loading times → Compress those gorgeous images!

❌ No mobile optimisation → Half your traffic will bounce

❌ Generic stock photos → Clients want to see your actual work

DIY vs Professional Squarespace Design: What's the Real Difference?

Right then, let's address the elephant in the room. You're probably thinking: "Can't I just buy a Squarespace subscription and do this myself?"

Technically? Yes. Practically? That's like asking if you can technically design your own home.

The DIY Reality Check

What seems simple:

• Pick a template

• Upload photos

• Write some copy

• Launch

What actually happens:

• Spend 3 weeks researching templates

• Upload 47 photos only to realise they're too large and the site loads like treacle

• Write copy that sounds like everyone else's website

• Struggle with navigation structure

• Get frustrated with mobile layout issues

• Launch something that's "fine" but doesn't convert

• Feel vaguely embarrassed every time you share the link

• Go down a rabbit hole to understand the technicalities of SEO

Your time investment: 40-60 hours minimum (and that's if you're tech-savvy)

The Professional Design Reality

What you get:

• Strategic portfolio structure based on your ideal client

• Copy that speaks to transformation, not just transactions

• Properly optimised images that load quickly

• Mobile experience that actually works

• SEO foundation from day one

• Brand consistency across every page

• A website you're genuinely proud to share

Your time investment: A few hours for discovery calls, content gathering, and feedback

The thing is… Your time is billable. Every hour you spend wrestling with Squarespace is an hour you're not spending on client work, business development, or—revolutionary thought—having a life outside your business.

But The Benefits Go Beyond Just New Projects:

Time Freedom: No more midnight website faffing sessions. Your evenings are yours again.

Professional Credibility: A polished website justifies premium pricing and attracts premium clients.

Mental Space: One less thing to worry about means more headspace for actual design work.

Scalability: A proper website structure that grows with your business instead of needing a complete rebuild every two years.

Lead Quality: When your website clearly communicates who you serve and how you work, you get better-fit enquiries from the start.

The Hidden Cost of Waiting

Every month you operate with a subpar website, you're:

• Losing potential clients to competitors with better sites

• Undercharging because your presentation doesn't support premium pricing

• Spending time answering questions that should be answered on your website

• Missing out on organic Google traffic because your SEO is rubbish

How much is that costing you?

Squarespace vs Other Platforms: Why Interior Designers Choose Squarespace

You might be wondering: Why not WordPress? Wix? Shopify? Let's break it down:

Squarespace vs WordPress

WordPress Pros: The dreaded plugins, more customisation options, more complex functionality

WordPress Cons: Steeper learning curve, requires more maintenance, security vulnerabilities, and plugin conflicts are a nightmare (I have direct experience of this)

Here’s my blog post comparing Squarespace vs Wix vs WordPress.

The Verdict: Choose WordPress if you need very specific and complex functionality, with lots of coding. Choose Squarespace if you want beautiful portfolios without the tech headaches.

Squarespace vs Wix

Wix Pros: Slightly cheaper, lots of templates

Wix Cons: Can look DIY, SEO isn't as robust, and less elegant for portfolio sites

The Verdict: Squarespace feels more professional and polished—essential when you're selling luxury design services.

Squarespace vs Showit

Showit Pros: Good design flexibility

Showit Cons: More expensive, steeper learning curve, WordPress blog required for SEO

The Verdict: Showit is brilliant for brand photographers wanting total design control. Squarespace hits the sweet spot of beautiful, functional, and manageable for most interior designers.

Common Squarespace Questions from Interior Designers

Q: Can I update my Squarespace site myself after it's professionally designed, or will I need a designer forever?

A: In short, yes! I want you to have a site you can manage yourself for day-to-day updates. After your site is professionally set up with the right structure, you can absolutely add new projects, update copy, swap images, and make tweaks yourself. Think of it like your home: you hire an interior designer to get the bones and layout right, but you can still rearrange the cushions and swap out seasonal accessories. For bigger changes (new pages, style refresh, technical issues), you may want designer support—and I offer Squarespace Help Sessions or VIP web maintenance days (or half days), for exactly that.

Q: How long does it take to build a professional Squarespace site?

A: Full Custom Design: 4-8 weeks typically, including strategy, design, revisions, and launch support

Pro tip: The timeline depends largely on how quickly you can provide content (photos, branding, your words for the site, or I can help with this, and testimonials). The actual design work? That's the quick bit. It's the foundational strategy and content gathering that usually adds time. I’ll give you a clear estimate upfront so you know exactly what to expect.

Q: Will my Squarespace site show up in Google?

A: Yes! Squarespace has solid SEO features built in. But showing up in Google requires more than just having a website—you need good content, proper optimisation, and some patience. SEO is a marathon, not a sprint.

Q: Can I sell design products or e-books on Squarespace?

A: Absolutely. Squarespace has built-in e-commerce functionality. Perfect for selling design guides, consultation packages, or even curated homeware.

Q: What about GDPR and privacy compliance?

A: Squarespace has GDPR-compliant cookie banners. I personally use Termageddon* and recommend it for legal page policy generators.

Q: Can I have a client portal or password-protected pages?

A: Yes! Squarespace allows password-protected pages, perfect for client galleries, a private blog, or mood board sharing.

Takeaway: Your Website Should Work as Hard as You Do

Right then, let's wrap this up with the good stuff:

Your interior design portfolio is stunning. Your taste is impeccable. Your project management skills are on point. But if your website doesn't communicate all of that within 3 seconds of someone landing on it, you're missing out on opportunities—and quite frankly, leaving money right there for the taking.

Squarespace website design for interior designers isn't just about having a pretty website (though that's certainly part of it). It's about creating a lead-generating machine that:

• Shows your work in the best possible light

• Builds trust with potential clients

• Makes it easy for people to hire you

• Works for you 24/7, even when you're not

The thing is… You don't have to figure this out alone.

Your Next Steps:

If you're ready to create a Squarespace website that turns your portfolio into a proper client magnet:

You have three options:

Option 1: The DIY Route

• Time investment: 40-60+ hours

• Cost: Your Squarespace subscription + your sanity

• Risk: Ending up with something "fine" that doesn't convert

• Best for: Designers just starting with very limited budgets

Option 2: The Guided Approach

• Start with my Pro Website Audit with Strategy (£650)

• Get a professional assessment of what's working (and what's not)

• Receive a strategic action plan

• Decide whether to implement yourself or bring me in to execute

• Best for: Designers who want clarity before investing

Option 3: The Professional Route

• Full Custom Squarespace Design

• I handle everything from strategy to launch

• Your time investment: A few hours for discovery and feedback

• You get: A website you're genuinely proud to share

• Best for: Established designers who value their time and want it done properly

Ready to chat about what your interior design business actually needs?

Book a discovery call and let's have a relaxed chat about creating a Squarespace website that's as stunning as your interiors—without you spending the next six weeks glued to your laptop at midnight.

Remember: A professional website isn't a luxury—it's the foundation of a scalable, sustainable interior design business. And you absolutely deserve a digital presence that matches the calibre of your work. ✨

Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I'll be compensated at no cost to you.

Here are some of my favourite business tools, apps, services and brands that I genuinely use, have on my list to purchase or recommend to clients.

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Go here for my Free Web Resource downloads.

Why Web Colour Contrast Accessibility Matters (And How to Get It Right)

Your Guide to Creating Accessible Squarespace Websites That Everyone Can Read.

Picture this: you've poured your heart into creating a gorgeous website. The design is stunning, your brand colours pop brilliantly on screen, and you're absolutely chuffed with how it looks. But then someone tells you they can't actually read half of your content. Woopsie.

This is the reality for millions of people when websites don't have proper colour contrast. And it's not just affecting folks with visual impairments—it impacts everyone trying to read your site in bright sunlight, on older screens, or simply after a long day when their eyes are tired.

According to WebAIM's 2024 analysis, colour contrast issues affect a staggering 81% of all homepages on websites, making it the number one accessibility violation on the web. That means if your website has contrast problems, you're in the majority—but that's not somewhere you want to be.

In this post, we’ll cover:

• What colour contrast actually is and why it's bloody important

• WCAG guidelines explained in plain English (no jargon, promise)

• How to check your Squarespace website's contrast ratios

• Practical tips that go beyond the basics (things most people overlook)

• Step-by-step instructions for fixing contrast issues in Squarespace

• Real examples and tools you can use right now
  

👉 Need help? Visit my Work With Me page

What Is Colour Contrast? (And Why Should You Care?)

Colour contrast is simply the difference in brightness between your text and its background.

Think of it like this:
If you were to take a black-and-white photo of your website, would you still be able to read everything clearly? That's essentially what we're talking about.

This brightness difference is measured as a contrast ratio—a number that ranges from 1:1 (no contrast at all, like white text on a white background) to 21:1 (maximum contrast, like black text on white).

Who Actually Benefits from Good Contrast?

The short answer? Everyone.

• People with low vision or moderate visual impairments

• Peeps with colour blindness (affecting roughly 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women)

• Anyone over 40 experiencing natural age-related vision changes

• People viewing your site on their phone in bright sunlight

• Users with older or cheaper screens that don't display colours as vibrantly

• Literally anyone who's tired, stressed, or dealing with eye strain

According to WCAG, approx 15% of the US population is currently 65 or older, and that number is growing. As we age, contrast sensitivity naturally decreases. The 4.5:1 ratio recommended by WCAG is designed to compensate for vision loss equivalent to roughly 20/40, which many of us experience as we get older.

Understanding WCAG Guidelines (Without the Headache)

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the international standards for web accessibility. They sound intimidating, but the colour contrast requirements are actually quite straightforward once you break them down.

The Magic Numbers You Need to Know

For WCAG Level AA (the standard most organisations aim for):

• Normal text: Minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1

• Large text: Minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 (large text is 18pt/24px or 14pt/19px bold)

• UI components and graphics: Minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 (buttons, form borders, icons)

For WCAG Level AAA (enhanced compliance):

• Normal text: Minimum contrast ratio of 7:1

• Large text: Minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1

Important: You cannot round up to meet these requirements. A contrast ratio of 4.47:1 does not pass the 4.5:1 requirement, even though it's close. One commonly used shade of grey (#777777) has a ratio of 4.47:1 on white, which means it technically fails WCAG AA standards.

What About Brand Colours?

Here's something that surprises many people: there is no exception for brand colours. Whilst logos and brand names have some flexibility, your general website content must meet contrast requirements regardless of your brand guidelines. This can be a tad challenging to navigate, but it's not negotiable—and honestly, it's an opportunity to refine your colour palette to work better for everyone.

You might find this blog post helpful: Transforming your business by developing a brand identity.

How to Check Your Web Colour Contrast

Right then, let's get practical. Here are the best tools for checking your Squarespace website's colour contrast:

Essential Contrast Checking Tools

1. WebAIM Contrast Checker

This is the gold standard and absolutely free. You can enter colour values manually or use the eyedropper tool to pick colours directly from your screen. It instantly tells you whether your colour combination passes WCAG AA and AAA standards for both normal and large text.

Bonus: it even suggests similar colours that would pass if yours don't.

2. Coolors Contrast Checker*

If you click through and make a purchase, I'll be compensated at no cost to you.

Brilliant for when you're in the design phase. This tool not only checks contrast but also helps you visualise how your colours work together. It's particularly useful for building entire accessible colour palettes.

3. Chrome DevTools (Built-in!)

Right-click any element on your website, select 'Inspect', then look at the Styles panel. Chrome will show you the contrast ratio right there, with a green tick if it passes or a warning if it doesn't. Absolutely game-changing for quick checks.

4. WAVE Browser Extension (by WebAIM)

This analyses your entire page at once and highlights contrast issues along with loads of other accessibility problems. It's like having an accessibility audit right in your browser.

Personal note: I find this to be sometimes inaccurate for colour contrast and prefer to use some of the other tools mentioned.

5. Color Oracle (Free Desktop App)

This one's mega useful—it simulates different types of colour blindness (deuteranopia, protanopia, and tritanopia) so you can see exactly what your website looks like to people with colour vision deficiencies.

Step-by-Step: Checking Your Squarespace Site

1. Navigate to your live Squarespace website

2. Right-click on any text element and select 'Inspect' (see above)

3. Look at the Styles panel on the right—Chrome will show the contrast ratio (see above)

4. For a more thorough check, copy your text colour (usually listed as 'color' in CSS) and background colour

5. Paste these into the WebAIM Contrast Checker (see above)

6. Check the results—you want to see green ticks for WCAG AA (or AAA if you're being stellar)

Beyond the Basics: Contrast Tips Most People Miss

Right, here's where we get into the good stuff, the bits and pieces that most accessibility guides don't mention but can make a huge difference.

1. Text Over Images: A Potential Nightmare

Images with multiple colours create a real mess when it comes to contrast checking. Here's the thing: your text needs to have adequate contrast with every part of the image it overlaps.

Solutions:

• Add a semi-transparent overlay behind your text (dark overlay for light text, light overlay for dark text)

• Use text shadows strategically—a dark shadow around light text can significantly improve readability

• Choose images with consistent, low-contrast backgrounds where you'll place text

• In Squarespace, use banner sections with built-in overlay options—these are brilliant for maintaining good contrast

2. Don't Rely on Colour Alone

This one trips people up constantly. Let's say you're using red text to indicate errors and green for success. What happens if someone can't distinguish between red and green? They're left guessing.

Better approach:

• Combine colour with icons (✓ for success, ✗ for errors)

• Add text labels ('Success!' or 'Error') not just colour coding

• Use patterns or textures in addition to colour in charts and graphs

3. Link Visibility: The 3:1 Rule You Might Not Know

Here's a lesser-known WCAG requirement: if you remove underlines from links (as many modern designs do), your link text needs two things:

1. At least 3:1 contrast ratio between the link colour and the surrounding body text

2. A visual cue (not just colour change) on hover and focus—this usually means adding an underline back on hover

My recommendation? Just keep the underlines. It's the most accessible option and actually helps with user experience. Everyone immediately knows it's a link—no confusion, no guessing.

4. Form Field Borders and Buttons

WCAG 2.1 introduced a requirement that's often overlooked: UI components like form field borders and button outlines need a 3:1 contrast ratio against their background.

Think of it this way: if you're using a light grey border (#CCCCCC) on a white background, that's only about 1.6:1 contrast—which fails. You need a darker border colour, like #767676, which achieves a 3.5:1 ratio.

You might like this guide on using Squarespace forms.

5. The Transparency Trap

Using semi-transparent colours (like rgba(0,0,0,0.5))? The alpha value (that last number) reduces contrast because you're letting the background colour bleed through.

When checking contrast for transparent colours, you need to calculate what the final rendered colour will be when layered over its background. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker have an 'alpha' slider specifically for this.

Fixing Contrast Issues in Squarespace: Your Action Plan

Squarespace has some built-in features to help with accessibility, but you'll need to take an active role. Here's how to address contrast issues:

Adjusting Your Site Styles

1. In your Squarespace editor, go to Design → Site Styles

2. Navigate to the Colours section

3. Review each colour pairing—text colours with their background colours

4. Use the WebAIM Contrast Checker to test each combination

5. Adjust colours as needed—often you only need to make subtle changes (slightly darker text or lighter backgrounds)
   

Safe Colour Combinations to Start With

If you're not sure where to start, these combinations all pass WCAG AA standards:

• Black (#000000) on white (#FFFFFF): 21:1 ratio—maximum contrast

• Dark grey (#333333) on white: 12.6:1 ratio—passes AAA

• White text on dark blue (#003366): 10.7:1 ratio—stellar contrast

• Dark teal (#2C5F5F) on cream (#FAF9F6): 7.8:1 ratio—works beautifully for brand colours

Custom CSS for More Control

For more precise control (especially useful for specific elements that need adjusting), you can use Custom CSS in Squarespace:

1. Go to Design → Custom CSS

2. Add specific colour overrides (for example: 'a { color: #1F4E78; }' for all links)

Real-World Examples: What Good Contrast Looks Like

Let's look at some brands that get colour contrast right:

• Gov.uk: Uses predominantly black text on white or blue backgrounds with limited, high-contrast accent colours. Their design proves that accessibility doesn't mean boring; it means clear and effective.

• Patagonia: Balances their earth-tone brand colours with strong contrast for all text. They use darker shades of their brand colours for text and lighter shades for backgrounds.

• Mailchimp: Demonstrates how bright, fun brand colours can still be accessible. They use their famous yellow as an accent, not for text, and maintain excellent contrast throughout their interface.

The Business Case: Why This Actually Matters

Beyond being the right thing to do, proper colour contrast has tangible business benefits:

SEO Benefits

Whilst Google doesn't have a specific ranking factor for contrast, accessibility improvements correlate with better SEO performance.

A comprehensive study by Semrush, AccessibilityChecker.org, and BuiltWith found that websites implementing accessibility solutions saw a 12% average increase in overall traffic, with 73% of that traffic coming from organic search.

You might like this blog post on

Legal Compliance

With 4,605 ADA lawsuits filed in the US in 2024 and the European Accessibility Act coming into force in 2025, accessibility compliance isn't optional anymore.

Colour contrast is one of the easiest accessibility issues to fix; don't let it be the thing that lands you in legal hot water.

Improved Conversion Rates

When people can actually read your content, they're more likely to engage with it.

Better readability means:

• lower bounce rates

• longer time on site,

• and, ultimately, better conversion rates.

You're not leaving money on the table; you're making sure it's easy for people to find and use your services.

Your Free Resource: Contrast Checking Checklist

I've created a simple PDF checklist you can download that walks through every element on your website that needs contrast checking. It includes:

• All text elements (headings, body text, captions)

• Interactive elements (buttons, links, form fields)

• Visual elements (icons, borders, focus indicators)

• Recommended tools for each type of check

• Quick reference guide for WCAG ratios

Takeaway: Start Where You Are

Look, I get it—this might feel overwhelming if you've just discovered your carefully chosen brand colours don't meet contrast requirements. But remember: you don't have to fix everything overnight.

Start with your most important pages: your homepage, your services page, and your contact form. Run them through the WebAIM Contrast Checker. Make the adjustments that matter most. Often, you'll find you only need to tweak things slightly—a shade darker here, a bit lighter there.

The key takeaway? Good colour contrast isn't about sacrificing your brand's visual identity. It's about making sure that identity reaches everyone who visits your website. It's about clarity over cleverness. It's about choosing to include rather than accidentally exclude.

Your website should work for everyone—because your business deserves to reach everyone. Let's make sure the world can actually see the brilliant work you're doing.

Need Help Making Your Website Accessible?

If you're feeling a bit wobbly about tackling this on your own, that's absolutely normal. Website accessibility can feel like navigating a maze, especially when you're trying to run your business at the same time.

I offer a Pro Website Audit with Strategy that includes a comprehensive accessibility review with specific recommendations for your Squarespace site (and other platforms). We'll look at colour contrast, yes, but also at the bigger picture of creating a website that truly works for everyone.

Get in touch via my contact form and let's chat about how I can help make your online presence not just beautiful, but accessible to everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all websites legally need to meet WCAG contrast requirements?

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 requires websites to be accessible. In the US, whilst the ADA doesn't explicitly mention websites, courts have consistently ruled that websites are considered 'places of public accommodation' and must be accessible. WCAG 2.1 Level AA is the widely accepted standard for compliance in both regions.

Can I test contrast on my mobile phone?

Absolutely! The WebAIM Contrast Checker works brilliantly on mobile browsers. You can also download apps like 'Colour Contrast Analyser' for desktop and iOS. It lets you use your phone's camera to check contrast on the fly.

What if my logo doesn't meet contrast requirements?

Logos and logotypes are exempt from WCAG contrast requirements. However, this exception only applies to the actual logo itself, not to your general brand colours used throughout your website content.

How often should I check my website's contrast?

Check whenever you make design changes, add new content, or update your brand colours. I recommend a comprehensive accessibility audit (including contrast) at least annually, or whenever you do a major website refresh.

Are Squarespace templates automatically accessible?

Unfortunately, no. Whilst Squarespace has built-in accessibility features and some templates are better than others, none are automatically fully accessible out of the box. You'll need to actively review and adjust colours, add alt text, check heading structure, and more. The good news is that Squarespace makes these adjustments quite straightforward once you know what to look for.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist

• 6. Small Business Web Maintenance Tracker. Keep up with regular tasks using my Notion template

• 7. Colour Contrast Checklist PDF

The Complete Guide to Squarespace Forms: From Basic Setup to Clever Conditional Logic.

Struggling to collect the right information from your website visitors? Are generic contact forms no longer cutting it? Or perhaps you're wondering how to create forms that actually feel like a conversation rather than an interrogation?

In this blog post, we'll cover:

• How to set up Squarespace forms the proper way (step-by-step walk-through)

• The game-changing 2025 conditional logic feature that most people don't know about yet

• Creative ways to use forms beyond basic contact pages

• Pro tips for maximising submissions and keeping your data organised

• Common mistakes that are leaving potential clients' information on the table

Whether you're a coach or creative needing intake forms, an educator collecting registrations, or a service pro wanting to qualify leads before hopping on calls, Squarespace forms can do far more than you might think. And the best bit? You don't need any fancy plugins or coding knowledge.

And if you’re thinking about working together: 👉 Visit my Services Page, Web Design Packages, and here 👉 for Squarespace Support 🩵♥️💙

What Are Squarespace Forms (and Why Should You Care)?

Think of Squarespace forms as your website's conversation starters. They're customisable blocks you can add to any page to collect information from visitors—names, emails, project details, whatever you need. But here's the thing most people miss: forms aren't just about gathering data. They're about creating an experience that makes people want to share their information with you.

A well-designed form can be the difference between a visitor bouncing off your site and a qualified lead landing in your inbox.

