Squarespace Circle Interview with Sharon Reaves, Reaves Projects

Circle: What were you doing before you started Reaves Projects?
Sharon: Ha! The list is long. I’ve worked in finance, software startups, non-profits and art organizations. I owned an art gallery and managed a private art collection. It’s an odd mix but I think it allows me to have a better grasp of both the business, economics and aesthetics that go into creating a website and online brand.

C: How did you get started with Squarespace?
S: I had been designing sites for myself and friends for several years and I really loved it. When a friend mentioned wanting to start her own business I literally begged her to let me design her site. She agreed but said she wanted to use Squarespace, which I had never worked with at that point. I dove in and started her project but cut to the chase, you can in fact be fired even if the work is free. I just didn’t have the knowledge or the confidence and she needed a pro but that epic fail was the spark I needed to become a Squarespace expert. 10 years later it’s my go-to!

C: How did Squarespace simplify the website building process for you?
S: I have worked with most CMS tools and took several development courses. I am a very visual person so coding - while super useful as a skill - is not how I want to spend my time. Squarespace provides me with an excellent visual storytelling tool. I can quickly draft out a site for my clients and show them what is possible. It also allows me to empower them to manage the site going forward.

C: Why do you think Squarespace is a good fit for creatives?
S: It sounds silly but Squarespace makes my brain happy. The drag and drop editor allows me to try things out and instantly see the results.

C: What about Squarespace made you decide to build your practice around this platform?
S: It’s a very intuitive process for me and a way I feel I can truly make a difference and inspire others. Sometimes you just need to see your idea online to make it real.

C: What’s your favorite part about running your practice on Squarespace?
S: The variety of clients. I’ve worked with artists, entrepreneurs, lawyers, investment firms, fashion brands, makeup studios, nail artists…. I love being a guest in their unique worlds and creating an online presence that mirrors their voice and their vision. It just goes to show how diverse Squarespace’s outreach is and how so many different clients use it and make it their own.

C: What advice would you give to someone considering Squarespace Circle as a professional endeavor?
S: Do it! Zero regrets, super helpful and empowering. It’s a true community with so many amazing resources and people.

C: What Circle perks or resources do you use most and how do leverage them?
S: I really miss the face-to-face lunch and learn sessions in NY and really felt like part of a team but I seem to spend a lot of time in the Forum looking for customization tricks and tips. The community is very helpful and generous. Also Circle Day is epic! So many helpful talks about how to run your business.

C: What’s your take on the six-month trial?
S: It’s a huge perk. I laugh when clients ask when they can expect their site to be done. If someone is super organized, 14 days is enough on my end but let’s just say that’s not often their reality. The 6 months removes the pressure and need to subscribe until they are 100% sold on the design and the solution.

C: How has your personal life changed since you’ve become a Squarespace professional?
S: I get to create a life that works for me. If I wake up at 3am, I can work for a few hours then go back to bed. If the sun is out one afternoon I can take a break to explore the city. I am accountable to my clients and myself, not clocks.

C: Anything else you would like to share about Squarespace or being a Circle member?
S: Squarespace changed my life. It has allowed me to create a life and a living doing what I love and am excellent at. I love my clients and find it very rewarding when we make that connection, you know you understood their goals and the site goes live. Best compliment ever was when a client saw the first draft of her site and said she cried. She didn’t think Squarespace could do what she wanted. I’m not saying I told you so but….