My Custom Web Design Process: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Getting an entirely new website for your business is a big deal—like, huge. It could be the difference between landing your dream client or missing out on that brand partnership you’ve been working toward. That’s why having a custom web design process that’s strategic, seamless, and tailored to your business is so important. You need a site that feels like you, represents your brand in the best way possible, and is built to guide visitors through their journey. That’s exactly what I create for my clients.

But let’s be real: picking a web designer isn’t something you should rush into. There are so many of us out there, and the truth is, we might not all be the right fit.

Who I Work With

I work with business owners who are ready to step things up and take their online presence seriously. Whether you’re:

• A new entrepreneur wanting to set yourself up for years of success with a strategic and professional website
• An established business owner who’s outgrown your DIY site and is ready to level up
• A seasoned pro (10+ years in business) looking for a total rebrand, a site that reflects where your business is now, or a pivot in your offerings

I bring confidence, creativity, and over eight years of experience to every project. But beyond that, I’m just a normal mom running a business in between soccer games and packed lunches. I stay up way too late watching Bravo, I’m deep in my own self-healing journey, and I get how much a good website matters—because I’ve been exactly where you are. In 2016, my own business was taking off, and I needed a site that could keep up. So, being the stubborn perfectionist I am, I figured out how to design beautiful, high-converting websites. Now, I do it for others.

Step 1: Inquiry & Discovery Call

Your custom web design process starts with an inquiry and a free 30-minute discovery call. This is where we:

• Talk through your project and what you’re looking for
• Go over my process and what you can expect
• Make sure we’re a good fit

If everything feels right, I’ll send over your client portal, which includes your contract, invoice (with a 25% non-refundable deposit to secure your spot), welcome guide, and branding workbook.

Step 2 of my custom web design process: The Branding & Strategy Phase

Your branding workbook is where I get the full picture. I want to know everything:

• The why behind your business
• Who you help
• What styles resonate with you (and what definitely doesn’t)
• A Pinterest board filled with inspiration

This deep dive helps me truly understand who you are and how we can make your website feel like home.

You’ll also receive:

• Access to your Dropbox folder
• Website Strategy & Content Worksheets

These worksheets guide you through your client journey and what to include on each page. They also include an SEO lesson to help you optimize your content and images before uploading. Since this step is crucial, I give clients plenty of time to complete it thoughtfully.

A second 25% payment is due the day before your project start date.

Step 3: Design & Development

On your start date, I’ll review your materials and send over a mood board to confirm we’re on the same page. Then, the magic happens:

• Day 2: Home page design delivered for feedback & revisions
• Once approved, I move on to additional pages
• At this stage, a 30% payment is due
• I complete the remaining pages and send them for final approval
• Any necessary revisions are made

Once everything is approved, we move into offboarding:

• You receive a walk-through video detailing your new website
• You gain access to my video tutorial library
• You get an offboarding guide with everything you need to know moving forward

Final 20% payment is due at this stage, and I begin the DNS transfer and final SEO setup to ensure your site is set up for success.

Step 4: Launch & Support

Your custom web design process doesn’t stop at the final approval. I create launch graphics for you to share on social media or in your newsletter. Once you’re ready to launch, I feature your new site in my portfolio and social channels.

After launch, you get a two-week support period where I’m fully available to answer questions, make minor changes, and provide additional help videos if needed.

Step 5: Ongoing Support (If You Need It)

When our project wraps up, you’ll have a website you’re proud to share. But just because our work is officially done doesn’t mean I disappear! I offer VIP days for ongoing support, updates, or additional pages. And let’s be honest—I’ll probably still be cheering you on in your Instagram comments.

Because I don’t take on clients I don’t genuinely believe in. I want you to win, and I’ll do everything in my nerdy, tech-loving power to make that happen.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re feeling excited about what we could create together, let’s chat! Fill out my inquiry form, and we’ll set up a time to talk. I can’t wait to hear more about your vision and bring it to life!