According to recent research, blog articles generate 29% of organic traffic; however, conversion-focused pages, such as forms, convert 4x times better when done correctly.

- Neil Patel's research reviewing 15,000 websites in 2025

The Three Types of Information You Can Collect:

1. Essential contact details - Name, email, phone number (the basics, but presented thoughtfully)

2. Qualifying information - Budget, timeline, services needed (helps you prioritise your time)

3. Preference data - Communication style, availability, specific requirements (makes your follow-up feel personal, not robotic)

How to Add a Squarespace Form: Step-by-Step

Right then, let's get into the practical bits. Setting up a basic form is actually dead simple, but doing it well requires a bit more thought.

Walkthrough video on Squarespace forms and conditional logic.

Step 1: Navigate to Your Page

1. Log in to your Squarespace dashboard

2. Click on Pages in the left-hand menu

3. Select the page where you want your form (or create a new one—I often recommend a contact page or a dedicated 'Work with Me' or 'Get Started' page)

Step 2: Add the Form Block

1. Click Edit on your chosen page

2. Hover over the area where you want the form

3. Click the + icon to add a block

4. Select Form from the menu that appears

Voilà! You've got yourself a form. But we're not done yet.

Step 3: Customise Your Form Fields

This is where the magic happens. Click the pencil icon on your form, then select Edit Form Fields.

You'll see options for:

• Name (First name, Last name, or Full name)

• Email (always make this required—you need a way to respond!)

• Phone Number (great for service businesses)

• Address (if you're local or need physical location details)

• Subject (helps you categorise enquiries)

• Message (the open-ended bit)

• Dropdown (perfect for service options or enquiry types)

• Radio Buttons (single choice questions)

• Checkboxes (multiple choice options)

• Date and Time (brilliant for booking enquiries)

Pro tip: Don't ask for everything under the sun. Every additional field reduces your completion rate. Ask only for what you absolutely need at this stage. You can always gather more information later.

Step 4: Configure Your Storage Options

Here's something crucial that trips people up: you must connect a storage option, or your form won't work. Squarespace doesn't store submissions automatically in the form block itself.

Click the Storage tab and choose at least one option:

Email Address - Get submissions sent directly to your inbox (I always recommend this as your primary option)

Form Submitters List - Stores submissions in Squarespace's Contacts panel (mega useful for building your database)

Google Drive - Creates a spreadsheet automatically (fab for tracking and analysis)

Mailchimp - Adds submitters directly to your email list

Zapier - Connects to virtually any other app you use

I always recommend setting up two storage options. If one fails (and we all know, tech does have its moments), you've got a backup.

Step 5: Customise the Post-Submit Message

Don't leave your visitors hanging! After someone submits your form, they should see a message that:

• Confirms their submission went through

• Sets expectations for your response time

• Provides any next steps

Something like: "Lovely! I've received your message, and I'll get back to you within 48 hours. In the meantime, feel free to browse my [portfolio/blog/resources]."

The Game-Changer: Conditional Logic (Follow-Up Questions)

This is a feature that's not discussed nearly enough, and it's absolutely transforming how professional websites collect information.

What Is Conditional Logic?

Conditional logic was added to Squarespace in 2025. It’s what Squarespace calls "follow-up questions". This means your form adapts based on how someone answers previous questions. It's like having a conversation rather than handing someone a clipboard with 20 questions.

Here's a real-world scenario:

You're a Pilates instructor offering three different service levels. Instead of asking irrelevant questions about all three, your form asks:

"Which service interests you?"

• 1:1 instruction

• In-person class

• Online class

Let’s say they select "1:1 instruction," a follow-up question appears: "How familiar are you with Pilates?"

Next, there are 3 choices:

1. “I’m fairly proficient, just need some specific help”.

2. “I’ve been to a few classes”.

3. “No experience”.

Next, the visitor is invited to choose a date they would like to meet for a 1:1 instruction.

If they select “Class at my Studio”, they’ll be directed to provide an email address.

If they select “Online Class”, they’ll be prompted to download a PDF class schedule.

The result? Higher completion rates (people only answer what's relevant to them), better quality leads (you get exactly the information you need), and more professional experience (feels tailored, not generic).

How to Add Conditional Logic to Your Forms

This feature works with four field types: Dropdown, Checkbox, Radio Buttons, and Survey questions.

Step-by-step:

1. Add your main question (e.g., a dropdown asking about service interest)

2. Click the three dots next to any answer option

3. Select Add Follow-Up Question

4. Choose which type of field you want to use for the follow-up

5. Configure your follow-up question

6. Repeat for other options as needed

You can add multiple follow-ups to the same option if needed. For instance, if someone selects "1:1 Instruction", you might ask both "What date are you available?" and "How many sessions per month?"

Important limitations to know:

• Squarespace currently supports one level of conditional logic (follow-ups can't trigger more follow-ups—yet!)

• The follow-up questions appear below the parent question, not on a separate page

Creative Ways to Use Conditional Logic

1. Service-Based Businesses

Main question: "What type of support do you need?"

• One-off website audit → Follow-up: "Which platform is your site built on?"

• Ongoing maintenance → Follow-up: "How many hours per month?"

• Full website design → Follow-up: "Do you have existing brand guidelines?"

2. Coaches and Consultants

Main question: "Where are you in your business journey?"

• Just starting → Follow-up: "What's your biggest challenge at the moment?"

• Established but stuck → Follow-up: "What's working well already?"

• Scaling phase → Follow-up: "What systems do you already have in place?"

3. Event Registrations

Main question: "Will you attend in person or virtually?"

• In person → Follow-up: "Do you have any dietary requirements?"

• Virtual → Follow-up: "Which time zone are you in?"

4. The "Other" Option Done Right

Instead of providing endless dropdown options, use: Main question: "Which service interests you?" (List your main 3-4 options, then add "Other")

• Other → Follow-up: "Please describe what you're looking for"

Beyond Contact Forms: Clever Uses for Squarespace Forms

Most people pop a contact form on their contact page and call it done. But forms can do so much more:

1. Project Enquiry Forms with Smart Qualification

Create a dedicated "Start a Project" page with a form that qualifies leads before they reach your inbox. Ask about:

• Budget range (use a dropdown to make it less awkward)

• Timeline expectations

• What they've already tried

• How they found you

This saves you from discovery calls with people who aren't ready to invest or whose timeline doesn't match your availability.

2. Waitlist Sign-Ups That Build Anticipation

Launching a new programme or course? Create a waitlist form that:

• Captures interest and email

• Asks what specific outcomes they're after

• Collects questions they want answered

When you're ready to launch, you've got a ready-made audience who've already expressed interest.

3. Resource Request Forms That Grow Your List

Offering a free guide, checklist, or template? Instead of a generic newsletter pop-up, create a proper landing page with a form that:

• Feels less spammy than a pop-up

• Can ask qualifying questions (e.g., "What's your biggest challenge with website design?")

• Segments your audience from the start

4. Feedback and Testimonial Collection

Make it easy for happy clients to leave feedback with a form that asks:

• What was their situation before working with you?

• What changed after?

• What would they tell someone considering your services?

• Can you use their feedback publicly? (checkbox for permission)

5. VIP Day Booking Forms

If you offer intensive one-day sessions (like my VIP Squarespace maintenance days), use a form to:

• Check availability preferences

• Gather all necessary details upfront

• Set expectations about what's included

• Collect payment or deposit information if you're using Squarespace Commerce

6. Speaker or Podcast Guest Applications

If you speak at events or guest on podcasts, create an "Invite Me" page with a form collecting:

• Event/podcast name and audience size

• The topic they want you to cover

• Date and format (in-person, virtual, pre-recorded)

• Compensation or exposure offered

This feels far more professional than asking people to email you with "whatever details."

Pro Tips for Forms That Actually Get Completed

I've designed many optimised forms over the years, and these tips consistently boost completion rates:

1. Keep It Conversational

Instead of: "Please provide your full legal name" Try: "What should I call you?"

Instead of: "State your specific requirements" Try: "What brought you to my website today?"

A previous blog post: Show Your Brand Personality On Your Website

2. Use Field Descriptions Wisely

Below each field, you can add a description. Use this to:

• Set expectations ("I'll respond within 2 business days")

• Ease concerns ("Your email won't be shared with anyone")

• Provide guidance ("Be as specific as possible—it helps me prepare for our call")

3. Make Your Button Text Actionable

Instead of "Submit" (it sounds like homework). Try:

• "Let's Chat"

• "Send My Message"

• "Yes, I'm Interested"

• "Get My Free Guide"

4. Style Your Forms Intentionally

Forms should match your brand, but also be clearly visible. Make sure:

• Field labels are easy to read

• There's enough contrast between the text and the background

• Required fields are clearly marked

• Your form doesn't get lost in your page design

Go to Design in your form settings to adjust colours, fonts, and spacing.

5. Test on Mobile

Over 60% of web traffic is mobile now. Test the following:

• Open your site on your phone and try completing your form. Are the fields too small?

• Does the keyboard cover important information?

• Is it easy to tap the submit button?

Common Form Mistakes That Cost You Leads

Mistake 1: Asking for Too Much Information

I see this constantly. A simple contact form that asks for name, email, phone, company, industry, website URL, budget, timeline, how they found you, and their favourite colour (okay, I'm exaggerating on that last one, but you get my point).

Each additional field is a barrier. Start with essentials only.

Mistake 2: Not Having a Clear Privacy Policy

With GDPR and general privacy concerns, people want to know what you'll do with their data. You might want to link to your privacy policy or add a note below the form.

Mistake 3: No Confirmation Message

If someone submits a form and sees nothing, they'll submit it again. And again. Then you've got three identical submissions, and they're wondering if you got any of them. Always include a clear confirmation message.

Mistake 4: Only Having One Storage Option

Your primary email service could have a wobbly day. The internet might have a bit of a situation. Always have a backup storage option.

Mistake 5: Burying Your Forms

If someone has to click through five pages to find your contact form, they won't bother. Make forms easy to find—in your navigation, footer, and strategically throughout your site.

How to Keep Your Form Submissions Organised

Here's what I do for my clients (and what I'd recommend for you):

Use Squarespace's Contacts Panel as Your Primary Database

This stores all form submissions with required email fields in one place within Squarespace. You can:

• Add tags to categorise leads

• Add notes about each contact

• Track communication history

• Export data when needed

Set Up Google Drive as Your Backup

Google Sheets automatically updates with each submission, giving you a tidy spreadsheet that's easy to:

• Sort and filter

• Share with team members

• Use for reporting and analysis

• Keep it as a backup

Connect to Your CRM via Zapier

If you use a CRM like Bloom, Dubsado, HubSpot, Honeybook, or Airtable, connect your forms via Zapier to automatically:

• Create new contacts

• Trigger workflows

• Assign tags based on form responses

• Send automated follow-up emails

Forms and GDPR: What You Need to Know

If you're working with UK or EU clients (or if you're based here like me), you need to handle personal data properly:

Required elements:

• Clear statement about what you'll do with the information

• Link to your privacy policy

• Consent checkbox for marketing communications (must be unchecked by default)

• An easy way for people to request data deletion

Good practice: Only collect data you actually need. Don't ask for a phone number if you'll never call. Don't ask for their address if you work remotely.

Link: GDPR compliance resources from ICO (UK)

LEGAL POLICIES: I use Termageddon for their comprehensive, auto-updating website policy generator tool - than any other solution out there. I use and recommend to my clients. They also have great support.

Use the code HINCHLIFFE for 10% OFF.

Troubleshooting: When Forms Don't Work

Problem: "Form submissions aren't reaching me"

Check:

• Is a storage option connected?

• Is the email address correct?

• Check your spam folder

• Verify your domain email is working properly

Problem: "The form looks rubbish on mobile"

• Edit your form in Desktop view, then switch to Mobile preview

• Adjust spacing and sizing specifically for mobile

• Consider using a single-column layout for mobile

Problem: "People are starting forms but not finishing them"

• Reduce the number of required fields

• Add progress indicators if it's a long form

• Test the form yourself—is anything confusing?

• Check if the submit button is clearly visible

Bonus: Squarespace Forms + AI for Better Lead Follow-Up

Here's something clever you might not have considered: Use Squarespace forms to feed data into AI tools via Zapier.

Example workflow:

1. Someone submits your form

2. Zapier catches the submission

3. It feeds the information to an AI tool (like ChatGPT)

4. The AI drafts a personalised follow-up email based on their specific responses

5. You review and send (or set it to auto-send with your approval)

This is particularly brilliant if you get a lot of enquiries and want to respond quickly with personalised touches, not generic templates.

The Bottom Line: Forms Are Your 24/7 Business Development Team

Think of it this way: Your forms work whilst you're sleeping, walking the dog, or enjoying a proper cup of tea. They're qualifying leads, collecting information, and building your database around the clock.

But only if they're set up properly. A form that's too long, too confusing, or buried three clicks deep isn't working for you—it's working against you.

With the new conditional logic features Squarespace rolled out in March 2025, there's absolutely no reason your forms can't be as smart and intuitive as a real conversation. And that's what converts visitors into clients.

Takeaway: Your Action Plan

Here's what I want you to do this week:

If you don't have forms yet:

1. Create a dedicated contact or enquiry page

2. Add a form with just the essentials (name, email, message)

3. Set up email AND Contacts panel storage

4. Test it thoroughly on mobile and desktop

If you already have basic forms:

1. Review what information you're actually collecting vs. what you need

2. Implement at least one conditional logic flow

3. Update your submit button and confirmation message to be more engaging

4. Check your storage options and add a backup if you only have one

If you're already using forms well:

1. Create specialised forms for different purposes (waitlist, VIP days, testimonials)

2. Experiment with more sophisticated conditional logic flows

3. Connect to Zapier for automated workflows

4. Track which forms convert best and optimise accordingly

Forms aren't flashy. They're not the sexiest part of your website. But they're absolutely critical to converting visitors into clients. And with Squarespace's fab features, they're far more powerful than most people realise.

Takeaway:

Ready to transform your website forms from basic to brilliant?

Book a 90-minute Squarespace Help Call, and I'll set up strategic forms that actually work for your business—complete with conditional logic, linked proper storage, and follow-up workflows. Because you've built something meaningful, and your forms should reflect that.

Have questions about implementing forms on your site? Click the button to head over to my Contact page, and drop me a message using a form (see what I did there? 😉) and let's chat.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

• 6. Small Business Web Maintenance Tracker. Keep up with regular tasks using my Notion template.

Your Squarespace website launched beautifully. You felt absolutely chuffed to bits. But launching your site isn't the finish line; it's just the start.

If you've been treating your website like a "set it and forget it" appliance, you're not alone. But you might be leaving money on the table. Over 61% of businesses now use third-party website maintenance services, and there's a blooming good reason why.

In this blog post, we'll cover:

1. Why Squarespace website maintenance is essential

2. What happens when you skip it

3. The practical steps you can take to keep your site working beautifully for your business

4. I'll share how my VIP Website Maintenance Day can solve months of website headaches in just one focused session

5. Plus, get my free Notion Small Business Web Maintenance Tracker (sign up below ⬇️)

Want help with maintenance? Click here 👉 VIP Squarespace Website Maintenance Service

All In One Place - Visual, Customisable & Simple Tracker Template ⬇️:

Free resource, perfect for anyone who has ever thought “I really should check 👀 my website…”.

What's Inside Your Squarespace Website Maintenance Tracker:

✅ Monthly, Quarterly, Annual Checklist
✅ Walk-through video
✅ Notes Section
✅ Last Checked Dates
✅ Helpful Resources

What Is Squarespace Website Maintenance (And Why Does It Even Matter)?

First off, let's clarify the basics. Squarespace already handles the technical heavy-lifting—hosting, security, and platform updates happen automatically. Brilliant, right?

But here's what Squarespace doesn't do:

• Keep your content fresh and aligned with your evolving business

• Check that your forms are actually working (and not sending enquiries into the digital void)

• Optimise images that are slowing down your site

• Fix broken links that frustrate visitors and harm your SEO

• Update your SEO settings as search algorithms change

• Test your mobile experience regularly

Think of it like this: Squarespace maintains the engine of your website. You're responsible for maintaining everything else—the tyres, the steering, the sat nav. And when those bits go wobbly, your business can suffer.

Issues like slow load times, broken links, and outdated content pile up fast and quietly chip away at your site's performance—and according to research, website maintenance can vary considerably, depending on complexity and size of business. But what's the cost of not maintaining it?

The Hidden Cost of Website Neglect

Picture this: You're a busy yoga teacher with a thriving practice. A potential customer finds you on Google, clicks through to your site, and...

• Your contact form doesn't work (you never knew)

• Your "Book a Call" or “Book a Class” link is broken

• Your About page still mentions classes you stopped offering in 2023

• The site loads sooooo slowly on mobile that they give up

They've gone. And they're not coming back.

Approximately 13% of people will leave a website if it takes more than 2 seconds to load, and this number increases to 40% if the website takes over 3 seconds to load. That's nearly half your potential clients disappearing before they even see your brilliant work.

Here's what typically happens when websites go unmaintained:

Your SEO Rankings Drop

Search engines reward websites that are fresh, well-maintained, and up-to-date. SEO is an ongoing process that takes consistent work because search engines update their algorithms, user behaviour shifts, and competition never stops. When you're not regularly updating your site, Google notices—and your rankings suffer.

Your Forms Stop Working

Nothing's more frustrating than discovering (weeks later) that your contact form has been broken, and you've been missing enquiries. It happens more often than you'd think.

Your Site Becomes Outdated

That gorgeous site you launched two years ago? It's showing its age. Design trends evolve. Your business evolves. Your offerings change. If your website doesn't reflect that, you look out of touch.

Technical Gremlins Multiply

One broken link leads to another. An oversized image can slow down your whole site. A plugin integration stops working. Small issues snowball into big headaches.

What Web Maintenance Actually Involves

Right then, let's talk about what proper Squarespace website maintenance looks like. Whether you're doing it yourself, using my tracker, or hiring someone to handle it, here are the essential tasks:

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

1. Test Your Contact Forms

Submit a test message to make sure forms are working and emails are landing in your inbox. Check any booking links, opt-in forms, or scheduling integrations too.

2. Check Your Site Speed

Fast loading keeps visitors engaged, and images that are too large can drag down your entire site. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to spot issues. Compress any recent images you've uploaded.

3. Review Your SEO Settings

SEO page descriptions tell Google exactly what each page is about. Make sure every page has a unique, keyword-rich description that accurately reflects your content.

Blog post: Can Google Search Console help your Squarespace website get seen?

4. Fix Broken Links

Broken links create frustration and signal to both Google and your visitors that your site is poorly maintained. Use a tool like Broken Link Checker or manually click through your newest content.

5. Test Mobile Experience

More than half of all website traffic comes from mobile phones. Grab your phone and actually navigate your site. Check buttons, forms, images, and navigation.

Quarterly Website Tasks

• 1. Update your blog or portfolio with recent work

• 2. Refresh homepage copy (your words) to reflect current offerings

• 3. Review analytics to see what's working (and what's not)

• 4. Check third-party integrations like email marketing tools or scheduling apps

• 5. Update any seasonal content or offers

Annual Website Strategy

• 1. Complete SEO audit to identify new opportunities

• 2. Refresh your brand photography if needed

• 3. Review and update service pages to match your current packages

• 4. Check legal pages (privacy policy, terms, etc.)

• 5. Consider design updates to keep things fresh

• 6. Copyright date is updated to the current year

The Real-World Impact of Regular Maintenance

Let me share a scenario I see all the time:

Julie (not her real name), a leadership coach, launched her beautiful Squarespace site in 2022. She was thrilled with it. Fast forward 18 months, and she's noticed her enquiries have dried up. She's posting on social media. She's networking. But her website? Crickets.

When we looked under the hood, here's what we found:

• Her contact form had stopped sending emails (she'd changed providers and never reconnected it)

• Her "Work With Me" page still listed a 6-month programme she no longer offered

• Her blog hadn't been updated in over a year

• Three external links were broken

• Her homepage images were massive (3MB+ each!) and her site loaded in 8 seconds on mobile

The thing is, Julie's business had grown. She'd refined her offerings, raised her prices, and developed serious expertise. But her website told a completely different story—one of an outdated, potentially unreliable business.

We spent one VIP Maintenance Day together and transformed her site. Within three weeks, she had three discovery call bookings. Within 6 weeks, she'd signed two new clients. The site finally reflected her excellence.

Why "Set It and Forget It" Doesn't Work Anymore

Your business isn't static. Neither should your website be.

You're growing. Your services are evolving. Your expertise is deepening. Your ideal clients' needs are changing. The landscape of website management demands a proactive approach to maintenance that keeps pace with your business growth.

Plus, the digital world moves fast:

• Google's algorithms update constantly

• Design trends shift

• User expectations rise

• Mobile usage continues to dominate

If you're not maintaining your site, you're falling behind—even if you can't see it happening.

DIY vs Professional Squarespace Maintenance

So, I'm all for doing things yourself when it makes sense. But let's be honest: you started your business to coach or educate clients, create art, teach courses, or provide your brilliant services—not to become a website maintenance expert. Am I right?

When DIY Makes Sense:

• You have the time and enjoy the technical side

• Your site is relatively simple, with minimal updates needed

• You're comfortable troubleshooting issues yourself

• Your budget is tight, and time is plentiful

When Professional Help Makes Sense:

• You're too busy running your actual business

• You don't enjoy the techy stuff (or it makes you anxious)

• You've been putting off updates for months

• You want someone who knows Squarespace inside out

• You value peace of mind over cost savings

Outsourcing maintenance enables biz owners to focus on core aspects of their business, enhancing productivity and revenue generation. That's not just marketing speak—it's maths. If you bill £100/hour and spend 5 hours wrestling with your website, that's £500 of your time. Could you have earned more by focusing on your zone of genius instead?

