Web Design 101
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Understanding Upfront + Annual Costs

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even if you decide to diy, there are no free rides.

First let’s address the elephant in the room, the cost of design. This is where I throw up my hands and say “I don’t know…yet” Every designer prices their work differently and cost can vary broadly based on years of experience and additional services. Throughout this exercise you will be gathering information that you should discuss with whoever you decide to work with to ensure you are on the same page and have a full understanding of expectations and needs.

Aside from design, the basics - which are required* - are your CMS tool and domain, everything else is dependent on your specific needs:

  • The annual cost of Squarespace and Wix are approximately the same and start around $250 per year if paid annually. Monthly options are also available but typically increase your total annual fees by 20-30%.

    WordPress is technically free but a hosting is required.

  • Some CMS tools waive your domain cost for the first year but generally speaking, expect to pay approx. $15-20 annually.

  • Hosting costs are included in Squarespace and Wix plans but a separate hosting plan is required for WordPress. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of your WP Host. Things to consider are backups, staging, support and site speed. For all of my WP clients, I recommend WP Engine.

  • WordPress requires a variety of plugins to accomplish your design. While many are free be sure to understand any upfront or ongoing cost. This would be especially important on eCommerce sites.

    Same goes with Squarespace and Wix. This is something you should discuss with your designer.

  • There are many tools to consider so understanding your specific needs is key. Are you simply booking free consults or are you scheduling classes or services for a team? It’s also important to understand how this integrates with your site and the overall user experience.

  • Again, loads of free stock images if needed but for something more specialized you may need to license them. Or if you require editorial, product or headshots; a photographer might be required.

  • This might be a consideration if you need help writing the copy for your site. Be sure you understand their areas of focus and ask for work examples.

  • There are loads of free resources for graphics but if you need something specialized it might require a graphic designer.

  • Again, there are endless options. but I recommend Mailchimp or Squarespace. Mailchimp has a free option dependent on number of subscribers and emails sent monthly. For Squarespace users, their email marketing makes sense as the design for emails is similar in look and feel. Plans start at $5 but best to understand total cost, again based on subscribers and emails sent.

  • I provide training as part of my hand-off process. The goal is for my clients to be able to make ongoing updates on their own but not everyone has time or interest. For those clients, I provide monthly maintenance plans or bill hourly as needed.