Is it truly possible to create a professional and fully functional website in just two weeks? That is indeed a great question! In my experience, I have successfully utilized this method of designing websites for a wide range of clients across various industries. Being able to dedicate two full weeks to the comprehensive design and development of a website for a client is an exceptional opportunity that often allows for creativity, attention to detail, and client collaboration.

Once all information is received from the client a website build doesn’t take more than a week. If I have all the information, I can build a website in a week and then make all necessary changes that the client would like the second week. A clear process outlined from the beginning will help move the design process along and make sure the client receives exactly what they want without waiting weeks or months. The timeframe is discussed in the initial consultation call.  

I like to take the opportunity to introduce myself to my clients whenever we have a conversation, whether it’s during our discussions, through my professional website, or by using the brochures that I thoughtfully send to them. I am genuinely excited to have embarked on this journey of starting my own business as a dedicated website designer. With a wealth of experience working with small businesses, corporations, and nonprofits, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of their unique needs. Over the years, I have successfully built numerous websites, and I am truly passionate about helping others achieve their goals through effective online solutions.

INTRODUCTION - DONNA MAY 

My experience in small businesses has profoundly shaped my perspective on the importance of effective web design. Growing up in an entrepreneurial household, I witnessed firsthand the dedication required to transform visions into reality. This foundation continued to influence me as I navigated the corporate world, where I gained valuable insights into enduring business practices.

During my volunteer work with non-profit organizations, I recognized the crucial role that a well-designed website plays in communication and engagement. However, I also observed a frustrating trend—many organizations struggled with websites that were not user-friendly, making it difficult for them to keep their information current. This realization sparked my passion for creating accessible and manageable web solutions.

Discovering the Squarespace platform was a turning point for me. I appreciated its intuitive design and the freedom it gave me to craft visually appealing websites. Each project reinforced my belief in the importance of empowering clients. I focus on equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to update their websites independently, ensuring they have control over their online presence. My commitment lies in facilitating this empowerment through professional, user-friendly design that meets the unique needs of each client.

INITIAL CONSULTATION MEETING 

This call usually lasts about 30 minutes, during which the client and website designer have the opportunity to establish rapport and gain a solid understanding of each other's working styles to determine if they would collaborate effectively together. In this initial meeting, we introduce ourselves and engage in an in-depth discussion regarding the scope of the project, outlining goals and expectations. Following the call, I promptly send over detailed pricing information for the most suitable package that aligns with the specific needs of the client, as well as a contract and an invoice for half of the total cost. The remaining half will be invoiced just before the training/teaching session, at which point the website is officially handed over to the client.

Three meetings are set up once the contract is signed: 

• Pre-Design meeting 

• Week 1 Review 

• Teaching or Training Meeting 

PRE-DESIGN MEETING 

The two-week model begins with a comprehensive Pre-Design meeting that takes place prior to the two-week website build phase. Before this important meeting, a detailed Project Form filled with numerous customized questions is delivered to the client. This form enables clients to thoughtfully consider and articulate what they truly want and need in a website that reflects their vision. It covers vital areas regarding the overall design of the website, as well as any necessary functionality, such as e-commerce capabilities, appointment scheduling, and more. Following the completion of the Project Form, the Pre-Design meeting is held to discuss the client's responses. After this meeting, the client is assigned “homework.” This homework encompasses everything from crafting all the necessary content to selecting images, providing photographs, organizing inventories, compiling legal documents, and much more. There is ample time allocated for the client to complete these essential tasks before the two-week design build officially begins.

WEEK 1 

Week 1 is mostly the responsibility of the website designer. In my business I receive all the information through a client portal. I lay out this information and based on the notes from the Pre-Design meeting I begin to build a website.  

On Friday of the first week the client and website designer meet to review the website. Any suggestions from the client are appreciated during the meeting. After the meeting, the client will have read-only private access to their website for further review.  

WEEK 2 

The client has all weekend through Wednesday at 1pm of Week 2 to request an unlimited number of changes. 

On Thursday of Week 2 the client will receive a Digital Guide of how to use their website. This guide should be printed out so the client can take notes at the final meeting/teaching session on Friday of the second week. This guide will encompass customized additions to their website and more generalized information about Squarespace. I will show you your website and show you how to make changes to your website.  

CELEBRATION 

The final deposit invoice will be sent to the client ahead of the Teaching and Training Session. Once the remaining balance is received, I will turn over ownership of the website to the client. The client can choose the launch date for their website, and I will show them the toggle switch they need to change for their website to go LIVE. This is an exciting time!  

TWO WEEK DESIGN BUILD 

A Two-Week Website Design build will ensure that you have the website designer's undivided time. I want my client to receive the website they envisioned for their small business or organization. Something that they can learn how to update themselves and really enjoy. A website should not be a moment in time but should change and be updated as the business or organization changes.  

As you plan every aspect of your business or organization a website will be something everyone sees. You want it to reflect who and what the business or organization is all about. For everyone this is different. Look at my blog post, 5 Important Benefits of May Web Design.  

In my Welcome Package to new clients, I make sure they know their responsibilities as well as mine.  

May Web Design, LLC specializes in refreshing and creating affordable websites that empower clients to take ownership of their online presence and easily make updates themselves using the efficient Squarespace platform. I truly enjoy assisting clients in increasing customer engagement through their websites while simultaneously improving their overall web presence in a meaningful way. The most important aspect of my business is that once I have completed and thoroughly reviewed the website with a client, I dedicate time to teach them how to update and maintain their website so that they can keep it looking fresh and new over time. A well-designed website offers a 24/7 welcome to prospective members, showcasing what your business or organization has accomplished thus far and outlining what you plan to achieve in the future. If built correctly, it should not only welcome visitors to the site but also guide them around in a comfortable and engaging manner.

If you are interested in discussing the needs of a website for your business or nonprofit organization, contact May Web Design, LLC. Starting out with a basic brochure website may be all that your business or organization needs. Your website should grow with you and change as needed. 

I work with my clients so that I may design the website they envision and, most importantly, teach them how to update their website to keep the information fresh and new. While you are busy building your small business or nonprofit, I can create a website to grow with your dreams. I have a list of services on my website as well as a portfolio of my websites and testimonial from past clients. You may even set up a free 30 minute initial consultation call to discuss your website project.