How My VIP Website Maintenance Day Works

I created my VIP Squarespace Website Maintenance Day specifically for established business owners like you who need expert help without the faff.

Here's what makes it different:

It's Focused

One day. One website. One expert (me!). No distractions, no dragging things out for weeks. We tackle your priority list efficiently.

It's Flexible

Whether you need content updates, design tweaks, functionality fixes, SEO optimisation, or technical troubleshooting—it's all on the table. You set the priorities.

It's Done Right

With many years of design experience and deep Squarespace knowledge, I spot issues you might miss and implement solutions that actually work.

You Stay in Control

You share your task list in advance. We may have a planning call. Then I crack on while you focus on your business. I keep you updated throughout the day, and you get a full summary of everything completed.

Popular requests include:

✔ Batching blog posts, products, or portfolio items

✔ Design refreshes and layout improvements

✔ Form setup and integration fixes

✔ SEO optimisation across pages

✔ Broken link repairs and URL mapping

✔ Technical problem-solving

✔ E-commerce setup and updates

✔ Third-party tool integrations

Investment: £698 (payment plans available)

Limited slots each month, so if this sounds like exactly what you need, let's have a chat.

Quick Wins You Can Implement Today

Not ready for a full maintenance session? Here are five things you can do right now to improve your site:

1. Get my Website Maintenance Tracker template.

2. Test your contact form. Seriously. Do it now. Submit a test enquiry and make sure it arrives.

3. Check your site on your phone. Navigate through your key pages. Do buttons work? Does text overlap? Is it fast?

4. Update your homepage intro. Make sure it reflects your current offerings and speaks to your ideal client right now.

5. Fix one broken thing. That outdated service package, the wonky mobile menu, the slow-loading image—pick one and fix it.

6. Review your SEO descriptions. Go to your top 3 pages and make sure the SEO description accurately describes what's on the page. Include relevant keywords naturally.

These small wins build momentum. But if you've got a list of 20+ items (or you just don't fancy doing them), that's exactly what my VIP Day is for.

The Bottom Line: Your Website Is a Business Asset

Your website isn't just digital wallpaper. It's a 24/7 salesperson, brand ambassador, and first impression rolled into one.

When it's well-maintained, it:

• Attracts the right clients effortlessly

• Builds trust and credibility

• Converts visitors into enquiries

• Reflects your current expertise and offerings

• Works hard so you don't have to

When it's neglected, it:

• Sends visitors away before they even contact you

• Makes you look outdated or unprofessional

• Misses out on search engine traffic

• Frustrates both you and your potential clients

• Becomes a source of stress rather than support

You've done the hard work of building a meaningful business. Let's make absolutely sure your website reflects that brilliance.

FAQs About Squarespace Website Maintenance

How often should I update my Squarespace website?

Ideally, check the basics monthly (forms, speed, mobile experience), do content updates quarterly, and complete a strategic review annually. The more active your business, the more frequent your updates should be.

Is Squarespace really maintenance-free?

Squarespace handles platform updates, hosting, and security automatically—which is brilliant. But you're still responsible for content updates, SEO optimisation, form testing, performance checks, and keeping everything aligned with your evolving business.

What's the biggest mistake people make with website maintenance?

Waiting until something breaks. Proactive maintenance prevents problems. Reactive maintenance is expensive, stressful, and often means you've already lost potential clients.

How much should I budget for website maintenance?

It depends on your needs. DIY is free but costs your time. My VIP Maintenance Day is £698 for up to 8 hours of focused work. Monthly retainers typically range from £150-£500+ depending on complexity and frequency.

Can't I just update everything myself?

Absolutely—if you have the time, knowledge, and inclination! But most business owners find that outsourcing saves time, reduces stress, and delivers better results. Your zone of genius probably isn't website maintenance, and that's completely fine.

What happens if I don't maintain my website?

Your SEO rankings drop. Your site gets slower. Broken elements frustrate visitors. Outdated content makes you look unprofessional. And worst of all, you lose potential clients who never even tell you there was a problem—they simply leave.

How do I know if my website needs professional help?

If you've been putting off updates for months, if you're not confident making changes yourself, if you've noticed a drop in enquiries, or if the thought of logging into your site makes you anxious—it's time to bring in help.

Takeaway:

Your Squarespace website needs regular maintenance—not because it's broken, but because your business is growing.

Truthfully, maintaining your website isn't about perfection. It's about progress. It's about making sure your online presence keeps pace with your offline excellence.

Whether you choose to handle maintenance yourself or hand it over to someone who loves this stuff (hi! 👋), the important thing is that it gets done. Consistently. Strategically. With care.

Ready to give your website the attention it deserves?

If you have a list of updates gathering dust, broken links you keep meaning to fix, or content that's embarrassingly out of date, let's sort it out together. My VIP Website Maintenance Day could be exactly what you need.

Or, if you're looking for a quick Squarespace Help fix, try this. For ongoing strategy and a completely fresh start, check out my Squarespace Web Design packages or book a Website Audit with Strategy to identify exactly what your site needs next.

Your business has the power to transform lives. Let's make sure your website reflects that. 🌱

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

• 6. Small Business Web Maintenance Tracker (Notion Template)

Developing a brand identity isn't just a pretty logo – it's the entire personality of your business brought to life online and offline.

If you've been wondering why some businesses instantly feel trustworthy whilst yours might feel a bit... cobbled together, the answer lies in how you've defined (or haven't defined) your brand identity.

According to recent research, 81% of consumers need to trust a brand before making a purchase, and a consistent brand identity can increase revenue by up to 23%. (G2 Learning Hub: Branding Statistics 2025).

In this post, I’ll share:

• What brand identity truly means, and

• How to create one that transforms how clients/customers see your business

• Real-life brand examples

• Some FAQs

And, in case you’re interested in working together, here’s a little look at my 👉 services.

The Honest Truth About Most Brand Identities

Here's what I see far too often: a business owner spends 2+ years building something absolutely stellar – brilliant service, happy clients, decent word-of-mouth. But when you visit their website or see their marketing materials, it’s not quite the look you're probably after; it’s a bit amateur.

One social post has a blue logo. The website shows green. Images aren’t consistent. The email signature? Well, don't even get me started.

And I get it. You've been focused on helping clients and growing your biz, not agonising over fonts and colour palettes. But, honestly, your brand identity is how people recognise you before they've even read a word you've written.

Here’s a blog post I’ve written on signs it’s time to refresh your brand identity.

Studies show that visual elements alone form first impressions 55% of the time. That means more than half your potential clients have decided whether they trust you based purely on what they see.

What Brand Identity Actually Includes

Your brand identity isn't just one thing – it's the complete visual and verbal personality of your business. According to Neil Patel, brand identity encompasses logos, typography, colours, packaging, messaging, and even how your team speaks to customers.

Think of brands like McDonald's or Apple – you know exactly what they stand for (whether you buy into them, or not) without anyone having to explain it. That's the power of a clear, consistent brand identity.

The Core Elements of Brand Identity:

1. Visual Identity

• Logo and logo variations

• Colour palette (and when to use each shade)

• Typography (fonts that reflect your brand personality)

• Photography style and imagery

• Design elements and patterns

2. Verbal Identity

• Brand voice and tone

• Key messaging and taglines

• Your brand story

• How you describe what you do

3. Brand Values and Purpose

• Why you do what you do

• What you stand for

• The transformation you create for clients

• How you want people to feel when they work with you

Why Brand Identity Matters More Than Ever

Let me tell you about a client. She's a life coach who came to me after running her business for three years. She had clients, she had income, but she felt invisible online. Her website looked decent enough, but it didn't feel like her. Her Instagram was all over the shop, and didn’t gel with her website vibe at all. And she was absolutely leaving money on the table because potential clients couldn't quickly understand what made her different.

For her rebrand, we spent time defining her brand identity – not just picking lush colours, but getting clear on her purpose, her values, and how she wanted to show up. Within three months of launching her refreshed brand, she:

• Increased her discovery call bookings by 40%

• Attracted more aligned clients (fewer tyre-kickers)

• Felt confident sharing her work on social media

• Started charging premium prices without apology

Want results like my client? Consider a Website Audit with Strategy

And here's a data point that should make you sit up:

64% of consumers form brand loyalty because of shared values. Your ideal clients want to connect with you and what you stand for – but they can't do that if your brand identity is unclear.

That's what a clear brand identity does. It doesn't just make things look nicer – it transforms how people perceive your value.

The Cost of Getting It Wrong (Or Ignoring It Altogether)

Inconsistent branding doesn't just make you look a tad unprofessional – it actively costs you money. Studies show that conflicting brand usage can lead to a 56% decrease in brand recognition. That means people literally can't remember you, even if they've seen your content multiple times.

And whilst you're busy serving clients brilliantly, your competitors with clear brand identities are scooping up the prospects who should have been yours. A bit galling, right?

Common brand identity, woopsies, I see:

• Using different logos across different platforms

• Inconsistent colours and fonts

• A website that looks nothing like your social media

• Generic stock photos that could belong to anyone, AND don’t fit with your fonts and colours

• Messaging that sounds like everyone else in your industry

• No clear visual style or personality

Did you know – it takes an average of 5-7 brand interactions for consumers to recall a brand. If each interaction looks different, you're pretty much starting from scratch every single time.

How to Create a Brand Identity That Attracts Your Ideal Clients

Building a strong brand identity isn't about being flashy or trendy. It's about being clear and consistent. Here's how we'll approach it together:

1. Start With Your Purpose and Values

Before you even think about colours, ask yourself: Why do I do this work? What do I believe? Understanding your core purpose is the foundation of everything. You need to ask yourself "why" several times until you get to the real heart of your business.

For example, you might say: "I'm a business coach."

Why? "Because I help people grow their businesses."

Why? "Because I believe everyone deserves to create freedom and joyful work."

That's your purpose. That's what your brand identity should reflect.

2. Define Your Visual Identity

Once you're clear on your values, we can create visuals that reflect them. This includes:

• A colour palette that evokes the right emotions (did you know that strategic use of colour can improve brand recognition by up to 80%?)

• Fonts that match your brand personality

• A logo that's simple, memorable, and scalable

• Photography and imagery guidelines

And absolutely no generic stock photos of people in suits shaking hands. Your brand deserves better.

3. Develop Your Brand Voice

How do you speak to your clients? Are you warm and conversational or authoritative and formal? Your brand voice should feel authentic to you whilst resonating with your ideal clients.

This is where so many businesses fall down – they try to sound like everyone else in their industry instead of leaning into what makes them unique.

4. Create Brand Guidelines

This is your brand identity bible. It documents everything from your logo usage to your colour codes to example messaging. It ensures that whether you're creating a social post, updating your website, or designing a lead magnet, everything feels cohesive.

Research shows that 68% of companies maintaining brand consistency contribute 10-20% to revenue growth. That's not pocket change – that's real impact on your bottom line.

5. Apply It Consistently Everywhere

Your brand identity should be recognisable across:

• Your website

• Social media profiles and posts

• Email signatures

• Marketing materials

• Client-facing documents

• Packaging (if applicable)

Consistency is key. Brands that present a consistent image across platforms are significantly more likely to be remembered and trusted.

Feeling overwhelmed? Let's simplify this together – book a discovery call.

Brand Identity in Action: What We Can Learn

Think about brands you trust instantly. Patagonia, for instance, has built such a strong brand identity around environmental responsibility that customers know exactly what they stand for before clicking "buy." Their consistent commitment to sustainability has cultivated a loyal customer base that aligns with their values – and they're willing to pay premium prices because of it.

• Or, a new to me USA company, Warby Parker. Their brand identity isn't just about stylish eyewear – it's about accessible fashion with purpose. The visual identity is clean and modern, but what really sets them apart is the consistency of their message across every touchpoint: “Buy a pair, give a pair - make an impact!.”

• Another UK fashion brand and one of my personal favourites is Seasalt. They are a certified B Corporation, use responsibly sourced fabrics, and are working towards becoming a Carbon Net Zero business by 2040, collaborating with other retailers in the British Retail Consortium's Climate Action Roadmap. And there’s more good stuff…

These aren't flashy brands. They're clear ones. And that clarity has transformed them from businesses into movements.

Brand Identity vs. Brand Strategy (And Why You Need Both)

Quick distinction here, because these terms get thrown around:

• Brand identity is how your brand looks and speaks.

• Brand strategy is why and what you're communicating, and who you're speaking to.

You need both. A beautiful brand identity without strategy is just decoration. And a brilliant strategy without a clear identity gets lost in the noise.

When I work with a client on their brand before the web build, we're not just making things pretty – we're aligning your visuals with your value and creating a cohesive experience that speaks directly to your ideal clients.

Real Questions from Business Owners Like You

Q: I'm not a designer. Can I really create a strong brand identity?

Absolutely. You don't need to be a designer – you need to be clear on who you are and what you stand for. Saying that, sometimes we can be a bit ‘close’ to our business, and that’s when help can be useful. The design execution can be handled by a professional (ahem, that's where I come in), but you are the expert on your business.

Q: My business is evolving. Should I wait to define my brand identity?

No! Your brand identity should evolve with you, but having something clear and consistent is always better than waiting. Most companies consider rebranding every 7-10 years with smaller refreshes in between. Start where you are.

Q: Won't a strong brand identity make me seem too corporate?

Quite the opposite. A clear brand identity helps you show up as yourself, not a generic business robot. The goal is authenticity, not corporate blandness.

Q: How long does it take to create a brand identity?

For a custom website with a basic brand identity and strategy, we're typically looking at 4-8 weeks, depending on the scope. A full rebrand can take 3+ months, but foundational work can be done much faster.

Q: I already have a logo. Do I need to start from scratch?

Not necessarily. Sometimes we can work with what you have and refine it. Other times, a fresh start is the best option. We'll map it out together during a discovery call.

The Transformation a Clear Brand Identity Creates

When you invest in defining your brand identity properly, here's what shifts:

For Your Business:

• More qualified leads who already understand your value

• Higher perceived expertise and authority

• Ability to charge premium prices £$

• Easier content creation (because you have clear guidelines)

• Stronger recognition and recall

For You:

• Confidence in how you show up online

• Less second-guessing about design decisions

• Pride in sharing your business

• Clarity on your messaging

• Freedom from comparing yourself to competitors

For Your Clients:

• Instant understanding of what you offer

• Trust and credibility from first impression

• Clear expectations about the experience

• Easier decision-making about working with you

Remember, 77% of consumers prefer shopping from brands they follow on social media, and 46% of consumers will pay more for trusted brands. When your brand identity is clear, you're not just another option – you're the option.

Takeaway: Your Brand Identity Is Your Business Foundation

You've built something meaningful. Your work has the power to transform lives. But if your brand identity doesn't reflect the quality and value of what you offer, you're making it harder for the right people to find you.

You don't need a flashy brand. You need a clear one.

Your brand identity is how the world sees your business before they've experienced your service. It's the visual and verbal personality that makes you recognisable, trustworthy, and memorable. And when it's done right, it doesn't just look good – it works hard for you, attracting ideal clients and supporting business growth.

Further reading links:

• Neil Patel's "The Ultimate Guide to Online Branding"

• Neil Patel's "Where Marketing Ends, Branding Begins"

• G2 Branding Statistics (2024)

What Next?

The question isn't whether you need a strong brand identity. The question is: how much longer can you afford not to have one?

Ready to create a brand identity that truly reflects your value?

Book a discovery call and we'll have a chat about your brand and what your business website needs to stand out, be remembered, and attract clients who are absolutely ready to work with you 😁.

About Jane Hinchliffe: Your Squarespace Designer & Brand Strategist

I'm Jane, and I've been helping established business owners transform their DIY websites into professional, conversion-focused online presences for years. Based in Harrogate, Yorkshire, I work with clients across the UK 🇬🇧 and internationally.

My sweet spot? Mid-life business owners like you – coaches, educators, consultants, and creatives who've built solid businesses but whose websites haven't kept pace with their growth.

I believe your website should be your hardest-working team member, not something you dread updating or feel embarrassed sharing. That's why I combine strategic brand positioning with beautiful, functional design that actually converts visitors into clients.

Beyond full website design, I offer Squarespace Maintenance Days (perfect for ongoing updates), Pro Website Audits (strategic roadmaps without full redesign), Web Strategy sessions, and 90-minute Help Calls (focused problem-solving sessions).

Ready to stop feeling awkward about your website and start showing it off proudly? Let's chat →

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

You've been running your business for over two years now, and it’s going pretty well. But your DIY website? Well, let’s just say it’s not quite reflecting the level of service you offer.

If you're a small business owner who built your own Squarespace (or other) site when you were testing the waters, but your business has grown since then, you’ve likely hit that moment when you’re wondering:

Should I invest in professional website design, or keep managing it myself?

In this post, I'll share:

• Exactly when it's time to invest in professional web design support

• What signs to watch for

• Why making this move could be the smartest business decision you make this year

The short answer? When your website stops converting visitors into paying clients, when you're losing hours tinkering instead of working with clients, or when your brand has evolved beyond that template you chose at 2 am three years ago.

You can find my professional website design service details right here:

👉 Visit my Web Design Packages page

The Reality of DIY Website Building for Established Coaches

Let me be honest with you. I'm not anti-DIY. In fact, when you're just starting and testing whether your business idea has legs, a DIY website might make sense.

But here's what happens after you've been in business for a while...

• You've grown.

• Your services have evolved.

• You've niched down (or perhaps pivoted entirely - hello, rebrand!).

• You've developed a signature methodology.

• You know exactly who you serve and how you transform their lives.

• Your pricing has increased because you're bloody good at what you do.

And that website you cobbled together when you were "figuring things out"? It's still sitting there, looking decidedly amateur compared to the premium service you now offer.

According to research, 94% of first impressions are influenced by design. That means visitors are judging your credibility in less than 3 seconds based purely on how your website looks. Not your qualifications. Not your testimonials. Just the visual design.

- Behaviour and Information Technology journal study on first impressions of websites

The Hidden Costs of DIY Website Creation

When you created your site yourself, you probably thought you were saving money. And initially, you were. But let's talk about what DIY website building really costs established business owners:

Time investment that could be spent on revenue-generating activities.

• The average small business owner spends several weeks creating a DIY website (and that's just the initial build, doesn’t include content creation, or ongoing updates)

• Every hour you spend wrestling with Squarespace settings is an hour you're not coaching clients, creating content, or building relationships

• How much is your hourly rate? Multiply that by a ‘x’ weeks and suddenly that "free" DIY approach looks rather expensive

Opportunity cost from poor conversion rates

• Professional website design sites typically convert 3-5 times better than DIY versions

• If your site converts at 2% instead of 6%, you're literally leaving clients (and income) on the table every single day

• For coaches specifically, conversion rates on discovery calls should be around 25-50%, but that requires getting people TO book those calls in the first place

The confidence drain

• You know your site doesn't represent you well, and that affects how you talk about your business

• You avoid sending people to your website or feel the need to apologise for it (“I know it needs updating, but…”)

• You're embarrassed to share your URL in networking or social situations

SEO challenges that keep you invisible

• Google's algorithm rewards fast-loading, mobile-optimised, strategically structured websites

• DIY sites often lack proper SEO fundamentals because you don't know what you don't know

• Research shows that 70-80% of users ignore paid ads and focus on organic search results, so if your SEO is rubbish, you're virtually invisible

I'll give you a scenario from my own experience. I worked with a life coach named Sarah (not her real name). She'd been using a DIY site for three years. Her business was doing ok – she was booked with 1:1 clients – but she wanted to launch a new premium service.

The problem? Her website appeared like she’d just started. The messaging was vague ("I help people live their best life"). The photography was meh and had nothing to do with her or her clients. The booking process required potential clients to email her and wait for a response.

After we redesigned her site with clear positioning, professional brand photography, and an integrated booking system, her discovery call requests increased. More importantly, the quality of enquiries improved dramatically because her messaging actually spoke to her ideal client.

That's not magic. That's strategic and professional website design!

When DIY Makes Sense (And When It Absolutely Doesn't)

Let's be clear about something: I'm not suggesting everyone needs a professional website design project from day one. There are absolutely times when DIY is the right choice.

When DIY Website Building Might Make Sense:

1. You're testing a business idea

• You're not sure if this business will stick around

• You want to validate your offer before investing heavily

• You need something online quickly to start getting feedback

2. You're genuinely early in business (under 1-2 years)

• Your services are still evolving

• You're working out your niche and ideal client

• You don't have much content or social proof yet

• Your budget genuinely doesn't stretch to professional design

3. You actually enjoy the technical side

• You find website building relaxing and creative (rare, but it happens!)

• You have the time to learn and implement properly

• You're committed to ongoing education about design and UX best practices

4. You have simple needs

• You literally just need a digital business card with contact information

• You're running a hobby, not a business

• You're not relying on your website to generate leads or sales

When You've Outgrown DIY (Red Flags You Can't Ignore):

Your website isn't converting visitors into clients

• You're getting traffic but no enquiries

• People tell you they visited your site, but then went quiet

• Your booking calendar isn't filling despite decent social media engagement

• You've noticed competitors with professional sites are booking clients you're not

You've wasted hours (or days) trying to "fix" something

• You've spent entire weekends trying to make one section look right

• You've watched countless YouTube tutorials, but still can't achieve what you want

• You feel frustrated every time you need to update your site

• You've muttered/sworn, "This shouldn't be this difficult", more than once

• You need Squarespace help more often than you’d like to admit

Your brand has evolved, but your website hasn't

• You've refined your niche, but your messaging is still generic

• Your pricing has increased significantly, but your site looks budget

• You've developed a signature framework, but haven't communicated it effectively

• You have professional photography, but don't know how to implement it well

You're launching something new and need it to succeed

• You're introducing a group programme, course, or membership

• You're raising your prices and need to justify the investment

• You're repositioning yourself in the market

• You want to be seen as the expert you've become

You're losing potential clients to professional-looking competitors

• You've noticed prospects/leads going with competitors who have slicker websites

• You feel embarrassed about your site compared to your peers in your industry

• You avoid networking because you don't want to share your URL

• You preface your website link with "I know it needs updating, but..."

