Behind the Scenes of a Website Build: My Process from Strategy to Launch
Ever wondered what really goes into a website build? Behind the scenes of a big investment like your online presence? Let me walk you through how we go from vision to launch with our clients because you just might catch yourself thinking, “Oh yeah, I’m actually ready for this!”
I know what the hesitation to make large investments feels like. It’s funny how we tend to think we’re not quite there yet—I’ll do the website / photos / [insert any investment] when I get to some unknown place over there. It’s like a mix of imposter syndrome and feeling too scattered that often holds us back.
My goal with this breakdown is to help you see yourself in our process because not only is a new website going to support your business, it’s going to help you get your arms wrapped around everything. It’s like a home renovation where you have to empty everything from your house and decide what stays and what goes. You stay in CEO mode, making high level decisions and letting us do our magic to deliver a beautiful, functional website that helps you look good and get paid online.
Let’s go!
Phase 1: Onboarding + Design Prep
What happens: Pre-design homework, organizational setup, foundational copywriting, branding, site map
In this initial phase there is more work for you but I promise it pays off! It’s important that me and my team get as much information as possible so we can set you (and us) up for success. You’ll complete a Pinterest project, answer an in-depth questionnaire, and send us website content and branding photos. If you don’t have these yet, no worries, we’ll hook you up! In fact, we like helping with this part because we can all work together. Our copywriting partner will work her magic with your words and we’ll guide the photographer to get the money making shots!
Once we have everything we need on our end, we’ll get to work creating a site map that outlines what each page of your website will include so that we know exactly how to design it. You’ll also get a wire frame here so you can see the basic layout, making sure the functionality is there without the distraction of color and photos.
Curious what the pre-design homework looks like? Email me and ask for the Pinterest Project and Client Questionnaire. Happy to send those your way even if you’re not ready to work with us on a website yet.
Phase 2: Design + Refine
What happens: Mood boards, branding, and website concepts
This is often a client favorite because all of that work that went into the initial prep is finally revealed through a mood board, branding, and website concepts. This is when you see your brand the way we, and others see it. It’s where the quality of the work you do in this world is finally met with a visual identity that fits.
You’ll be given a digital book and video that walks through your new brand and website concepts. If there are any changes you want to make or things you want to try, this is when we’ll do it. Once refined and approved, we move into the more technical part of building the website.
Want to see a real client mood board? Click here and check it out on our Instagram grid.
Phase 3: Build + Launch
What happens: Site build in Squarespace or WordPress with basic SEO (H1 tags, image alt text), mobile optimization, forms & integrations, final testing, and launch support
With the approved design concepts, we’ll build out each page of your website with love, making sure it strikes that perfect balance of functionality and timeless design. We implement basic search engine optimization so that your website is set up for long-term success. After your website goes live, we will go over options for tutorials you may need, as well as ongoing support and maintenance, including our monthly marketing membership! I love to continue walking alongside my clients as they continue to grow and evolve.
The magic woven into this process
→ Clear phases and tasks mean you’re never wondering “what’s next?”
→ Strategy and copy are woven in from day one…because design without clarity just isn’t the vibe.
→ Intentional checkpoints make space for your voice, your feedback, and your growth.
→ It’s built around your life. Those of us juggling motherhood, business, rest (lol), and dreams need our own kind of process.
If you’re reading this thinking, “Okay, yeah… I’m ready,” — then let’s talk.
👉 Click here to start the conversation
You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
You just have to take the first step — I’ve got you from there.
To your success!
Meghan