3 Must-Haves Before Diving Into Your Website Design
Have you seen the latest trend?
Designers and agencies everywhere are offering DIY courses and kits to help you get your marketing needs done super fast (a week, 3 days, maybe even a day), without any lengthy back and forth or overwhelm.
If I’m being honest, I love these kits (and that’s not sarcasm). I am all about empowering entrepreneurs with the tools to take on what they can on their own, so they can leave the hiring-out for the area where they need the most help. But...
There’s a catch. While these kits are fantastic for quick wins and getting some things off the ground, diving into your website design without the right foundation can lead to a lackluster, incomplete site that’s just not converting. Before you even think about colors, fonts, or that all-important homepage layout, here are three absolute must-haves that will set you up for success.
1. A Solid Brand Strategy
Before you even touch the design tools, ask yourself: Who am I talking to? What are their wants, desires, fears, and struggles? What makes my brand voice unique, and how do I ensure it resonates at every touchpoint? A well-defined brand strategy is the backbone of your website. It’s what makes your site more than just a pretty face. It’s the difference between speaking to your ideal clients and getting lost in the noise. Without it, your site might look good, but it won’t connect—or convert.
2. A Cohesive Visual Identity
Your website design isn’t just about looking good; it’s about looking consistent. That means every visual element—from your logo to your color palette, to the typefaces you choose—needs to work together seamlessly. A cohesive visual identity ensures that your brand is instantly recognizable and that every interaction with your site feels like a continuation of the same story. Inconsistency, on the other hand, can confuse your audience and dilute your brand message.
3. Strong Photography
Never underestimate the power of strong visuals, especially when it comes to photography. Whether it's brand photography that captures you in your element, product photos that make your offerings irresistible, or food images that leave your audience hungry for more, quality photography is non-negotiable. Your images should do more than just fill space; they should tell your brand’s story, evoke emotion, and drive action. Without strong photography, even the most beautifully designed site can fall flat.
Bottom Line...
Empower yourself with those DIY kits and quick-start courses, but don’t skimp on the essentials. Invest time and energy into crafting a solid brand strategy, building a cohesive visual identity, and sourcing strong photography. With these three must-haves in place, your website will not only look good but will also be primed to connect, engage, and convert. And if you need help getting these elements just right, well, that’s where the pros come in.