Mobile experience is terrible

• 40% of users will abandon a website if it's not mobile-friendly

• Your site might look acceptable on your desktop, but be completely unusable on phones

• DIY builders often create mobile nightmares without you realising it

What Professional Website Design Actually Gives You

Right, so you've recognised yourself in those red flags. What exactly do you get when you work with me, a professional Squarespace designer that you can't achieve on your own?

Strategic Brand Positioning (Not Just Pretty Pictures)

As a professional website designer, I don’t just make things look nice; I also ensure that they function properly. Also, I always start with a strategy:

• Who exactly are you helping? (And I mean specifically – not "women who want to feel better")

• What transformation do you provide?

• How do you want clients to feel when they first visit your site?

• What objections prevent people from booking, and how do we address them?

• What's the clearest path from visitor to booked call?

This is a brand strategy combined with website psychology. It's essential to understand that your website is a sales tool, not just an online brochure.

Conversion-Focused Design Structure

I understand user behaviour:

• Where people's eyes naturally go on a page (F-pattern, Z-pattern)

• How to create a clear visual hierarchy so that important information gets seen

• Strategic placement of calls-to-action that feel natural, not pushy

• How to reduce cognitive load so visitors aren't overwhelmed

• Accessibility features that make your site usable for everyone

Features you get:

• Strategic homepage that clearly communicates what you do and who you help

• Services pages that sell your offerings (not just list them)

• About page that builds trust and connection

• Clear paths to booking that reduce friction

• Mobile-responsive design that actually works (not just technically responsive but properly usable)

Benefits you experience:

• Higher conversion rates (more visitors actually booking calls)

• Better quality enquiries (people who are the right fit)

• Less time explaining what you do because your site does it for you

• Increased confidence in sharing your URL

• Professional credibility that justifies your pricing

Transformation you'll see:

• Your website becomes your hardest-working team member

• You stop apologising for your online presence

• Discovery calls feel easier because people already understand your value

• Your business feels aligned – finally, your website matches the quality you deliver

Technical Excellence and SEO Foundation

This is where DIY sites really fall short. I implement:

• Proper site structure and navigation

• Optimised images that load quickly without sacrificing quality

• SEO-friendly URLs, meta descriptions, and alt text

• Schema markup for better search visibility (if requested as a premium)

• Strategic internal linking

• Accessibility features (proper heading structure, colour contrast)

• Integration with necessary business tools (scheduling, email marketing, analytics)

And if you need specific Squarespace 7.1 features or plugins and extensions, I know exactly how to implement them strategically.

Time Saved and Stress Eliminated

Let's talk about something precious: your time and mental energy.

When you hire me, you get:

• A defined timeline (typically 2-4 weeks from start to launch, excluding content prep)

• Someone else is handling the technical headaches

• Expert guidance on content and messaging

• Quality assurance testing before launch

• Training on how to update your site yourself after launch

• Ongoing support options (like my Squarespace Maintenance Day or 90-minute help calls)

What you do instead:

• Focus on serving your existing clients brilliantly

• Create content that attracts your ideal audience

• Build strategic partnerships

• Actually, take that weekend off without guilt

Common Objections (And Why They Don't Hold Up)

Let me address the concerns heard from established business owners who are hesitating to invest in professional website design:

"But I've already spent so much time on my DIY site"

I understand this completely. The sunk cost fallacy is real. But think about it this way: would you rather spend another year (or three) with a site that's not working, or make a change now and start seeing results?

Those hours you've already invested aren't wasted – you learned what you needed at that stage of business. But you've outgrown it. And that's brilliant! It means your business is succeeding.

"I'm worried I'll lose control of my website"

This is where choosing the right designer matters. Look for someone who:

• Works on platforms you can manage yourself (like Squarespace)

• Provides training on updates

• Offers ongoing support options

• Builds in a way that's intuitive for you to maintain

With me, you own your website completely. I train you to make updates yourself and offer support when you need it through Squarespace Maintenance Days or quick help calls.

"What if I need to change things later?"

Good design is flexible. Your website should evolve as your business does. I create a foundation that's easy to update and adapt.

I also offer retainer or VIP day options for future updates. You don't need to rebuild from scratch every time you add a service or shift your messaging.

"I don't have time for a website project right now"

I get it. You're busy helping clients. But you know what? Your website is either actively promoting your business or quietly holding it back. There's no neutral.

And working with me actually saves you time compared to continuing to tinker with DIY. Most projects take 4-8 weeks, and your involvement is mainly at the beginning (strategy and content) and end (feedback and approval).

Plus, think about all the time you'll save AFTER launch when people actually understand what you do and book calls without lengthy back-and-forth.

Why This Matters for Your Business Right Now

You didn't build your coaching business over the past 2+ years just to have it held back by an inadequate website. You've put in the work. You've served your clients brilliantly. You've refined your methodology. You've earned your reputation.

Your website should reflect that dedication and expertise. It should work as hard as you do.

So, you can absolutely continue with your DIY site. Many business owners do. But if you're serious about scaling your business, filling your calendar with ideal clients, and positioning yourself as the expert you've become, your website needs to match your ambition.

The difference between a DIY site and a strategically designed professional website design isn't just aesthetics. It's:

• Conversion rates that put money in your bank account

• Credibility that justifies your premium pricing

• Time saved not tinkering with technical issues

• Confidence to share your URL without hesitation

• A foundation for growth rather than a barrier to it

Think about this: A year from now, you'll wish you'd made this change today. You'll look back at all the potential clients who visited your site and left. All the hours you spent frustrated with Squarespace. All the opportunities lost to competitors with better websites.

Or you can make a different choice right now.

Your Next Steps:

If you're a coach, educator, consultant, or creative who's ready for a professional website design to finally match the quality you provide, here's what to do:

Option 1: Book a Discovery Call

Let's have an honest conversation about your website, your business goals, and whether we're the right fit to work together. No pressure, just clarity. Book your free discovery call here.

Option 2: Start with a Pro Website Audit

Not ready for a full redesign? Get professional eyes on your current site with my Pro Website Audit with Strategy. You'll receive a comprehensive review and strategic roadmap for exactly what needs improving and how to prioritise changes.

Option 3: Quick Win with a 90-Minute Squarespace Help Call

Have specific issues or questions? Book a focused 90-minute session where we tackle your most pressing website challenges together.

Don't let another year go by with a website that's not serving your business. You've worked too hard to let a DIY site hold you back.

Your future clients are searching for someone exactly like you. Make sure they can find you – and that when they do, they're impressed enough to take the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a Squarespace professional website design project typically take?

A: Most Squarespace projects take 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to launch. This includes a strategy session, 2-week web build, content integration, revisions, and training. VIP Day intensives can be completed in 1-2 weeks. The timeline depends on project complexity and how quickly you can provide feedback and content.

Q: Can I update my website myself after it's professionally designed?

A: Absolutely! That's one of the major benefits of Squarespace. After your site is designed, you'll receive training on how to make updates yourself. You'll be able to add blog posts, update testimonials, change service descriptions, and make other content updates easily. For more complex changes, you can book discounted support sessions.

Q: What if I don't have professional photography?

A: Many business owners don't have professional photography when we start. I can guide you on DIY photography options, recommend photographers, or work with high-quality stock images initially. Professional brand photography is ideal and worth investing in separately, but it's not required before we begin your website project.

Q: Will my new website work on mobile phones?

A: Yes! All professional Squarespace designs are mobile-responsive, meaning I will edit the content so that it will adjust to look great on phones and desktop computers. In fact, mobile optimisation is a key part of the design process since over half of website traffic typically comes from mobile devices.

Q: How do I know if I need a complete redesign or just improvements to my current site?

A: We can chat about this on your discovery call, or book a web strategy session to help determine. Alternatively, if your site has good bones but needs strategic improvements, we can often make a significant impact through a website maintenance session. If the foundation isn't strong or your brand has completely evolved, a rebrand makes more sense. Book a discovery call and we'll assess together.

Q: What happens if my business changes after my website is designed?

A: Your website should be flexible enough to evolve with your business. That's why strategic design focuses on structure and systems, not just aesthetics. You can update content yourself as your business evolves, and I offer maintenance days for more significant changes, like adding new services or restructuring pages.

Q: Do you only work with Squarespace or other platforms, too?

A: I specialise in Squarespace because it's the perfect platform for established service-based businesses like coaches, consultants, and educators. It's powerful enough for professional websites but user-friendly enough for you to manage yourself. My Pro Website Audit with Strategy works for any platform, though, if you're on WordPress, Wix, Showit, or others.

Q: What's included in your pricing? Are there hidden costs?

A: My pricing is transparent and covers everything needed for a complete website: strategy, design, content integration, SEO basics, mobile optimisation, and training. The main additional costs you might encounter are: domain and hosting fees (Squarespace subscription), professional photography, logo design, if needed, and copywriting if you want that as an add-on. I outline all costs clearly before we begin.

Q: How much content do I need to prepare before we start?

A: You don't need everything written perfectly! Part of my process includes content guidance and structure. You'll need to gather information about your services, prepare testimonials, and provide any specific details about your methodology. I'll guide you through what's needed and when. Many clients find the content process actually helps them clarify their messaging. All content is due before the 2-week web build.

Q: What if I'm not happy with the design?

A: My process includes regular check-ins and revision rounds specifically to avoid this. You'll see the homepage before proceeding with the remaining pages of your site, not just at the end. Clear communication throughout ensures the final design reflects your vision and serves your business goals. I'm not happy unless you're delighted!

About Jane Hinchliffe: Your Squarespace Designer & Brand Strategist

I'm Jane, and I've been helping established business owners transform their DIY websites into professional, conversion-focused online presences for years. Based in Harrogate, Yorkshire, I work with clients across the UK 🇬🇧 and internationally.

My sweet spot? Mid-life business owners like you – coaches, educators, consultants, and creatives who've built solid businesses but whose websites haven't kept pace with their growth.

I believe your website should be your hardest-working team member, not something you dread updating or feel embarrassed sharing. That's why I combine strategic brand positioning with beautiful, functional design that actually converts visitors into clients.

Beyond full website design, I offer Squarespace Maintenance Days (perfect for ongoing updates), Pro Website Audits (strategic roadmaps without full redesign), Web Strategy sessions, and 90-minute Help Calls (focused problem-solving sessions).

Ready to stop feeling awkward about your website and start showing it off proudly? Let's chat →

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

In this post, I’ll guide you through my Favourite Small Business Software ☕️

If you’re a purposeful small business owner who hasn’t got the time (or let’s face it, the patience) to test a hundred apps or software, this guide is your shortcut, and with discounts!

I’ll walk you through some tools that either I use or I recommend to web design clients — and why they might be a great fit for your business. Think:

• website management

• client onboarding

• automations

• video

• design and legal bits

— everything that keeps my business running smoothly.

The goal? To help you ditch the overwhelm, choose tools that work together beautifully, and spend more time on the work you actually love.

You can find all the links and full tool list right here:

👉 Visit my Business Tools page

Please note that I may receive a small commission if you use links on this page or my Business Tools page — at no extra cost to you.*

Why your tools matter (and what happens when they don’t)

Let’s be honest — juggling too many systems is like trying to herd cats! When your tools don’t talk to each other, things slip through the cracks: client forms go missing, emails get lost, projects stall. On the other hand, no tools can also be a disaster.

The fix is simpler than you think. Choose a few well-designed tools that do the heavy lifting — so your systems and processes feel calm, not chaotic.

My favourite, trusted tools that I either use myself or recommend to clients

Here’s what’s in my digital toolkit. You’ll find them all listed (with links) on my Business Tools page, with other suggestions.

🖥 Website & hosting

1. Squarespace*

Duh, I would say Squarespace, but seriously, it’s my go-to platform for professional, beautiful sites that clients can actually edit themselves. Simple, secure and stylish.

Use my code GIMME10 to save 10% off your first year of web hosting. If we work together, you get 20% off!

💌 Client experience & project flow

2. Kitchen.co*

My all-in-one client portal and project management space. Keeps conversations, invoices and tasks tidy (and it looks gorgeous). I use this with my clients and have received great feedback, designed to optimise communication. Also, excellent support!

Pay 1x & never again!

3. Bloom.io*

An all-in-one CRM and booking system that keeps all client details in one place — from discovery calls to offboarding. I use this for my leads, and clients love it.

You'll get 50% off for the first 12 months when you upgrade.

4. Notion

My behind-the-scenes brain. The all-in-one workspace for you & your team. I use it for my behind-the-scenes business tasks & for personal use. An invaluable tool for my business, & no code!

🧾 Forms, payments & e-courses

5. Tally Forms*

Sleek, branded forms that feel like part of your website — not an afterthought. Build beautiful, yet powerful forms that also look great (I use them), with their great free plan!

50% off for 3 months on any plan!

6. ThriveCart*

ThriveCart is a leading e-Commerce platform that allows users to build/monetise courses and sell digital/physical products online. No code necessary - click the link! Ideal for course creators or product sales. Integrates beautifully with your existing site.

No code necessary, one-off fee - click the link!

⚙️ Automation, content & support tools

7. Zapier

The “set it and forget it” link between your tools. You can automate everything from form responses to CRM updates.

8. Loom

Quick screen-share videos to guide clients — friendly, visual and personal.

9. Kit (formerly ConvertKit)*

Email isn't just a marketing channel—it's your business foundation. Kit helps you manage email campaigns, grow subscriber lists, & sell products.

Try Kit for Free!

10. Canva

My fast design companion for branded graphics and templates.

11. Cal.com*

Easy-to-set-up scheduling platform that allows others to schedule meetings with you based on your availability. Try for free.

New users get 20% off for 12 months!

🔐 Legal, security & performance

12. Termageddon*

Automatically updates your website policies (GDPR, privacy, cookies, etc.) — a total time-saver and legal lifesaver.

Comprehensive, auto-updating website policy generator tool - than any other solution out there. I use and recommend, including great support.

Use the code HINCHLIFFE for 10% off your first annual payment.

13. SEOSpace*

My fave easy-to-use, jargon-free, DIY-friendly SEO tool for Squarespace. I use this & recommend it for clients. No code required. Start for free!

14. TinyPNG / TinyJPG

Compress images without losing quality. Faster sites = happier visitors and better Google ranking.

The transformation: from scattered to streamlined

I’ve noticed that when we start using the right tools, everything changes. For instance…

• The coach who was losing leads due to not having a robust system now has more clients converting due to Bloom.io, a solid CRM

• The creative studio that kept missing client files? Now every project lives neatly in Kitchen.co, with reminders.

• The consultant who panicked over legal compliance? Termageddon updates her policies automatically.

You don’t need every app — just a few that do the right jobs well.

👉 See the full list: My Business Tools page

Accessibility & simplicity tips

Even the best tools can’t fix a messy user experience. A few pro tips:

• Always use alt text on your images — it helps with accessibility and SEO.

• Keep text readable (no long walls of words).

• Compress your images (TinyPNG again — it’s magic).

• Never autoplay videos — give users control.

Good UX = happy visitors = more trust.

Expert insight (SEO & AI ready)

Search engines — and AI — love well-structured websites. Make sure your toolkit works with, not against, your visibility goals:

• Use headings (H1, H2, etc.) so Google can read your content properly.

• Add FAQs for quick answers and AI indexing.

• Keep your site fast — Google ranks faster pages higher.

And remember: your website is your home base. You own it — not an algorithm.

FAQs

• Which tools save the most time?

  Start with a CRM (Bloom.io*), a client portal (Kitchen.co*), and automation (Zapier). Together, they remove a lot of admin.

• Do I need loads of software?

  No. In fact, too many tools create clutter. Start with just 3–5 key ones.

• Do they work with Squarespace?

  Yes — the tools on my list either complement, embed, or connect easily.

🌟 The Takeaway.

You don’t need a complicated system to look professional. You just need the right small business software — the ones that make you look polished and feel calm behind the scenes.

I’ve curated my favourite tools, tested and trusted by me and my clients. I’ve also shared products that I either own or are on my wish list, including: Tech and Creative Set Up, Working Well From Home, and Biz Books to Inspire and Learn From. Click the link to find the right fit for your business.

👉 Explore My Business Tools

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

You’ve poured your heart, soul and budget into a beautiful Squarespace website. It’s your brand, your presence, your first impression. But here’s the truth: without regular website maintenance, even the best-designed site will start to slow down, glitch, or lose visibility.

Just like your car needs a service and your home needs upkeep, your website requires ongoing care too — whether you call it site upkeep, web care, or maintenance.

What happens after launch is what really determines whether your site remains a thriving business asset or turns into a liability.

In this post, I’ll guide you through:

• The costs (hidden and obvious) of neglecting web maintenance and upkeep

• Real risks for small business owners

• How a regular maintenance strategy (aka a VIP web care day) saves you money, stress and reputation

• A roadmap to set up site maintenance (Squarespace site care, site support) that’s accessible, not overwhelming

Why Website Maintenance Isn’t Optional

Let’s start with what we mean by web maintenance (or site upkeep):

• Regular tasks: updating content, fixing broken links, and refreshing images

• Technical tasks: security patches, backups, performance optimisation (thankfully, security is taken care of with Squarespace)

• Functional checks: forms, integrations, website tools

• SEO and accessibility checks: optimising content, metadata, mobile responsiveness, browser compatibility

According to Mailchimp, web care maintenance includes tasks like keeping content fresh, ensuring site security, and monitoring performance. (Mailchimp)

FlowMatters puts it well: your website needs constant care to stay healthy, support traffic growth and reinforce SEO. (Flowmatters)

Without this ongoing care, your fabulous website can turn into a glitchy, slow, perhaps broken shopfront.

The True Cost of Neglect (What’s at Stake)

When we talk about “costs”, we’re not just talking pounds out of pocket. Here’s what you risk.

Lost revenue, leads and opportunity

Even a few minutes of downtime or broken functionality can cost you leads or clients you’ll never get back.

• Some studies estimate that average downtime can cost $5,600 per minute for larger organisations. (Convergine Corp.) wowza!

• In broader terms, the Oxford Economics–cited data puts downtime at $9,000 per minute / $540,000 per hour for many firms. (TechTarget) double wowza!

Even if your site isn’t e-commerce, every visitor you fail to convert is a missed chance, especially for consultants, coaches or personal brands whose “product” is trust, content or exposure.

2. Damage to brand reputation & trust

Visitors expect your site to work, end of.

A broken page, slow loading, an error message, or design glitches look pretty amateurish. It undermines your authority. And if it happens when someone is on the verge of working with you? That could be, thanks, but no thanks.

Get my Free resource: Is Your Website Holding You Back?

3. SEO penalty & traffic loss

Search engines really like sites that are fast, secure, stable, updated and free of errors. Neglected sites are crawled less often, can be inundated with 404s and duplicate content issues, or flagged for poor user experience.

Result: Your rankings can slip, I’m sorry to say.

4. Security risk & costly recovery

Outdated software, unchecked integrations or expired SSL certificates (no need to worry on this score with Squarespace), are open doors to hackers (very unlikely with a Squarespace site, not including third-party integrations).

Unfortunately, breaches cost in data cleanup, legal risk, downtime, and loss of trust.

The hidden recovery, remediation, legal and reputational costs often dwarf the cost of preventive upkeep. (Contentful)

5. Operational drag & staff time

When your site misbehaves, every fix takes your attention — or you have to pay someone (often at higher rates) to troubleshoot. That’s time stolen from your core business.

6. Compounded issues

Broken links that accumulate, outdated content that stagnates, integrations that gradually fail — small issues often compound into a major rebuild or migration if left unchecked.

Here’s a relevant stat: Over 90% of SME and large enterprises report that hourly downtime exceeds $300,000 in cost. (Trilio)

And while your small creative business won’t face six-figure downtime per hour (thank goodness), the principle holds: costs scale with audience, conversion and dependence on your site.

How to Avoid the Web Maintenance Trap (Your Path to Peace of Mind)

Now for the good news: You can protect your website — and your sanity — with a simple, sustainable maintenance plan. Here’s how I approach it (and how you can too):

1. Set a rhythm: Weekly, Monthly, Quarterly, Seasonally

Frequency Tasks & Focus

Weekly: Check for design glitches, broken links, forms, and sign-ups; monitor uptime or alerts. Catch issues early before they grow.

Monthly: Security patches and updates, backup verification, speed tests, mobile checks, SEO audit.

Keep your site technically sound, Quarterly (or seasonal): Content refresh, redirect audits, user experience review, integration reviews, and keep user experience strong.

Some tasks may be possible to handle via tools or automation, but human oversight (design, QA, and content updates) is essential to check for.

2. Use monitoring & alerts

Set up Notion, Asana to remind you to check your site, or automated alerts, so you’re notified immediately if your site goes offline.

Also monitor performance metrics (page load, core web vitals).

3. Make backups non-negotiable

Automated, versioned backups are your safety net. If ever things go wrong — hacking, human error, malicious code — you can restore quickly with minimal damage.

4. Prioritise updates & compatibility

When Squarespace (or any platform) releases updates or when third-party integrations evolve, staying current reduces conflicts. Compatibility issues are a common source of broken layouts or missing functions.

