I enjoy building websites using Squarespace so they may be a functional tool for any small business or service. Part of that work also includes helping the owners of small businesses learn how to manage their website from the back end after I’m finished building, if they’re interested in doing so. In my past work I’ve helped in researching and installing free appointment making tools and email subscription services to client’s websites.
I’ve found that the tools of Squarespace allow me to design in an intuitive way which also helps my clients be able to manage their own site after it’s completed. They can do things like add products, add a comma/new paragraph detail on a page or edit parts of their site that will change over time, by themselves.
Read about each step in the process below.
Phase 1
First we start out with an initial consultation via phone. I’m happy to talk through what your website needs are and how big the project will be! This phase is to determine if Squarespace is the right fit for you and your vision. If there are any design details you would like to have on your site, we can also discuss those. You will have homework: to pick out your favorite template from Squarespace and let me know which one works best for you. Every template is very customizable but your pick will help me get a sense of how you want your website to flow and what designs you’re attracted to.
Phase 2
If we’ve determined that Squarespace is the right fit for you, and you’ve found a template you like, the next phase is for me to make a demo account and build your starter site. I will need a 50% deposit for this phase. Also at this point, I might need to ask small questions here and there concerning design or accessing files (if you have a logo or high res photos you’d like to include). Text communication speeds up this process but email is also workable. Any information I do not have or areas where I do not have your verbiage yet, I will write a note for you with prompts.
Phase 3
During the last phase of the process, I will give you a demo link and password to view what I’ve built. This allows you to make notes to edit and tweak what I’ve made while being able to test it out. It’s much easier to edit and create verbiage for your business with something already in front of you, rather than a phantom idea for a website. After I get your notes (via text or phone call), I will go back and make all of your changes and fill in the missing verbiage. If you’re happy with the finished product, I will collect the last half of my fee. Then, I’ll hook up a domain ($20 purchased through Squarespace) and launch your website to be public.
Phase 4
If you already have a domain, I will transfer it from the third party site or, if that isn’t possible, I will point your domain to the website I have built. It is possible to have a domain through a domain host like Godaddy and hosting/serving your website on Squarespace, it just tends to be more a more expensive subscription package.
After your site is launched, we’ll schedule a training time through facetime/share screen or a phone call. I like to show my clients how to manage their site from the back end. We can go through the back end of Squarespace on desktop or mobile, newsletter options and other appointment making apps and Squarespace Ecommerce app. If you’re uninterested in maintaining your own site, I have a document with directions for how to make small changes through the Squarespace app I can send over.