5. Document & prioritise tasks

I always recommend keeping a “website to-do/wishlist/bug list” that you or your web partner refer to. When quiet moments come, tick off small improvements. Don’t wait until “everything is broken” to act.

6. Plan a periodic review / audit

Every 6–12 months, step back and review your site’s usability, accessibility, and SEO health with a web audit service. This is a brilliant chance to refine, streamline, and prune.

Further reading: Why Your Small Business Needs a Professional Website Audit — helpful before investing in maintenance.

How My Squarespace Web Maintenance (VIP Care Day) Fixes That

Ok, here’s how my Web Maintenance / VIP Care Day (based in Harrogate, UK, but working globally) tackles those risks:

• One dedicated day, or two half days (approx 8 hours) to focus entirely on your site (no distractions).

• You send me your priorities (content updates, tweaks, fixes, integrations) in advance so we hit the ground running.

• I handle content updates, design tweaks, functional fixes, SEO optimisations, broken-link fixes, integration checks, troubleshooting, and more.

• After the day, you get a summary of what was done and post-day support for any small follow-ups.

• It’s not a full redesign; it’s for improvements, fixes, updates, and maintenance tasks that can be scoped.

• Price: £698 (option for two instalments)

In short: one focused, prepped day = months of website stress averted.

If your website needs transformation, we’ll talk about a full redesign (which I also offer). But if what you need is upkeep, polish, repair — this is perfect.

A Quick Note (Because I Know What It’s Like)

As someone based near Harrogate, Yorkshire, and speaking to midlife creative business owners, when I say “I get it”, I really do. There are only so many hours in your day, only so many creative decisions you can make before your brain feels frazzled. Your website shouldn’t add to that overwhelm; it should be working quietly (but diligently), in the background for you.

Remember: neglecting your website is like letting your shopfront crumble while you’re outdoors working with clients. You’d never neglect your studio/office or your branding — your site deserves the same loving care.

🌟 Tired of living with website niggles, broken pages, or that uneasy feeling that "something's wrong, but I don’t know what": let’s chat.

Book a free 15-minute discovery call with me. We’ll map out exactly what your website needs (fixes, care, growth) and see whether a VIP Care Day or ongoing site maintenance plan is right for you.

If you like, I can also send you a simple “Website Health Checklist” PDF so you can check now whether your site is safe or at risk.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

You’ve probably heard about AI everywhere lately — chatbots, content generators… the list goes on.

But here’s the point: AI isn’t just a buzzword for tech enthusiasts. It helps to optimise your website for AI search.

It’s changing the way Google finds, ranks, and recommends websites to real people — including your ideal clients. In fact, I’m experiencing more and more lead referrals via ChatGPT (3 just in the last few weeks!).

So, I’d recommend optimising your website for AI search if you haven’t already, or you could be missing out on the very audience you most want to reach.

The good news? If you use Squarespace, you can design a site that’s both beautiful for humans and smart for AI. Here’s how.

1. Make your Squarespace Site Visible to Crawlers

To do this, go to Settings > Website > Crawlers and check the boxes that you see below.

2. Make Your Content Clear and Structured

AI tools, including search engines, “read” websites differently than humans. They scan headings, lists, and structured content to understand what your site is about.

Tips for Squarespace:

• Use clear H1, H2, and H3 headings to organise your pages.

• Aim for clean URLs.

• Include bulleted lists for key points — it helps both readers and AI scan your content.

• Keep paragraphs short and purposeful.

When you work with me, part of my Web Design Packages includes optimising headings, copy structure, and page layouts to ensure your site works for both humans and AI. I’d also recommend using SEOSpace* (affiliate link, but a tool that I use and genuinely rate).

3. Optimise Your Images

Squarespace makes it easy to showcase gorgeous visuals, but AI and Google need more than just pretty pictures. They need context.

• Use descriptive file names (e.g., mindful-dietitian-consultation.jpg).

• Add alt text that explains what’s happening in the image, and include your brand name, where relevant.

• Keep file sizes below 500 KB and ideally, below 250 KB. Large files slow your site down, which affects rankings.

In my SEO-ready web designs, I take care of image optimisation, so your website is fast, functional, and discoverable.

When I talk about optimising your site for AI and search, it can feel like a lot to keep track of. If you’re not sure where to begin, a professional website audit is a great first step. It’s like giving your site a health check — so you know exactly what’s working, what’s not, and where AI optimisation fits in.

4. Focus on Keywords That Match Intent

AI doesn’t just read words; it interprets intent. Your website needs to tell AI exactly who you help and how.

• Think beyond “wedding photographer” or “yoga teacher.” Use longer phrases like “authentic wedding photography” or “cheerful North Yorkshire wedding photographer.”

• Sprinkle these phrases naturally across headings, page copy (the words for your website), and image alt text.

If you haven’t done this before, don’t worry — it’s part of my Full Brand Transformation, Aligned and Starter website packages. I help you uncover the right keywords and weave them seamlessly into your site content.

Of course, AI-friendly optimisation isn’t just about headings and keywords — your words need to sound like you. If you’d like some inspiration for writing web copy that connects with your audience (while still making Google and AI happy), take a look at my guide to authentic web copy.

5. Ensure Fast Loading Times

AI and Google favour websites that load quickly. Squarespace is generally fast, but there are things that can slow it down: heavy images, unnecessary code, and multiple embedded apps.

Quick fixes:

• Use Image Compressor, TinyJPG, or better still, opt for a WEBP file via Picflow.

• Limit third-party widgets and scripts.

• When adding video, upload a thumbnail image.

I always include speed optimisation in my Squarespace VIP Maintenance Days, so your site continues to perform at its best long after launch.

6. Make Your Site Mobile-Friendly

Over 60% of all web traffic comes from mobile devices. AI recognises mobile responsiveness as a major ranking factor. Squarespace makes this easy with responsive templates, but make sure you:

• Check layouts before publishing.

• Keep buttons large enough to tap.

• Avoid tiny text that AI might misinterpret.

7. Keep Content Fresh and Valuable

AI loves sites that are updated regularly and provide real value. Even small updates — like adding a blog post, new service page, or FAQ — signal that your site is active.

I often advise clients to plan quarterly content updates. For those who want support, my 90-min Web Strategy / Squarespace Help sessions can help you map out updates that improve both visibility and engagement.

AI search engines pay attention to how people interact with your website. That’s why smoothing out every click, button, and page journey matters. If you’d like more insight into creating a seamless user experience, I’ve shared some simple ways in this post on improving customer touchpoints.

Why AI Optimisation Matters

One of the myths about AI optimisation is that it makes websites feel robotic. In truth, it should highlight your uniqueness, not hide it. If you want to explore this further, I’ve shared five simple ways to show your brand personality on your website — a perfect companion to AI-friendly design.

***

If you haven’t thought about AI yet, now is the time. Whether you’re creating your first website or redesigning an existing one, optimising your website for AI search improves:

• Search engine visibility

• Engagement with your ideal clients

• The chance your content gets picked up by AI tools, like chat assistants or AI-powered directories

A well-structured, AI-ready website doesn’t just look good — it works harder for your business.

🌟 Ready to Optimise Your Website for AI Search?

Whether you’re just getting started or need a full redesign, my Squarespace Web Design Packages are designed to create beautiful, functional, and AI-friendly websites that attract your dream clients. From initial brand strategy calls to full SEO optimisation, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Let’s create a website that isn’t just a pretty face online — one that works smart, performs fast, and helps your business grow.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist.

You've put your heart and soul into building your business. You've invested time and money in a website that, we hope, looks the part. But something's not quite right, is it?

Perhaps you're attracting website visitors, but they're not converting into enquiries from your ideal clients/customers.

Maybe you've got a nagging feeling that your site isn't looking or working as hard as it should be for your business. If any of this sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone. This is where my Website Audit With Strategy offering comes in.

I believe that most small business websites have incredible potential that's not being realised. The difference between a website that ‘just’ exists and one that actively grows your business often comes down to the nitty-gritty details. Details that are difficult to spot when you're too close to your work.

That's precisely where a professional website health review comes in.

What Exactly Is a Web Tune-Up (And Why It's Not What You Think)

When most people hear "web audit," they imagine a boring, technical report full of jargon that requires a computer science degree to understand. But that's not what we're talking about here.

A proper website review is like having a trusted friend who happens to be a website expert take a thorough look at your site with fresh eyes. It's about understanding not just what's technically wrong, but what's stopping your ideal clients from taking action when they land on your pages.

As one of my recent clients, Richard, put it:

A professional audit examines everything from your homepage messaging to whether your call-to-action buttons are compelling people to click. It's a strategy and technical analysis wrapped up in one actionable package.

The Hidden Costs of an Underperforming Website

Before we get into the benefits of a website checkup, let's talk about what an underperforming website is actually costing you. Because whilst you might think you're saving money by not investing in professional help, the opposite is likely true.

Remember, small improvements, like clearer messaging, visual branding tweaks, better-placed contact buttons, or a more compelling homepage, etc., can make a huge difference in how many people get in touch. Research consistently shows that strategic website improvements lead to more enquiries and bookings, which means you're getting better results from the marketing efforts you're already making.

For most small businesses, even tiny improvements can translate to additional revenue over a year. Who doesn’t want that! When you look at it that way, a professional audit isn't a cost, it's an investment that pays for itself.

What Makes a Website Audit Truly Valuable

Not all website assessments are created equal. There's no clear standard for audit pricing, and unfortunately, many audits are simply packed with screenshots and a zilch strategy. What you need is an audit that goes beyond pointing out problems to solving them.

Here's what makes a website review with strategy genuinely valuable for your business:

• Fresh Expert Eyes on Your Business: When you've been staring at your website for months or years, you develop a kind of tunnel vision. You know what you meant to say, so you assume visitors will understand it too. A professional auditor brings objectivity and can immediately spot where your messaging might be unclear or where visitors are likely to get confused.

• User Experience Focus: Your audit should examine how real people interact with your website.

  • Are they finding what they need quickly?

  • Is your navigation intuitive?

  • Can they easily contact you or make a purchase?

  These user experience elements often have the biggest impact on conversions.

• Strategic Messaging Review: It's not enough to have a beautiful website if the words don't connect with your ideal clients. A good audit will examine whether your messaging, aka your words, clearly communicates your value and speaks directly to the challenges your clients face.

• Technical Health Check: Whilst strategy is crucial, technical issues can completely derail your website's performance. Slow loading times, broken links, and mobile responsiveness issues can send potential clients running before they even see what you offer.

• Actionable Recommendations: This is where many audits fall short. You don't need a 50-page report that leaves you feeling overwhelmed. What you need are clear, prioritised recommendations that you can implement—or delegate to your team.

The Real-World Impact: What My Clients Experience

Let me share what typically happens when small business owners invest in a professional website audit and strategy session.

Take Emma, a mindset coach who came to me feeling frustrated with her website's performance.

Or Claire, who told me:

The common thread? These business owners went from feeling stuck and uncertain to having a clear roadmap for improvement. They moved from websites that felt meh to websites they were genuinely excited to share.

What Should Your Website Assessment Include?

If you're considering investing in a pro website health check, here's what you should expect to receive:

• Deep-Dive Page Analysis: Your key pages (homepage, about page, services pages, contact page) should be examined in detail for user experience, messaging clarity, and conversion optimisation opportunities.

• Overall Site Architecture Review:

  • How does your site work as a whole?

  • Is the navigation logical?

  • Does the user journey make sense?

  • Are there missed opportunities to guide visitors towards taking action?

• SEO and Visibility Assessment: Are your pages optimised for search engines? Regular website auditing can help identify and fix any issues, ensuring that your website runs smoothly and efficiently at all times. This includes checking page titles, meta descriptions, keyword usage, and content structure.

• Technical Performance Check:

  • Page speed

  • Mobile responsiveness

  • Accessibility

  • Security

  These are all crucial factors that affect both user experience and search engine rankings.

• Conversion Optimisation Opportunities:

  • Where might visitors be dropping off?

  • What might be preventing them from taking action?

  Your audit should identify specific improvements to boost conversions.

• Clear Action Plan: You should walk away with a prioritised list of improvements, so you know exactly what to tackle first for maximum impact.

• Strategic Consultation: The best audits include time to discuss findings and map out next steps based on your specific business goals and resources.

Why Small Business Owners Choose Professional Audits

You might be wondering whether you could do this yourself. After all, there are plenty of free tools available online.

The truth is, automated tools can catch some technical issues, but they can't understand your business strategy or evaluate whether your messaging resonates with your ideal clients. They can't prioritise recommendations based on your specific goals and constraints.

As one small business owner recently shared:

My pro audits with strategy provide context and personalised guidance that you simply can't get from automated tools.

What Happens After Your Audit?

The best part about a website tune-up isn't just identifying problems—it's having a clear path forward.

Most of my clients find that they can implement many improvements themselves, particularly content and messaging changes. For technical updates or more complex modifications, they may work with their existing web designer/developer or book additional support.

The key is having a prioritised action plan that helps you focus on changes that will have the biggest impact first, rather than trying to fix everything at once and feeling overwhelmed.

Making the Investment Decision

If your website isn't converting visitors into clients at the rate you'd like, or if you've got that nagging feeling that something's not quite right but can't pinpoint what it is, a professional audit could be exactly what you need. On the other hand, if you need specific Squarespace help, that’s available too.

At £650 for a comprehensive audit and strategy session, it's an investment that typically pays for itself within weeks through improved conversion rates and client enquiries.

Consider this: if your audit leads to just one additional client booking per month, it's likely to cover the cost and deliver a significant return on investment.

Ready to Transform Your Website?

Your website should be one of your hardest-working business assets, not a source of mega frustration. If you're ready to turn website confusion into clarity and start seeing real results from your online presence, it might be an ideal time to get those fresh expert eyes on your site.

What's included in a comprehensive Website Audit & Strategy:

• Detailed analysis of up to 5 key pages (any platform, including Squarespace)

• Personalised walk-through video recording of your overall website and technical health review

• SEO and visibility assessment

• Conversion optimisation opportunities

• Personalised Website Action Plan (PDF)

• 1-hour strategy consultation

• One week of email support for follow-up questions

The investment is £650, and you'll have everything you need to make informed decisions about your website's future.

🌟 Don't let another month go by wondering why your website isn't working harder for your business. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective and a clear action plan to unlock your site's true potential.

Ready to get started? Click the link below ⬇️ to secure your audit slot and take the first step towards a website that truly works for your business.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Is Your Website Holding You Back? A brand identity checklist

You’ve been in business for a while now. You’ve built something meaningful, worked with wonderful clients or customers, and grown in confidence and clarity. But lately… something feels out of sync.

Get your accompanying free Brand Identity Instant Download below…

Perhaps your brand identity — the visual and strategic essence of how your business shows up — hasn’t kept pace with your growth.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone — and it might be time for a thoughtful brand refresh.

Here are 5 signs to look out for below…

Get Your Free Brand Identity Checklist

Sign up below ⬇️ for your 5-page instant download, including a checklist, a bonus tip, and journal prompts.

1. You’ve Outgrown Your Original Look and Feel

What once felt aligned now feels a bit... dated. Maybe your logo was DIY'd, or your colours were chosen on a whim back when you were just beginning.

Now, your work is deeper. Your voice is clearer. And your visuals? They’re not quite keeping up.

A brand refresh lets you realign your visual identity with who you are today — and who you’re becoming.

If this sounds a bit confusing, try my blog post explaining how having a Brand Strategy makes for a strong website.

Or, the 3 components of Brand Identity together with Verbal and Visual Branding.

2. You’re Attracting the Wrong Type of Enquiries

If you're getting leads that don’t feel quite right — or you’re not attracting the kind of clients you're really meant to help — it might be your branding.

Your brand identity should act like a lighthouse, guiding your dream clients in. It’s not about being flashy — it’s about being clear, confident, and consistent.

Here’s a post on attracting more leads via your website.

3. Your Messaging and Visuals Feel Disconnected

Maybe your services have evolved, your voice has matured, or you’ve niched down — but your website and visuals still reflect a past version of your business.

When your message and visuals don’t match, your audience gets mixed signals. That disconnect can erode trust and create confusion.

A refreshed identity brings unity to your message, making everything feel cohesive, professional, and purpose-led.

4. You’re Up-Levelling or Pivoting

Are you planning a new offer, refining your services, or stepping into a new niche? Transitions like these are the perfect time to revisit your branding.

Your brand identity should support your next chapter — not hold you back. A refresh gives you the structure and style to grow into.

5. You Don’t Feel Proud Sharing Your Website or Content

If you’re hesitating to send someone your link or cringing a bit when they visit your homepage… listen to that nudge.

Your website and brand presence should feel like home—aligned, elevated, and a joy to share. When you love how you show up online, it energises everything else.

💬 Is it time for your brand to catch up with your brilliance?

You don’t need to start from scratch. A brand identity refresh is a celebration of how far you’ve come — and a step into your next level with clarity and intention.

Whether it’s refining your website, updating your visuals, or aligning your brand strategy, I’m here to support you — thoughtfully and without the overwhelm.

🌟 Let’s Find The Right Next Step For You

✨ Book a Free Discovery Call – We’ll talk through where you are now and where you want to go.

✨ Or dive straight into a Website Audit & Strategy session if you’re ready for expert insights and actionable next steps.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

Make Your Website Work For You: Why My Squarespace Help & Support Sessions Are a Game-Changer for Small Business Owners

As a small business owner, your Squarespace website is more than just a digital presence—it’s the heartbeat of your brand. It’s your storefront, portfolio, online shop, booking tool, and brand ambassador rolled into one. But when something’s not quite working, or you just can’t quite figure out how to navigate the intricacies of Squarespace, it’s easy to feel stuck or frustrated.

That’s exactly why I created my 90-Minute Squarespace Help & Support Session—a tailored, efficient solution designed to address your specific needs that helps you move past the overwhelm and get your website back on track. Whether it’s a few specific tweaks or a much-needed confidence boost, this session is your shortcut to a more strategic, polished, and easy-to-manage website.

Tailored, Targeted, Transformational Squarespace Help—In Just 90 Minutes

This isn’t a generic tech support chat. You’re booking time with a web designer and brand strategist who understands the strategy behind small business websites—not just the tech.

We’ll meet via Zoom, and you can either:

• Have me do the work for you during the session, or

• Let me guide you step-by-step so you feel confident making updates in future

You’ll get:

• A focused, no-fluff 90-minute working session

• A pre-session form to outline exactly what you need

• Optional prep call if your task list is longer and needs a bit of prioritising

👉 Book your 90-minute session here

Real Client Win: From “I Don’t Know Where to Start” to “My Website Reflects Me”

One client—a creative coach in midlife—came to me with a Squarespace site that had been half-finished for months. In 90 minutes, we updated her homepage design, made subtle changes to her service page, and added a simple contact form.

Her words?

✨ "It finally feels like me—I couldn’t have done this without your calm support and expertise."

This kind of transformation isn’t unusual—these sessions are designed to empower you and create momentum.

What Can You Use This Session For?

Here are just a few of the Squarespace updates I regularly help with:

• Adjusting mobile layout issues

• Refreshing homepage design or section blocks

• Connecting or styling a blog or podcast page

• Setting up newsletter sign-ups or freebie delivery

• Page updates (using your content)

• Adding SEO basics like page titles, descriptions & image names

• Understanding analytics or Google Search Console

• Creating URL redirects after a site rebrand

• Squarespace training - something specific

💡 Got a list of website updates you’ve been avoiding? No problemo! We’ll tackle as much as we can in 90 focused minutes.

Common Squarespace Challenges I Help Solve

These are the real-world challenges many of my clients face—challenges Google searches alone often don’t solve:

❌ “My mobile view looks off, and I don’t know how to fix it.”

→ We adjust your content blocks so your mobile site flows beautifully.

❌ “I can’t figure out how to change my header or navigation.”

→ Let’s update it so it’s intuitive for your visitors and reflects your brand personality.

❌ “I don’t know what SEO even means on Squarespace.”

→ I’ll show you how to update SEO settings, rename images, and use keywords that match your audience.

❌ “I feel like my site doesn’t reflect me or what I offer.”

→ We’ll align your visual branding and copy so your site feels authentic and professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What can I get done in 90 minutes of Squarespace help?

Most clients can tick off 3–5 meaningful updates depending on complexity. We’ll focus on what matters most for your visibility and user experience.

❓ Can you help with SEO?

Absolutely. I’ll show you how to optimise page titles, meta descriptions, image alt tags, and more—all within Squarespace’s built-in settings.

❓ Will I get a recording?

Yes—if you choose the guided option, you’ll receive a session recording to revisit anytime.

❓ Is this for all Squarespace versions?

Yes! I work confidently with both Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1, and I can help you assess whether changing to 7.1 is right for you.

Designed for Small Business Owners Who Want Support—Not Overwhelm

You don’t need to figure everything out alone. My clients are often established, ambitious service providers—coaches, educators, consultants, creatives—who have a vision but feel blocked by tech or time.

This service is ideal if:

• You’ve got a list of website tasks gathering dust

• You’re launching something new and need it live, fast

• You’re a confident DIYer who needs a boost or a second opinion

• You’ve outgrown your current site and want it to match your evolution

Let’s Get You Moving Forward

There’s something incredibly energising about getting clarity and traction in one focused session. Whether we’re updating your design, adding SEO magic, or simplifying your client journey—you’ll leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more in control.

🔗 Click here to book your Squarespace Help Session

📌 Want bigger-picture brand support? Take a look at my Web Audit With Strategy.

Supportive, strategic, and tailored to your pace—this is website help without the overwhelm.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

Your website is more than just a digital space—it’s the heart of your brand and where potential clients get their first taste of what it’s like to work with you. So, it’s majorly important any web copy feels like an extension of you.

But let’s be honest—writing website copy can feel daunting, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule. As a web designer and brand strategist, I understand the challenges my clients face when creating authentic website copy, especially when tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and other AI platforms are a major part of the process. And of course, you want to avoid creating web copy that may end up sounding a bit… robotic or unnatural.

A big part of what I do is helping clients bridge the gap between AI-generated drafts and the heartfelt, human touch that makes a website truly resonate with best-fit clients or customers.

But, don’t worry, you can keep your authentic brand voice while benefiting from AI’s efficiency. Here’s how:

1. Start with Your Brand Voice

Before you even touch AI, clarify what makes your brand voice special and unique. Finding your brand voice is more important than ever.

And, you may want to read my blog post on copywriting and writing authentic web copy.

For example:

• Are you warm and conversational?

• Playful yet professional?

Write down key traits and some go-to phrases you often use (like "I’ll pop the info into an email"). This gives you a benchmark to work from.

Please note: I have no reason to suggest that AI-generated copy was used on this website; The Living House. I share this screenshot because I think this interior design business does a great job of using their brand voice.

2. Use AI as Your Assistant, Not the Boss

AI is brilliant at generating ideas and structures, but it’s not you. Use it as a starting point for ideas or to write an outline, then write your words to reflect your tone.

For example, if the AI writes something formal like, “Explore our services to enhance your business outcomes,” you might rewrite it to say, “Take a look at how we can make your business shine.”

3. Inject Your Personality

Your quirks, humour, and personal stories are what make your brand stand out. Here are some tips on the topic of brand personality.

AI won’t know when you turned a project mishap into a major success for a client—but your readers would love it! Sprinkle in anecdotes and insights that only you can provide.

4. Stay True to Your Core Messaging

AI loves being helpful but can sometimes add fluff that doesn’t align with your brand values or unique selling points.

Review the content and make sure your main message—why clients should trust you and how you can help them—shines through.

Great use of natural sounding web copy.

5. Customise AI Prompts

When using AI tools, give detailed instructions about your style.

For example: “Write this in a friendly, conversational tone as if I’m chatting with a client. Avoid tech jargon and include a little humour.”

This ensures the first draft is closer to your voice, saving you time tweaking.

6. Test the Copy Out Loud

Once the web copy draft is ready, read it aloud.

• Does it feel natural?

• Like something you’d actually say?

If it feels stiff, edit again until it flows. Sometimes swapping a single word can make a massive difference.

7. Use Relational Language

Your website should feel like a warm invitation to a conversation, not a lecture.

Phrases like, “Let’s get started,” or, “Here’s how we can work together,” create connection.

If AI writes something that sounds too impersonal, tweak it to reflect your relationship-focused approach.

8. Get a Second Opinion

Share the copy with a trusted friend or colleague who knows your voice.

They can often spot bits that feel "off" and help you refine the tone.

9. Infuse Personality Everywhere

Don’t stop at the paragraphs.

Add your brand voice to headings, button text (think "Let’s Chat!" instead of "Submit"), and even custom designed 404 pages. Every part of your site should feel you.

10. Keep It Flexible

Your voice might evolve over time—and that’s okay.

Stay open to tweaking your copy now and again so it stays aligned with where your business is heading.

Wrapping Up

Using AI-generated web copy doesn’t have to mean sacrificing authenticity. By integrating your personality into the machine-generated content, you can craft a website that’s polished, professional, and unmistakably you.

Ready to get started? Click the button below and fill out a contact form!

Take The Quiz: How Healthy Is Your Website?

Once you’ve taken the quiz, I’ll guide you through your next steps! Whether that’s a free Getting Unstuck 15-minute call, or in-depth support, I’ve got you covered.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for my Free downloads:

• 1. 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• 2. Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• 3. Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• 4. SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• 5. Take my Interactive Quiz: Rate Your Website Health

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

In today's post, I'm sharing some dead easy ideas for adding interactive elements (like this animated underline) to your website that'll keep your visitors clicking, scrolling, and (most importantly) taking action (yes, please!)

So, you know when you land on a website and it feels a bit... flat? Like it's just sitting there, not doing much for you? Well, here are some ideas that'll help make your Squarespace website (or any website) more engaging and (dare I say it?) a smidge fabulous.

This post is ideal if you’ve got your brand colours, clear web copy and gorgeous photos—but it’s not quite pulling your ideal clients in. This is where interactive elements come in to save the day and also add a sprinkle of personality.

Whether you're a coach, consultant, educator or creative business owner and you’re wondering how to make your Squarespace website work harder for you (without slogging your guts out), these tips will help you elevate your digital presence. No tech overwhelm, I promise! Let's dive in...

What Are Interactive Elements, and Why Do They Matter?

Interactive elements are features that encourage your visitors to take action—whether it’s clicking, scrolling, or simply engaging with your content. They make your site more dynamic and, dare I say, fun.

Here’s the kicker: websites with interactive elements can boost user engagement by up to 200% compared to static sites. That’s a major win if you’re trying to build trust, showcase your expertise, and keep those potential clients sticking around long enough to think, “Yes, she’s the one I need!”.

15 Ways to Add Interactive Elements to Your Squarespace Website

Want to make your website more engaging without overwhelming visitors?

Below are some practical ideas that are easy to implement on Squarespace (or other website platforms).

1. Clickable Tabs or Accordions

Great for FAQs or showcasing your services in bite-sized pieces.

For example, instead of listing everything your coaching program includes, let users click through categories like "mindset," "strategy," and "accountability."

Accordions are a great way to share additional info. without overwhelming the visitor.

2. Interactive Forms

Don’t just use a basic contact form. Add fields that encourage clients to share more about their needs.

Think of it as the first step in creating that personal connection. I’ve written a post on what to include on your contact page.

• Example: Add contact, booking, or survey forms to capture visitor information or provide personalised experiences.

Think strategically with your contact form. What initial questions help you to save time and energy when
responding to enquiries?

3. Image Hover Effects

Perfect for showing before-and-after results or highlighting services.

Hover over an image, and boom—more details appear!

4. Scrolling Animations

As visitors scroll, you can make your text or images slide, fade, or pop into view. This creates a more dynamic experience without being flashy.

And here's a little bonus tip: Squarespace can add animated underlines (< this is my fav) to your text. It's a subtle but stylish way to make your navigation more engaging!

5. Video Backgrounds

Set the tone for your site with a calm, looped video.

Example: Imagine a wellness coach using a serene waterfall video in the hero section. Instant vibe.

6. Countdown Timers

Got a special offer or workshop coming up?

A countdown timer creates a sense of urgency while keeping your audience informed.

7. Interactive Carousels

Perfect for coaches, consultants, or creatives to showcase testimonials, portfolio pieces, or program highlights.

8. Custom Buttons with Micro Interactions

Buttons that change colour when hovered over? Yes, please.

These tiny details make a big impact.

BEFORE

AFTER CLICKING THE BUTTON

9. Embedded Quizzes

Imagine a coach offering a quiz titled, “What’s Your Next Business Move?”.

It’s fun, shareable, and positions you as an expert.

10. Social Media Feed Integration

Share your latest Instagram posts in real-time.

It keeps your site fresh and lets visitors see what you’re about today.

11. Lightbox Pop-ups for Shop Products

Let your products shine with lightbox pop-ups that give shoppers a closer look.

When someone clicks on a product image, it conveniently expands to show more details, additional photos, or purchasing options—all without leaving the current page.

For example, if you're selling digital products like workbooks or courses, a lightbox can preview sample pages or course modules, helping potential buyers make confident decisions.

BEFORE clicking on the image

AFTER clicking on the image

12. Appointment Scheduling Tools

Integrate something like Acuity or Calendly so clients can book a discovery call without the back-and-forth emails.

Example: Acuity Scheduling set up on my website

13. Pricing Tables with Hover Effects

If you’ve got packages, let clients compare them side by side.

Add hover effects for bonus details like “Most Popular” or “Client Favourite.”

14. Parallax Scrolling

A background image that moves more slowly than the foreground content as users scroll creates depth and keeps visitors scrolling.

15. Scroll-to-Top Button

Simple but effective. A small button that appears as visitors scroll helps them navigate effortlessly. Usually located in your website footer.

Here’s my ‘Back to Top’ button in the context of my web footer.

My ‘Back to Top’ button using code.

How to Keep It Strategic (and Not Overwhelming)

Now, before you go wild adding all the things, remember this: the goal is to create an inviting experience. Choose interactive features that align with your brand personality and make sense for your audience.

For example, if you’re a coach targeting busy professionals, keep it simple—use accordions to streamline information or a scheduling tool to make bookings effortless. If you’re a creative, like a photographer, lean into image hover effects or interactive galleries to show off your portfolio.

Why Interactive Elements Work for Coaches, Consultants, Educators and Creatives

Let’s say you’re a life coach who helps women navigate midlife transitions. You could:

• Use a quiz to help them identify their biggest roadblock.

• Showcase success stories in a testimonial carousel.

• Add an FAQ accordion so potential clients feel confident about taking the next step.

The interactive features aren’t just pretty—they’re purposeful. They guide visitors through your site and make it easier for them to say, “Yes, I trust her!”.

Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think

The beauty of Squarespace is how flexible it is. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to implement these features. Many are built-in, and for the rest, there are easy integrations or simple custom code tweaks I can help with.

If you’re ready to make your website more interactive and engaging, let’s chat! Whether a small tweak or a full redesign, I can help you create a site that reflects your brilliance—and makes your audience feel it.

Ready to transform your website into a client magnet? Let’s get to work! 🚀

Pro Tip: Adding interactive elements doesn’t just look good—it keeps visitors on your site longer, which can improve your Google ranking. Win-win!

Feel free to get in touch if you’d like to explore which features make sense for your brand. I’d love to help you craft a standout website that works as hard as you do. 💻

Get Your Free 5-Step Web Design Checklist for
Creating a Successful Site, Today!

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

• Take my Interactive Quiz: Rate Your Website Health

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

So... you need a strong personal brand website that's as fabulous as you are?

As a website designer and brand strategist, I've seen my fair share of bland sites that could use a bit of pizzazz.

Your website is usually the first interaction potential clients have with your brand and it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about creating an experience that conveys WHO you are and WHAT makes you stand out.

First Off, What is a Personal Brand?

It's the combo of:

1. Your values

2. Approach to work

3. Brand personality

4. Expertise

5. Visual identity

It's the ongoing process of marketing yourself as a brand, consistently maintaining an image tailored to resonate with your specific audience.

The goal is to make a lasting impression on your ideal clients (and others) while leaving room for growth and evolution as your business evolves.

Growing Demand for Consistent Brand Presentation: Consistency in personal branding efforts can increase brand awareness by 3.5 times. This includes using cohesive design elements, colours, and messaging across all platforms, which can also boost revenue by nearly 23% for businesses that prioritise it​. TrueList

Let’s explore 10 actionable tips to infuse your unique personality into your personal brand website.

1. Tell Your Story (and Make it Juicy!)

Your brand story is your brand magic – it's what makes you, well, you!

Share in brief, why you started your biz, what gets you out of bed in the morning (besides coffee), and any lightbulb moments that shaped your journey. Don’t be afraid to open up and be more vulnerable. And, if you’re not sure, read my blog post, on Authentic Brand Storytelling for a Great Website About Page.

Because of your openness, your dream clients or customers will feel more connected to you as a person. It’s not just about what you do, it’s also about ‘who’ you are.

Do pop this onto your 'About' page or create a snazzy video intro. The whole thing should give your visitors the warm fuzzies and make them think, "Yep, this is my kind of person!"

Tip: Throw in some quirky details or funny anecdotes. Did you start your coaching business after a disastrous date? Spill the deets (that make sense to share).

2. Ditch the Stock Photos (Unless They're Majorly You)

Look, we've all seen those naff, generic stock photos! It's time to get real!

When possible, use photos of yourself, your team, your workspace, or even your cat/dog (if they're your unofficial CEO). Real photos help build trust, offer a glimpse into your world and create a sense of familiarity.

A natural picture of you working behind the scenes or interacting with clients can instantly add warmth and relatability to your website.

Tip: If you're going for warm and approachable, opt for photos with natural light and genuine smiles. For a high-end feel, look for sleek and modern shots with minimalistic elements. Just make sure it's authentically you!

On this website, there’s a great variety of images that show the brand in action.

3. Write Like You Talk (Yeah, Really!)

Authentic brand Storytelling. The way you communicate is part of your brand identity. Your website copy should mirror how you speak.

Perhaps this sounds like you're chatting to a client over a cuppa, professional yet friendly. This is called Conversational Copy.

If you're prone to using a little local slang, embrace it (you may need to explain what you mean lol)! If you're more polished, that's great too. The key is consistency – your website should sound like it was written by the same person as your blog post (plot twist: it was!).

Here’s a post I’ve written with tips for Copywriting: Writing Authentic Web Copy That Feels Like You and another- Why Your Brand Voice Matters More Than Ever.

Why?

Because in the digital world, we find ourselves in, we all want to know that we’re still working with and connecting with HUMANS. This approach fosters a sense of connection, allowing others to relate to you on a personal level. It brings out your human side, steering clear of robotic AI web copy that has an impersonal feel.

Tip: Imagine you're explaining your services to a friend. Would you use jargon? Probably not. Keep it simple and let your personality shine through!

4. Show Off Your Values (Without Being a Show-Off)

Your values are at the heart of your brand personality.

Whether you're all about sustainability or on a mission to help women improve their health, make sure your website visitors know what you stand for. It's a great way to attract clients who share your values and they will be more likely to become raving fans.

Don’t be afraid to share your values upfront. Use your homepage, about page, or even your footer to showcase what you stand for.

Tip: Creating a "What We Believe In" or “Our Core Values” section (or weave your values into your service descriptions), can make a strong impression and help visitors understand what drives your brand. For example, if you're big on work-life balance, mention how your services help clients "earn more without slogging their guts out".

5. Design with Personality (No Boring Allowed!)

Your website design (and brand) should be like your favourite outfit – it should make you feel like the bee’s knees and reflect your style.

Choose colours that align with the emotions you want to evoke (eg. calming blues or greens for wellness brands, neutrals for outdoorsy), with fonts that match your tone and represent your personality. Consider incorporating hand-drawn elements, unique icons, or playful touches that represent your style for a more personal feel. Remember to be consistent with your messaging, colour, fonts etc. throughout your website (and social platforms).

Here’s a post on Showing Off Your Brand Personality on Your Website.

Why?

If there’s no consistency, your audience might get confused. For instance, if you use organic shapes on your website’s home page and then triangles on another page, it’s pretty confusing, right? Yep.

Tip: Pick one accent colour that really stands out as ‘yours’ and use it consistently across your website. It could be the colour of your signature lipstick or your favourite mug – make it yours!

Colour and fonts on this website are bold, modern, confident with a touch of feminine.

6. Testimonials That Pack a Punch

Client testimonials are a great way to build credibility on your personal brand website, but they can also be a place to highlight your personality and let potential clients see the real you in action.

Instead of standard text quotes, consider asking clients for video testimonials. This not only adds a human element but also allows the client’s genuine appreciation to shine through. Display these gems in a way that complements your brand style, such as bold speech bubbles or sleek, minimalistic quotes.

Tip: Ask clients to mention specific aspects of working with you. Did your sense of humour make strategy sessions a laugh? Did your attention to detail save the day? These personal touches can seal the deal for potential clients.

7. Get Interactive (Because Who Doesn't Love a Good Quiz?)

Interactive elements such as quizzes, polls, or interactive timelines can make your website more engaging and offer insights into your brand personality that act like the cherry on top of your website trifle.

They're fun, and engaging, and can show off your personality by the bucket load. For example, a coach could create a “Find Your Coaching Style” quiz, while a designer might offer a fun “Colour Mood Finder.” These interactive features help visitors memorably engage with your brand. If you're a Life Coach, how about a "What's Your Life Path?" quiz? Interior designer? Try a "Find Your Dream Room Style" tool.

These little touches can keep visitors on your site longer and give them a taste of what it's like to work with you.

An example of a quiz that works very well for this brand.

8. Calls-to-Action with Pizzazz

Forget boring old "Submit" buttons. Your Calls to Action (CTAs) should have as much personality as you do!

Instead of "Contact Us", try "Let's Chat Over a Cuppa/Coffee" for a relaxed, friendly tone. Rather than "Learn More", go for "Discover How We Can Work Together" for a more collaborative feel, or “Let’s Go!” or “I’m Ready!”.

These little tweaks can make a BIG difference in getting visitors to take that next step. The same principle could be applied to form instructions and error messages.

9. Flaunt Your Superpower (AKA Your USP)

What makes you different from every other coach/designer/educator out there?

Is it your unique process, a particular service, or a unique experience you offer clients? Your ability to make complex ideas simple?

Whatever it is, make sure it's front and centre on your homepage, preferably in the hero section. This is your chance to show potential clients why you're the bee's knees!

Tip: Consider adding a short video or audio clip introducing yourself and your USP. It's a great way for visitors to get a feel for your energy and personality right off the bat. Keep it light and conversational. Let your quirks show rather than strive for perfection.

Get your Free Brand Magic Guide, today! How To Discover Your
Unique Selling Proposition USP

10. Define Your Ideal Client (and Speak Directly to Them)

Knowing your ideal client is like having a secret weapon for your website. It's not just about demographics – it's about understanding their hopes, fears, and dreams.

Once you've nailed this, you can tailor your entire website to speak directly to them. Use language they resonate with, address their specific pain points, and show how you're the perfect solution to their problems.

A generalist mentality isn’t great for personal branding. You’re more memorable when you have a unique niche. If you’re not sure, keep plugging away and bit by bit you’ll figure out what you truly do best and who you serve at your highest level.

Also, people love to see the real, unfiltered version of a brand. Include an Instagram feed or a dedicated section that shares behind-the-scenes moments. Whether it’s a photo of your creative process, a day in your life, or a peek at your latest project, this kind of content shows authenticity and gives visitors a deeper understanding of who you are.

Tip: Create a detailed ideal client avatar and keep it in mind when writing every piece of content. Would your ideal client giggle at that joke? Would they appreciate that pop culture reference? Tailor your personality to connect with theirs!

Wrapping It Up: Authentic Personal Brand Website for Small Business Owners

Your website is your digital home, and just like your actual home, it should feel like you. By following these tips, you'll create a site that not only looks great but feels authentically you. Remember, it's all about building relationships and connecting with your ideal clients. So don't be afraid to let your true colours shine through – quirks, a little local slang, humour, and all!

What To Do Now?

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start with your website, I'm here to help!

For help:

• Contact me via my Contact page.

• Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

So... you want to create a website About page that'll make your ideal clients say "Wow, this is exactly who I've been looking for!"? Yeah, I thought so!

As a Squarespace Website designer and brand strategist, I've seen firsthand how authentic brand storytelling with a well-crafted website About Page can transform a good website into an irresistible one!

Your web About page isn’t just a summary of who you are —it’s the heartbeat of your brand. This is where you connect authentically with your audience, share your journey, and highlight the values and mission that set you apart. It also speaks to the main problem your client wants to solve, demonstrating that you’re the best person to help.

Okay, let's explore how you can craft an About page that's not just another boring business bio but a proper page-turner that will keep your audience wanting to stay.

Scroll down👇 for my video walking through real-life brand examples.

Firstly, Authentic Brand Storytelling Isn't Just a Fancy Marketing Term

It's what separates the 'meh' brands from the ones that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. You know, the ones you can't stop talking about to your friends over a cuppa.

Because as humans, we're wired for stories. We crave them like we crave a good Yorkshire pudding on a Sunday roast. And that, my friend, is your golden ticket for making genuine connections with your audience.

Screenshot: Pippa Small Jewellery. Showcasing brilliant brand storytelling from her About page.

So, how can you create a website About page that resonates with visitors and encourages them to engage with your brand?

Let’s dive into 5 key elements for authentic brand storytelling that can make your website's About page unforgettable.

1. Nail Your Brand Story's Core Elements

Don’t get too carried away. It’s not about listing every detail of your brand’s history but focusing on what makes it unique and aligned with your audience’s values.

Right, let's get down to brass tacks. Your brand story needs some key ingredients:

• Your business purpose (why you drag yourself out of bed every morning)

• Your business values (what makes you tick, see example screenshot just below)

• Your business mission (what you're out to achieve in this world)

• Your ‘why’ behind what you do
  

  The key here? Be authentic. None of that wishy-washy corporate speak, thanks very much.

Screenshot: Glossier UK. Great web copy example sharing business values from their About page.

• Tip: Ask yourself what motivates you to keep doing what you do and what impact you want to have. This can often reveal the core of your brand story.

Here's a bit of data to chew on: A recent HubSpot survey found that a whopping 80% of consumers feel more connected to brands that share their values.

So, being your authentic self isn't just good for the soul - it's good for engaging your audience too!

2. Share Personal Experiences for Deeper Connection (Warts and All)

Now, don't go thinking your web About page should read like a CV. Oh no, we want the juicy bits but only if it relates to your ideal client or customer and their challenge! Share those personal stories that'll make your audience go, "Crikey, that's just like me!"

Remember, audiences today value authenticity and transparency, and nothing communicates this better than sharing personal experiences. By offering glimpses into the challenges you’ve overcome or the inspiration behind your work, you make your brand relatable and human.

Here’s my post to help with Copywriting: writing authentic web copy that feels like you.

So, think about it: what challenges have you faced?

What made you start your business?

What keeps you going when things get tough?

That's the stuff that'll make your brand memorable.

• Tip: Instead of a formal list of achievements, include a story or experience that led to a key moment in your brand’s journey. This helps readers connect with your brand on a more personal level. Remember, only include what’s relevant and forget the rest. What length should the story be? As long as it needs to be, to include your points.

• Example: Sarah London’s About page doesn’t shy away from sharing the raw reality of their journey. They speak openly about the struggles they faced during Lauren’s illness.

And it's not just me saying this. Research from Sprout Social shows that 73% of people feel more connected to brands that use clear, relatable storytelling. Customers today are looking for brands that go beyond the surface to communicate shared values. So go on, give them something to relate to!

3. Keep It Conversational

Right, here's where you can channel your brand’s inner personality. No need for fancy words or jargon (unless necessary for your brand) - just good old plain English will do. Here’s my post all about showing your brand personality on your website.

A website's About page that reads like corporate jargon can feel distant and unapproachable. On the other hand, a conversational tone can make your audience feel as though they’re getting to know the real you. This relaxed, friendly approach makes your brand feel more human and relatable, inviting your audience to connect without any pressure.

• Tip: Use straightforward language and write in the first person (or “we” if you have a team) to make your tone approachable. Avoid industry jargon that might alienate readers.

• Example: Look at the web About page of Boden (UK), a British fashion brand that incorporates humour and relatable language in describing their journey. They balance professionalism with a lighthearted approach that reflects their brand's unique personality.

Video: See These Tips in Action!

To bring these principles to life, watch this short video where I walk through a few standout About pages. You’ll see how each brand incorporates authenticity, a relatable tone, and strong storytelling to create an About page that truly resonates with their audience.

4. Paint a Picture - Visual Storytelling Elements

Your brand story isn’t just about words—it’s also about how you visually communicate your message.

Remember, a picture's worth a thousand words. So don't just tell 'em, show 'em! Use high-quality images, brand colours, and graphics that represent 'you' and will reinforce your brand’s values and personality, helping visitors feel a deeper connection to what you stand for.

Whether it's a snap of you working away in your home office or a graphic representing your values - make it visual, make it ‘you’. Think of visuals as another layer of storytelling that complements and enriches the text.

Here’s my post if you’re unsure how to reduce image file size for a slow-loading website. And here’s another post about your visual brand’s identity.

• Tip: Use photos that reflect your brand values or key moments in your journey. Don’t be afraid to include a personal touch—such as a team photo or behind-the-scenes shots that give your audience a peek into your world.

• Example: Boden, a UK global clothing brand, uses warm, intimate visuals that work well with its relaxed, classy and intimate visuals. Their visual approach reflects their brand values, creating a seamless storytelling experience.

5. Don't Leave 'Em Hanging - End with a Clear Call-to-Action

Fab, you've got their attention! Now what? Give them something to do! Guide visitors toward the next step.

End your About page with a clear call-to-action (CTA). Whether it's "Book Your Call" or "Let's Work Together", signing up for a newsletter, or following you on social media, make sure they know what to do next.

So, think of CTA’s as an invitation to connect further, making your About page a strategic touchpoint for engagement.

• Tip: Use action-oriented language, such as “Let’s Connect,” “Explore Our Services,” or “Join Our Community.” This makes it easy for visitors to know how they can stay connected with your brand and become part of your journey.

• Example: Glossier (USA), a female-led beauty brand, uses clean, minimalist CTAs that work well with their brand values of simplicity and authenticity.

Wrapping Up: Brand Storytelling for a Website About Page

So, there you have it. An authentic, well-crafted About page is a powerful asset for any brand, allowing you to connect meaningfully with your audience and convey the heart of your brand. By focusing on your core values, sharing personal experiences, using a conversational tone, incorporating visual storytelling, and ending with a clear CTA, you can create an About page that resonates with visitors and strengthens your brand.

Your website's About page isn’t just about informing—it's about inviting visitors to become part of your story. Authentic brand storytelling on this page is an opportunity to make a lasting impression, build trust, and create loyal relationships with your audience.

Now, isn't that better than slogging your guts out trying to be someone you're not? Yeah, I thought so too.

What To Do Now?

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start with your messaging, design, or underlying approach for your About page, I'm here to help!

For help:

• Contact me via my Contact page.

• Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions.

Let's make sure your website About page works for you, guiding your dream clients straight to your virtual doorstep!

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

As a Squarespace Website designer and brand strategist, I've seen firsthand how a well-crafted hero section can transform a good website into an irresistible one!

Let's chat about that all-important 'hero section' (aka 'web banner') - that eye-catching combo of image and text at the top of your homepage and underneath your header/navigation bar.

The Dynamic Duo: Your Website Hero Image and Hero Copy

Picture this:

A potential dream client lands on your website. What's the first thing they see?

Yep - your hero image and copy! This power pair is like your website's warm, welcoming hug and it has a big job to do!

Website client hero section example.
Why it works: Vibrant hero images sit alongside clear and straightforward motivational hero copy underpinned with an overall design that suits the brand personality. The CTA encourages visitors to head to the shop and purchase their bit of film history.

Your hero section isn't just about looking pretty (though who doesn't love a beautiful image?).

It's about setting the right tone for your brand, guiding your audience on a journey, and - most importantly - creating that instant connection with a pleasing design and harmonious colour schemes, avoiding clutter to maintain focus on your key message and CTA (call to action).

When we get it just right, this dynamic duo (hero image and hero copy) grabs attention, builds trust, and has your visitors eager to explore more.

Squarespace makes creating an eye-catching hero section with its intuitive drag-and-drop features, and custom styling options. You can easily add high-quality images, videos, and bold typography that instantly grab attention. Plus, with built-in mobile optimisation and flexible layouts, your hero section will look stunning across all devices—ensuring your brand makes a strong first impression every time.

Why Your Hero Image and Copy Matter (More Than You Might Think)

1. First Impressions are Everything

In our fast-paced digital world, you've got anywhere from milliseconds, up to four seconds to make an impact.

Your hero section? It's prime real estate!

Studies show that visitors form an opinion about your brand faster than you can say "fabulous". A well-chosen hero image, paired with words that pack a punch, instantly communicates your magic and who you're here to help. It's your chance to show off your value from the start!

Why it Works: Bowland Training’s emotive hero image speaks to the transformation that the client is seeking. The hero copy is straightforward and speaks to the desired outcome, with a choice of two CTAs. Keywords are present.

2. Visual Storytelling That Speaks Volumes

Your hero image should be the visual embodiment of your brand's vibe and values. It's not just a pretty face; it's a storytelling superstar.

An authentic, powerful image creates an emotional connection before your visitor reads a single word. Remember what I always say - this is your chance to make their heart skip a beat before they've even scrolled.

Why it Works: Alice’s jewellery is beautifully set off by her subtle and well-chosen hero image that matches her brand perfectly. The hero copy does a good job of describing the collection and the personality of the brand. In my opinion, some well-chosen keywords would have been useful for SEO purposes.

3. Crystal Clear Communication is Your Superpower

Your hero copy has one job - to clarify your offer and showcase your 'brand magic'. It ensures visitors instantly understand why they absolutely need to stick around and explore more.

Don’t keep your visitors guessing. The clearer your message, the more likely they will stay and explore!

Studies show that failing to communicate a site’s purpose at a glance causes potential clients and customers to click away from the site.

A survey carried out by Stanford Web Credibility Research found that 75% of users admit to making judgements about a company's credibility based on its website's design.

Source: Stanford Persuasive Technology Lab, 2022

Tried-and-True Tips for a Hero Section That Wows

After years of helping purpose-filled entrepreneurs create websites that truly shine, I've gathered a few golden nuggets of wisdom.

Here are my top tips for crafting a hero section that'll have your dream clients swooning:

Why it Works: A hero image that speaks to luxury and modern design. Keywords are present. The hero copy states clearly what this website is about. A CTA would have been helpful.

1. Use High-Quality, Soul-Stirring Images

   Your hero image should do more than just look stunning - it should tell your story!
   
   Choose high-quality, genuine images that capture the essence of your brand and reflect the real-life scenarios that will resonate with your ideal clients. Whether it's a snapshot of you in action (smiling, of course), or a scene that speaks to your audience's dreams, keep it real and relatable. This fosters a sense of connection and relatability.

   Remember, authenticity is your secret weapon!
   

2. Write Copy That Connects and Converts

   Understand your audience. Tailor your hero copy to your audience’s needs.

   Your hero copy should sing to your dream clients' souls! Start with an empowering and inclusive headline that speaks directly to their deepest desires or biggest challenges, followed by a brief, irresistible call to action (CTA). We're aiming for clarity with a sprinkle of magic here.

   This is your moment to make a heart-to-heart connection that communicates the value or transformation your service offers - do your best using language that connects with your audience’s goals and aspirations.

   I’ve written a blog post to uncover 5 simple ways to show your brand personality on your website that stands out and resonates with dream clients.

   Read this post if you need help writing authentic web copy that feels like you.
   

3. Strong and Relevant CTAs

   Use clear, action-based CTAs that guide visitors towards the next step, whether to schedule a call, get in touch, purchase a course, or explore more about your offerings.
   

4. Mobile Optimisation

   Ensure your hero section is fully mobile responsive as many users will access your site via smartphones and tablets.

   You might be interested in my post on images that are slow loading and how to rectify that.
   

5. Maintain Consistency with Branding

   Ensure your hero section aligns with your overall brand identity, maintaining consistency in colours, fonts, and messaging across your website.
   

6. Keywords and SEO

   Don’t forget to include relevant keywords in the hero copy. This is essential for both SEO and connecting with your ideal audience. Keywords not only help with search engine rankings but also ensure the message speaks directly to your target clients' needs and search behaviours.

   Think about the specific terms your clients would use to find your services. For example, instead of generic phrases like "get started," you could use more specific calls to action such as "Schedule your brand strategy session" or "Transform your wellness journey." This way, you're aligning with what your audience is actually searching for while also maintaining clarity and purpose in the copy.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the Power of Testing

One size doesn't fit all in the world of web design.

A small tweak to your headline or a swap of your image could enliven your engagement. Don't be afraid to experiment with A/B testing different elements in your hero section. It's a brilliant way to discover what makes your audience's hearts flutter.

Sometimes, it's the little details that create big magic!

Ready For Some DIY Action?

1. Take a good look at your current hero section. Does it truly represent your brand and speak to your ideal clients?

2. Brainstorm ideas for images that capture your brand's essence. Remember, authenticity is key!

3. Write a compelling headline that addresses your audience's biggest challenge or desire and how you can help.

4. What design would work well for your hero section?

5. If you are feeling stuck or want some guidance, please get in touch.

Ready to Make Your Hero Section Shine?

Creating the perfect hero section is part science, part art, and requires a deep understanding of your unique brand and dream clients. It’s about finding the sweet spot where visual appeal meets heart-centred communication while staying true to the essence of your business.

By designing a hero section that captures attention and fosters a meaningful connection, you can align your messaging with your clients' values, enhancing engagement, building trust, and driving conversions effectively.

What To Do Now?

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, I'm here to help! As your brand strategist and web designer, I'd love to work closely with you to craft a standout, strategic website that captures attention and communicates your unique value - without the stress or tech headaches.

Let's make sure your hero section is working its socks off, guiding your dream clients straight to your virtual doorstep!

Here's to creating unforgettable first impressions that lead to beautiful connections and thriving businesses! 💖✨

• If you prefer, contact me via email.

• Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions and to share your vision and website goals.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

Your Website: A Reflection of Your Brand Personality

Why Your Website Should Reflect Your Brand Personality ✨

This blog post offers practical guidance on infusing your brand personality into your website, with actionable strategies to create an authentic online presence that resonates with your dream clients and fosters meaningful connections.

Every brand has a personality (just like humans), whether you’re aware of it or not. It helps to set you apart from the competition.

When you think of your website, imagine it as your business's digital home. It's the warm, inviting space where potential clients get their first sense of what you do and who you are—your brand personality.

Question: So, if your brand were a person, what traits would define its personality? Find your brand personality further down the page.

These human characteristics are what truly connect and engage with your audience on a deeper level.

Remember, people are more likely to buy from a business with a brand personality similar to their own.

Tip: your brand personality should harmonise with your vision, mission and values.

Oh and when it comes to your web copy, yeah, you could let AI write it, or your VA, but it’ll miss the most crucial bit, you—your stories, your tone, your authentic voice. Without that, your website may feel generic, missing the personal touch that builds meaningful relationships. Here’s a post on writing authentic web copy.

In my work with clients, I've seen firsthand how a website infused with authentic personality sets the tone for stronger connections and long-term loyalty. Here are my website packages.

Consumers prefer brands with a strong personality: According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research, 62% of consumers form an emotional attachment to a brand that demonstrates a clear personality. This attachment often translates into brand loyalty and higher engagement with the brand, as people feel more connected to companies that reflect human traits and values.

Your Website: A Reflection of Your Brand Personality

Think of your website as more than a functional tool—it’s an extension of your brand’s personality.

Like inviting someone into your living room for a cosy chat over tea, your website should make visitors feel welcome, heard, and connected.

It’s not just about showcasing services; it’s about sharing a glimpse of the experience your clients will have when working with you.

Reasons To Reflect Your Brand Personality

1. Strong Brand Personality Helps Sell For You: Your personality builds trust and resonates with your audience, making it more likely they’ll choose you.

2. Builds Loyalty: A strong brand personality fosters repeat business and loyalty*—*think of it as your secret weapon.

3. Attracts Dream Clients: Your unique traits make you stand out, showing why you’re the right fit for your ideal clients.

4. Boosts Brand Awareness: Consistency makes you recognisable and memorable, crucial for long-term growth.

Brand personality influences purchasing decisions: A Nielsen report shows that 59% of global consumers prefer to buy products from brands that align with their values. This indicates that when a brand's personality mirrors the values or lifestyle of its target audience, it’s more likely to lead to purchasing decisions and long-term customer relationships.

Typically, We See 5 Main Brand Personality Types:

1. Excitement: Carefree, spirited, playful, youthful, and trendsetting

2. Sincerity: Thoughtful, kind, and committed to values like family, community, and environmental sustainability

3. Sophistication: Elegant, prestigious, and luxurious

4. Ruggedness: Tough, outdoorsy, unfussy, and unpretentious

5. Competence: Accomplished, successful, and influential, often highlighting leadership qualities.

Do you recognise your brand’s personality in the above?

No surprise, mine is Sincerity.

Brand Personality Examples: UK and USA Female-Led Brands That Embody Sincerity and Sophistication

Sincerity:

1. JoJo Maman Bébé (Laura Tenison): This maternity and baby clothing brand, founded by Laura Tenison, is known for its ethical practices, community focus, and sincerity in providing practical, sustainable, and thoughtful products for families. The brand is committed to supporting mothers and families with care and integrity.

2. Not On The High Street (Sophie Cornish & Holly Tucker): Co-founded by Sophie Cornish and Holly Tucker, Not On The High Street is a marketplace for unique, handmade goods from independent sellers. The brand's sincerity shines through in its dedication to supporting small businesses, providing meaningful gifts, and promoting creativity.

3. The Body Shop (Anita Roddick): Although Anita Roddick passed away, The Body Shop continues her legacy of sincerity by promoting environmental sustainability, fair trade, and ethical sourcing.

4. The Honest Company (Jessica Alba): Jessica Alba’s Honest Company stands for transparency and ethical values. The brand is all about providing safe, eco-friendly, and health-conscious products for families, grounded in a sincere mission to prioritise safety and wellbeing.

Sophistication:

1. Stella McCartney (Stella McCartney): Stella McCartney’s fashion brand is renowned for its modern sophistication and commitment to sustainability. The brand embodies elegance while promoting eco-friendly luxury fashion, blending high-end style with ethical values.

2. Charlotte Tilbury (Charlotte Tilbury): This luxury makeup brand, founded by makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury, represents ultimate sophistication. Known for its glamorous, high-end products, the brand is synonymous with beauty, elegance, and a touch of luxury.

3. Victoria Beckham (Victoria Beckham): Victoria Beckham’s fashion line, while international, is firmly rooted in the UK. Her brand is known for its sleek, minimalist designs that convey high-end sophistication, luxury, and timeless elegance.

4. Goop (Gwyneth Paltrow): Goop is the epitome of sophistication, catering to a high-end, luxury lifestyle market. Gwyneth Paltrow’s brand is known for its curated wellness products, luxury experiences, and aspirational living with an elegant, polished brand persona.

These brands show how sincerity and sophistication for a brand personality, can build strong, loyal audiences by authentically reflecting their core values.

5 Ways to Infuse Your Brand Personality Into Your Website

1. Voice & Tone: Communicate Like You Naturally Would

Your website’s copy should sound like you. Here’s a post on

Whether you’re calm and reassuring or a bit cheeky, let it shine through in your copy. For example, one of my clients had a warm, nurturing energy (brand personality: sincerity), so we crafted content that felt like a reassuring conversation with a friend. Every word felt like them, creating trust from the very first interaction. Here’s a post on why writing with your brand voice matters more than ever.

Client case study: artist eCommerce website

2. Visual Harmony: Let Your Brand’s Essence Shine Through

While your brand’s colour palette, images and fonts are not part of your brand personality, they are informed by it and help express it.

The brand personality is more about the emotional and human traits associated with the brand, while the visuals are an expression or reflection of that personality, helping communicate its tone, style, and character to the audience.

Choose colours and fonts that feel like you. Remember, stock photos are ok, but real photos and videos show the real you. One client’s behind-the-scenes video of them working with clients proved invaluable in creating an emotional connection.

For a holistic educator client, we used earthy tones and a nature-themed design that created a sense of calm and balance, making their site feel like a peaceful oasis.

Case study: Holistic website for educator

3. Your Story: Share the Journey that Shaped You

Share your journey. People love a good story, and it's a brilliant way to connect. The About page is a powerful way to express your brand’s personality. People love to hear the human story behind the business. It’s not just about listing credentials; it’s about sharing the passion, challenges, and experiences that brought you here; the journey. When one client opened up about overcoming challenges, their story resonated deeply with their audience, fostering trust and connection.

Bonus: Share your story through a video.

Client website example - Worldwide Art and Faith Retreats

4. Inviting Actions: Gentle, Encouraging CTAs

Craft calls-to-action that feel like a friendly nudge. Instead of "Buy now," try "Let's explore this together." When we share CTAs that align with your personality, they feel like a natural next step for visitors. One of my clients saw a significant increase in engagement when we changed their CTA from “Schedule a consultation” to “Let’s chat about how I can support your journey.” It was a subtle shift that spoke directly to their audience’s desire for a supportive, collaborative relationship.

Client website example - Therapist

5. Creating a Digital Space That Feels Like You

At the heart of it all, a website should be more than just a place to list your services – it should be a natural extension of who you are. I’ve seen how this personalised approach transforms websites into spaces where clients feel understood, welcomed, and excited to take that next step. By creating a digital home that feels like you, you’re inviting your ideal clients to settle in, get comfortable, and stay a while.

Whether you're revamping your website or just starting, remember this: your website is a reflection of your unique story and the experience you offer. And when your brand personality shines through, it’s easier to build the kind of lasting relationships that turn visitors into loyal clients.

UK artist eCommerce website - Georgie Good

Final Thought: Who Would Your Brand Be?

Creating a website that feels like you isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating a space where your clients feel understood and welcome.

Take a moment to reflect: if your brand were a person, what would their personality be? This question influences everything from imagery and logo design to fonts, graphics, and messaging. Remember, people are more likely to connect with and buy from a company that reflects their values and personality. Your brand personality helps you to stand out from the competition and makes your business memorable.

What To Do Now?

Remember, if your website feels like you, it's easier to build those lasting relationships. So, how's your website reflecting your brand? Let's have a chat about that. I’d love to help you build an online space that truly reflects you. 💻✨🏡

• If you prefer email, please contact me.

• Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions and to share your vision and website goals.

Instant Download: Get Your Free 5-Step Web Design Checklist

Sign up below ⬇️ for your PDF, including checklists, best practices, helpful tips and resources.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

The Website Platform Builder Dilemma! Choosing the right platform to build your website can feel like a big decision. With Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress all vying for your attention, how do you know which one is truly the best fit for your business?

The truth is, it’s not about finding the "best" platform out there. It’s about finding the one to make your life easier and your business shine. Yeah? So, let’s look at the best platform for you.

Each one has its strengths, and it comes down to your specific needs:

• Do you want complete design control?

• A seamless eCommerce experience?

• Or maybe you’re looking for something easy to manage so you can focus on your work without getting bogged down by technical details.

As someone who’s worked with website clients across many industries, I understand that your website isn’t just a box to check off—it’s the foundation of your brand. Whether you’re just starting or giving your existing business a bit of a glow-up, your website should be as unique as you are. Your website should be a strategic reflection of your vision, goals, and personality. And as a website designer, I proudly recommend Squarespace.

Here are some effective tips for launching a successful website.

Recommendation: While Wix and WordPress have their merits, Squarespace stands out as the ideal choice for small business owners who want professional, polished results without the overwhelming technical setup. In this post, let’s compare all three platforms and explore why Squarespace could be the best fit for your needs.

WordPress Note:

Before getting into the nitty gritty, it's crucial to distinguish between WordPress.com and WordPress.org, as they are very different and have very different needs.

• WordPress.com is a hosting platform that offers various subscription plans, suitable for those seeking a more managed experience.

• On the other hand, WordPress.org represents the open-source platform. This version is free to use, offering unparalleled freedom and customisation but requires you to secure your web hosting service. Unlike WordPress.com, WordPress.org is without limitations, giving full control over its website's design and functionality via themes and plugins.

In this blog post, I’m comparing WordPress.org.

Follow the link if you want to read about my awful experience with WordPress.org, and here for Squarespace or WordPress. No Regrets (hint, here’s where my love affair with Squarespace began, and we haven’t looked back).

1. What Do You Need from a Website?

When it’s time to build out and design your website, the most important question to ask yourself is: What is my goal?

Perhaps your website needs to be:

• Elegant, easy to manage, or have the potential for scalability?

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, coach, nutritionist launching a new business, an artist showcasing your portfolio, or a small business owner growing your brand, your website should reflect your vision and needs.

If you’re someone who values both design elegance and functionality—without the overwhelm and technical hassle—Squarespace is a fantastic choice. It’s built for people like you: purposeful, and focused on presenting a professional, creative, beautiful online presence. Whether selling products and/or services or simply sharing your story, Squarespace delivers the balance of form and function needed to engage your audience AND grow your brand.

Recommendation: Other platforms can feel like you're constantly trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. With Squarespace, you start with a stunning foundation and simply add your personal touch—without worrying about technical jargon or messy customisation.

Instant Download: Get Your Free 5-Step Web Design Checklist

Sign up below ⬇️ for your PDF, including checklists, best practices, helpful tips and resources.

2. Platform Breakdown: Ease of Use

Let’s be honest—building a website can be daunting. But it doesn’t have to be.

The beauty of Squarespace lies in its simplicity. With its drag-and-drop builder, you don’t need to know any code to create something strategic and beautiful. This means you can spend less time stressing over how things work and more time focusing on what matters: sharing your passion, growing your business, and connecting with your clients and customers.

Now, let’s compare. Wix offers similar ease of use, but the endless customisation options can sometimes feel overwhelming. You might find yourself spending more time tweaking the design than focusing on content, and inconsistency in layouts can creep in. WordPress, while powerful, comes with a steep learning curve that often requires technical knowledge or hiring a developer just to get the basics right and for website updates and maintenance.

Recommendation: For the service-based pro, creative entrepreneur, small business owner, or individual looking for professional results without the headache, Squarespace is the best solution. Its interface is intuitive and user-friendly, so you can confidently create something that represents your brand without getting stuck in the technical weeds.

3. Platform Breakdown: Design and Customisation

When it comes to building a website that looks as professional as it functions, Squarespace shines.

Whether you’re an artist looking to showcase your portfolio or a business owner who needs a polished, on-brand site, Squarespace offers a design-forward solution that doesn’t require hours of tinkering.

• For those with coding experience, Squarespace offers the ability to further customise your website by editing or adding code. This increases the flexibility. You can trust that your website will look amazing right out of the gate.

• Unlike Wix, Squarespace allows users to add up to 1000 pages. However, they don’t recommend adding more than 400 pages because this can slow down your website. Wix has a 100 static page limit with their plans. This may not be a deal breaker, but it does make Wix less ideal for websites that need the freedom to grow and evolve.

• When comparing Squarespace vs other website builders, Squarespace is also known for its comprehensive blogging capabilities, making it an excellent choice for image-driven brands and content-centric websites. Here’s my post on Why Writing Blog Posts is Always Superior to Relying on Social Media.

• Squarespace supports more third-party integrations that users can add to websites to enhance functionality.

• Squarespace also offers a range of eCommerce features, making it a viable option for online stores. Here’s more info. for my eCommerce website design services.

Now, Wix offers many customisation options and templates which may sound appealing, but in practice, too much flexibility can become a double-edged sword. It lacks structured customisation. The more you tweak, the higher the risk of design inconsistencies creeping in, especially if you’re not a seasoned designer. And Wix’s app store doesn’t have nearly as many third-party integrations to add to your website compared to Squarespace.

Wix’s blogging capabilities are more basic and lack the advanced tools offered by Squarespace and WordPress.

And while WordPress gives you the highest level of customisation, it comes with added complexity and often requires a developer to get things just right. That can be a problem for people who want a clean, professional look without spending extra time (or money) on customisation.

Recommendation: If you want a professional design from the start, without having to tinker endlessly, Squarespace is the platform for you. Its templates are sleek, reliable, and ready to help you make a great first impression.

4. Platform Breakdown: SEO and Performance

We know that great design isn’t enough—your website also needs to be discoverable and perform well.

Squarespace handles this seamlessly, with built-in SEO tools that make it easy for you to optimise your site for search engines without needing to install third-party premium plugins, unless you want to. Optimised SEO is also essential for ensuring websites load in under three seconds as Google recommends.

I’m living proof of Squarespace’s successful SEO with blog posts that are 4+ years old, still bringing me traffic and leads. Plus, every Squarespace site can be mobile-optimised using Fluid Engine, right from the start, ensuring that your site looks fantastic and performs smoothly on mobile devices (a must for Google and favourable rankings).

Back-end example of Fluid Engine, the Squarespace mobile optimised drag-and-drop editor

• Some of Squarespace’s built-in SEO features include:

  • Built-in mobile optimisation

  • SSL certification

  • Google Search Console and Google Analytics integration

  • Auto-generated meta tags for all pages

  • Auto-generated sitemaps

  • Clean URLs

  • SEO checklist

While Wix has some decent SEO capabilities, it’s not as robust, especially if you plan to grow a larger, more complex site. On the other hand, WordPress offers powerful SEO options, but they require plugins like Yoast, which add an extra layer of management and potential complications.

Recommendation: For those who want a seamless all-in-one solution for SEO and performance, Squarespace is ideal. With built-in tools and mobile optimisation, you won’t need to worry about juggling third-party solutions or running into technical issues that could slow you down.

5. Platform Breakdown: eCommerce Features

If you want to sell products or services online, Squarespace makes the process straightforward to set up and manage.

Everything is streamlined and integrated, so there’s no need to add plugins or deal with external systems.

Example of a previous client’s online store for an eCommerce Website Design

Whether you’re selling physical products, digital downloads, or even services, Squarespace’s built-in eCommerce tools are designed to support small to medium-sized businesses, helping you manage orders, inventory, and customer interactions with ease.

Wix offers strong eCommerce capabilities as well, but scaling can become a challenge as your store grows. WordPress, through WooCommerce, is highly flexible for larger stores or more complex needs, but it requires more setup and additional plugins, which can quickly become a headache (been there) for someone who just wants a straightforward e-commerce solution.

Recommendation: For businesses just getting started or looking to grow their online store efficiently, Squarespace’s built-in eCommerce tools offer everything you need without the hassle of managing plugins or custom development.

eCommerce Growth: Squarespace reported a 14% year-over-year increase in eCommerce sales on its platform in 2023, reflecting the growing popularity of its built-in e-commerce tools for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

(Source: Squarespace Financial Report 2023)

6. Cost Comparison

Let’s talk about cost because, at the end of the day, your website needs to fit your budget. Squarespace offers predictable monthly pricing with everything included—hosting, templates, eCommerce, and even live customer support. There are no hidden costs, and you won’t be surprised by extra charges for hosting or must-have features.

Squarespace UK pricing as of September 2024.

If we work together, I can offer you 20% off your first year of Squarespace hosting.

• Squarespace offers a 14-day free trial, allowing users to explore its features before committing to a paid plan. Its pricing plans cater to various needs, including websites, blogs, courses, and eCommerce, with prices starting at around £12 per month for the Personal Plan.

• Squarespace offers a free domain for the first year.

Wix starts with lower upfront costs, but as you add features like custom domains or eCommerce, the price can quickly rise. Meanwhile, WordPress is technically free to use, but WordPress requires you to independently find a web hosting service and a domain name registrar. These components are essential for launching and maintaining a WordPress site and add to the overall expenses. You’ll also need to pay for premium themes, plugins, and potentially a developer, which can add up considerably more than you might expect.

Recommendation: Squarespace’s transparent pricing makes it easier to manage your website budget, especially if you’re a small business owner or creative entrepreneur who needs everything in one place, without worrying about unexpected costs.

7. Customer Support & Resources

Squarespace

Reliable customer support and ample resources are critical components of any website builder, facilitating efficient resolution of any issues encountered during the website construction process.

• Squarespace offers 24/7 reliable email support and live chat support during designated hours, ensuring access to help whenever needed. I find their support to be timely and efficient for both myself and my clients. It’s reassuring to know that help is available when needed.

• Squarespace also offers an excellent range of resources, including help articles, guides and videos, if you need guidance on any features and tools.

Wix

Wix provides 24/7 phone and ticket support, ensuring that help is available when needed. However, its live chat response times can be slower compared to Squarespace, which may be a concern for those who need immediate assistance.

WordPress

Unlike Wix and Squarespace, WordPress is an open-source platform and doesn't have a dedicated support team. Instead, you rely on open forums to provide answers which can be unreliable and very frustrating.

Recommendation: Squarespace’s email and live help and support is second to none, as are their help articles, videos etc.

8. Why Squarespace is the Best Choice for Most Users

Surprise, surprise - After looking at all the platforms, it’s clear that Squarespace offers the perfect balance of design excellence, ease of use, built-in e-commerce, and reliable performance.

For most entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners, Squarespace provides professional results without the steep learning curve of WordPress or the design inconsistencies of Wix.

Recommendation: If you’re looking to build a website that’s professional, easy to manage, and ready to scale with your business, Squarespace is the right choice!

User Satisfaction: A 2023 survey by TechRadar found that 86% of users rated Squarespace highly for its ease of use, particularly praising its design and template options as well as the intuitive interface for beginners.

Wrapping Up: Ready to Choose Squarespace?

If you’re feeling ready to take the next step, why not try Squarespace’s free trial and explore the beautiful templates for yourself? I’m also here to help. If you’re feeling unsure or need support in creating a site that perfectly represents your brand, I’d love to assist you in the design process.

What To Do Now?

• If you prefer email, please contact me.

• Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions and to share your vision and website goals.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

If you find writing effective web copy daunting, don’t worry, read on for my copywriting tips.

Perhaps your web copy isn’t quite resonating with your dream clients. Or, your words don’t feel authentic, or your copy doesn’t capture the value of your work.

As a web designer, I know that the visuals and user experience are crucial, but the words aka copywriting on your site are equally, if not more important.

The thing is, writing copy for your website can get confusing. It’s different from writing for school, university or work. I used to work for a law firm where I was stuck in ‘lawyer speak’. When I started my business years later, adapting to a more conversational tone felt awkward. But don’t worry.

Read my 10 tips for getting your web copy (copywriting) right ↓.

First, let’s clear up the role of copywriting

Remember, web copywriting has a job with a goal or outcome in mind. You want your web copy to:

1. Generate click-throughs

2. Improve search engine rankings

3. And let’s be honest, it should sell your products or services

All this while being:

1. Authentic to you and your brand

2. Engaging and valuable

3. Resonating with your target audience

My design process typically includes working on your web copy (unless you’re working with a separate copywriter) because the words and design need to work seamlessly.

1. Know Who You’re Talking To

By now, you’ve learned that not everyone is your cup of tea, and that’s fab! Your copy needs to speak directly to the clients you want—those who get what you do AND value your expertise.

Before jumping into copywriting, I guide clients through exercises that get you super clear on who you’re trying to attract.

• When focusing on your dream client/customer, consider what keeps them awake at night and how they talk about their struggles and desires.

• What language would they actually use? Skip jargon (unless they use it), and focus on their needs.

During our web design process, we can dive into this together to refine your messaging so your copy aligns with your visuals and target audience.

Click the button below to get your Free Canva template and to read my blog post.

2. Let Your Personality Shine Through

Your brand voice is your voice, just with the volume turned up a notch! If you’re down-to-earth, warm, and a straight-talker, your copy should feel the same. As a designer, I help you translate that into a cohesive website that not only looks great but also sounds like you.

Forget trying to sound overly corporate or formal just because you’re experienced (unless corporate is part of your brand identity). Stick to what feels natural for your brand. For one business, the vibe might be having a natter over a brew, more corporate, or something different. And if your topic is a bit boring, be creative and engaging with how you present it.

Remember, now isn’t the time for nitpicking grammar. Break some rules; start with ‘And’ or ‘Because’. Weave in your unique way of saying things.

Design and copy go hand in hand. I work with clients to create websites that make your personality shine in both how it looks and what it says.

3. Focus on Clarity Over Perfection

It’s tempting to get caught up in making your words/copy perfect, but clarity beats perfection every time.

When working on web designs, I see clients get stuck in making every word perfect. Instead, prioritise clarity. A clean, well-structured website paired with clear, direct copywriting is more effective than obsessing over every tiny detail.

We can refine it together later in our web process, or you could book a Brand Transformation: VIP Design Day. The main thing is to focus on saying what you mean and to be clear on what you offer.

Remember to remove unnecessary words, sentences and fluff that don’t add value and only share what’s relevant to your dream client.

When I work with clients, I invite them to use my Content Planning Guide via my Client Portal with web copy templates to write their words. These templates simplify the process and ensure nothing gets missed.

4. Tell Your Story, Your Way

Your website isn’t just a showcase; it’s a story. You no doubt have a wealth of experience—let it shine!

I always emphasise the importance of telling your unique backstory, the journey you’ve been on, and lessons learned—these gold threads, make you unique!

When we work together, I help you weave your story into your website so potential clients see you; not just another ‘beige’ expert. Don’t shy away from sharing what makes your journey different—your experiences, values, and approach set you apart. Your story is what connects with people on a deeper level.

Through our design process, I can help you structure your story visually and in words making sure your site feels cohesive and compelling.

Bonus Tip: Journaling can be a great way to write without feeling self-conscious. This can help you loosen up when it comes to your copywriting. Plus, you’ll have brand stories documented and ready to share when needed.

5. Benefits, Not Just Features

As a designer, I know the importance of showcasing what you offer, but clients care more about the benefits and transformations.

When designing your site, I help you highlight not just the features of your services but the benefits and transformations clients will experience by working with you. We’ll focus on painting a clear picture of how your services or products will change their business or life.

6. Speak Their Language

Your ideal clients have a way of talking about their problems, dreams, and goals.

As part of my design process, I encourage clients to reflect on past conversations and testimonials. Together, we’ll pull out key phrases that resonate with your audience and integrate them seamlessly into your web design and copy, creating a cohesive message that truly connects, making them feel seen and understood.

7. Keep It Conversational and Engaging

Your website should feel inviting, not awkward or stiff.

In design and content, we focus on creating a welcoming vibe that feels like a conversation, not a lecture. Whether we’re approaching your homepage or refining your About page copy, the goal is to keep things approachable, engaging, and true to your brand voice. Here’s a blog post I wrote about why finding your brand voice is more important than ever.

For example, if your tone is friendly, approachable, and a tad playful, stick with that. Inject a bit of humour, ask rhetorical questions, and don’t be afraid to break up your sentences for flow like in a real conversation. The goal is to create a relaxed vibe that puts clients at ease like they’re already working with you.

A note on AI: Don’t shy away from using it to brainstorm ideas, but remember, AI can’t capture your personality, unique stories, passion, or style. That’s your magic. Your brand’s essence.

Bonus Tip: I always recommend reading your words aloud, yes really! When your words flow naturally, they’re more likely to connect with your audience- and I can help you make sure the visuals match that tone.

8. Lead with Your Values and Mission

Your website should reflect what you stand for.

If you’re rebranding or updating your site, I’ll ensure that your visuals and messaging align with your values and mission.

For example, whether you’re focusing on authenticity, sustainability, or a holistic approach, these elements should shine through in your copy and design.

Your dream clients are drawn to brands that align with their values, so don’t be shy about sharing yours.

9. Strong Calls to Action, Always

A well-designed website guides users effortlessly, and strong calls to action (CTAs) are key.

I help clients craft clear, bold CTAs that align with the design and lead users to the next step, whether it’s booking a call, signing up for a newsletter, or exploring your services. Let’s keep it simple and direct—no fluff.

Bonus Tip: Be on the lookout for website copy that moves you (or the opposite!) and keep a file. Think of adverts, blogs, brands, products or services that catch your eye. This file will come in handy for whenever you need some inspiration, or what not to do!

10. Test, Tweak, and Refine

Your website and copy aren’t set in stone.

As your business grows and evolves, so should your messaging and design. I offer support to keep your site aligned with where you are now. Whether you need to update your visuals or refine your copy, I can help you stay current and effective.

Bonus Tip: Use tools such as Google Docs, Notion to draft your copy-this way, you’ll always have a backup if needed.

Wrapping It Up

Key Takeaways

1. Authentic web copy that reflects your personality is crucial for connecting with your ideal clients.

2. When it comes to copywriting, focus on clarity and the value you provide, rather than striving for perfection or just listing features.

3. Your website should tell your unique story and lead with your values to attract like-minded clients.

Whether you’re rebranding, writing blog posts, or need a new website, authentic copywriting paired with strategic web design is the key to attracting the best-fit clients. The right words and visuals create a seamless experience for your people that looks, sounds and feels like you.

Need a hand? From web audits to full rebrands, I’m here to help you create a website that truly reflects your brand—without the overwhelm. ☕💻

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads:

• 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF

• Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP

• Ideal Customer editable Canva Template

• SEO Checklist for all platforms (including Squarespace)

If you liked this, Pin to Pinterest, or save for later👇🏼.

I’ve created a FREE 5-Step Web Design Checklist PDF (sign up below). It’s packed with actionable tips and essential elements that every business website should include.

I know your time is precious, and planning a new website, or rebrand can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re mega busy or not a tech or marketing whiz.

Wherever you are on your website journey, this 12-page Free Web Design Checklist will guide you every step of the way. From enhancing user experience to boosting your site’s SEO, this checklist covers the main tasks you’ll want to check off to create a website that’s the real deal and performs exceptionally well.

A well-designed website attracts and retains clients, builds your brand’s credibility, and drives business growth.

Get Your Free 5-Step Web Design Checklist

Sign up below ⬇️ to get your 12-page download, including checklists, best practices, helpful tips and resources.

5-Steps for Creating a Successful Site

1. What Is a Hard-Working Website?

A hard-working, strategic and well-thought-out website is vital for ensuring your website looks great and loads well, is secure, can be found reliably by your ideal clients (SEO), and is responsive on all devices, keeping visitors happy.

Oh and if you’re figuring out which is best for your business, read Website Redesign vs. Rebranding.

Client portfolio - Web Design and Brand Creation

2. Clear Navigation: Guiding Your Visitors with Ease

A website with clear and intuitive navigation helps visitors find what they're looking for quickly and easily. This reduces frustration and encourages users to stay longer on your site. Simple, well-labelled menus, a visible search bar, and breadcrumb trails can make a significant difference in how your visitors interact with your content.

If you’d like some help on website navigation, read How To Create the Best Website Navigation Menu.

3. Visual Brand Identity: Making a Lasting Impression

Your website should reflect your brand’s personality through consistent use of colours, fonts, and imagery. A strong visual identity not only builds brand recognition but also establishes trust with your audience. Make sure your site’s design elements align with your overall brand strategy to create a cohesive and professional look.

I’ve written a blog post on Visual Brand Identity if you’d like to know more on this topic.

Client Visual Brand Identity Example by Jane Hinchliffe, Web Design and Brand Strategy

4. Compelling Content: Speaking Directly to Your Ideal Client

Content is king, and the words on your website should speak directly to your ideal client. Craft messages that address their needs, pain points, and aspirations. Use clear and concise language, highlight the benefits of your products or services, and include relevant keywords to boost your SEO. Engaging content keeps visitors on your site longer and encourages them to take action.

If you’re unsure how to ‘speak’ to your audience, read Why Your Brand Voice Matters to build strong connections.

And, if you’re stuck on the particulars of your ideal client, get my Free ideal customer profile Canva Template.

5. Contact Forms: Simplifying Communication

A well-designed contact form makes it easy for potential customers to get in touch with you. Keep your forms short and to the point, use clear calls to action, and ensure they are mobile-friendly. Regularly test your forms to ensure they work properly and provide a seamless experience for users.

My contact page example

The Takeaway:

Your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. By focusing on these key elements, you can create a professional, user-friendly site that attracts and converts visitors. Don’t forget to download my Free 5-Step Web Design Checklist ⬆️.

Needing Help?

Let’s chat! Schedule your Free (no obligation) Discovery Call to ask any questions.

Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.

Subscribe here for Free downloads: Uncover Your Unique Selling Proposition USP, Ideal Customer editable Canva Template, and an SEO Checklist for Squarespace (or other platforms).

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Do you ever feel like your brand is lost in a sea of competition? Like you’re shouting into the void, and your website messaging and brand just aren't resonating with your target audience?

Discover how to articulate your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and harness the power using my Free 13-page Brand Magic Guide. Perfect for small business owners seeking brand clarity and differentiation from others doing similar work.

First off, you're not alone. In a world saturated with businesses vying for attention, standing out can feel like an insurmountable challenge.

But here's the secret 🤫:

You already have everything you need to differentiate your brand. You just need to uncover it.

As a Squarespace website designer and brand strategist, I love helping small business owners like coaches, educators, consultants, creatives, nutritionists, and other professional service providers. My services are designed to elevate your brand and create a website that truly resonates with your target audience, ensuring you stand out and attract your dream clients.

Unlock Your Brand Magic: Articulating Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP).

That's where my trusty 13-page Brand Magic Guide comes in. This free Guide walks you through the process of identifying your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) - that special something that sets your brand apart and draws your ideal customers in.

My Guide is designed to bring clarity to your branding activities. It will help you craft your brand message, position your brand in the market, and develop a compelling brand identity. Whether refining your existing strategy or starting fresh, this resource is invaluable.

The Brand Magic Guide is packed with value, including:

• Clear, step-by-step instructions to help you identify your ‘Brand Magic’ aka USP

• Helpful tips for how to write your USP effectively

• A variety of brainstorming questions and exercises to get your creative juices flowing

• Real-life business examples

• Bonus: Uncover your ESP (Emotional Selling Point)