It's a simple 3-step process:
1. Scope
If we're a , we'll arrange a call. I run a virtual agency so this is usually a video call to say hello and discuss your requirements. Afterwards, I'll send a scope of work for you to review. If you're happy to proceed, you sign and return it, pay 50% deposit and I start work.
2. Design
Based on your style preferences and any existing brand guidelines, I'll design the pages of your site. This is a budget service so there won't be endless rounds of revisions. The good news is I tend to get things right first time 😜. Once you approve the design I start the build.
3. Build
I take the approved designs and code them up into a beautiful working website. Remember, this will be a static site, meaning no CMS like WordPress, it's just pure HTML and CSS - simple, secure and built to last for years. If you need me to host the site, I'll arrange this too.
Some key points...
What is a static site?
A static site is a simple website, just HTML and CSS—like sites used to be built. (FYI, this website is a static site!) They work just like every other website except there's no complicated Content Management System (CMS) behind the scenes, like WordPress. This makes static sites faster, more secure, and longer-lasting. The only trade-off? You'll need a web developer for updates. They're perfect for businesses on a budget, those needing a quick online presence, or companies that don't need to update their site often.
Why not WordPress?
WordPress is powerful—I've spent years building many bespoke sites using it. But to build and configure one so non-technical users can manage the content themselves takes time and is very costly. The good news? Most small businesses don't need that complexity. If you're just starting out or need a simple brochure site (Home, About, Services, Contact), static sites are a perfect budget-friendly solution. And when you're ready to grow, you can always upgrade to WordPress or another platform later.
You own it, I host it
When I mention that a static site needs a developer to make updates, some clients worry. But there's no need to. Think of your website like a car: You own it, but you wouldn't install a new engine, upgrade the suspension, or repaint it yourself—you'd go to a mechanic. The same goes for your website. You own it, but adding new pages, features, or making updates requires a specialist. That's where I come in—your web mechanic—taking care of the technical work so you can focus on running your business, hands-off and stress-free.
Virtual = Affordable
I leverage AI to run a streamlined, one-person team. It's 2024 and freely-available AI technology has given us all superpowers. It allows us to work faster and smarter. Plus, with no physical office, employee costs, or expensive content writers, I'm able to keep my overheads low. All of this means I can work faster and offer higher-quality services for lower-cost than traditional agencies. Oh, and by the way, AI helped me write this content—not too shabby, right? 😉
Simple and transparent
In 2024, trust is the biggest currency in business. This service aims to be simple and 100% transparent. And trust goes both ways. If you're expecting me to build the next Amazon on a shoe-string budget or insist on endless design revisions, then we're not the right fit. But if you want a simple, well designed brochure site that is fast, secure, long-lasting and you expect to pay for any major updates when needed (as you would a mechanic if your car needed work doing) then this is the service for you. Still interested? See if we're a match!
So who am I? 🤔
I'm a front-end web developer and designer who enjoys creating simple, well-designed, and functional websites.
I run a streamlined, one-person virtual agency in the UK that values transparency and simplicity. I specialise in creating no-nonsense, well-designed websites for small businesses with clear pricing, so you know exactly what you're getting upfront. When I'm not working, I enjoy travelling with my partner and exploring the Yorkshire countryside with our family dog, Millie. 💕
I have happy clients 😇
"I used Richard's services to help with my website and found him to be very helpful, knowledgeable and very approachable to work with. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wishing to start a website."
"Love the design of our site. Didn't have a website until Richard built one for us, so didn't know what to expect. But so happy with it, easy to use and brings in business from London for wedding hair and such like. Really pleased, Would highly recommend!"
"Richard was a helpful guide through the whole process of establishing a fully functioning and attractive website for our business. His swift responses to queries was much appreciated."
Frequently Asked Questions
A static site is a simple website, just HTML and CSS—like sites used to be built. (FYI, this website is a static site!) They work just like every other website except there's no complicated Content Management System (CMS) behind the scenes, like WordPress. This makes static sites faster, more secure, and longer-lasting. The only trade-off? You'll need a web developer for updates. They're perfect for businesses on a budget, those needing a quick online presence, or companies that don't need to update their site often.
Typically, around 6 weeks for a standard 4-page brochure site. This timeline starts from when the 50% deposit is paid and runs through to the site launch.
£300/year for hosting only, or £400/year for hosting with content support. Content support includes occasional content updates to existing content, such as pricing changes, opening hour tweaks, or updating images. This way, we can skip the hassle and the admin required to quote and invoice for small updates—simpler for everyone.
Note: This support is designed to simplify things for everyone. It's intended for small, infrequent updates to existing content, not a free-for-all. By that I mean requests for significant new content—like adding a new page or feature—will be quoted separately. Read more about this service.
Absolutely, you can host your own site! There are plenty of budget-friendly options out there like GoDaddy, SiteGround, and Hostinger. Just keep in mind though, like any DIY project, you’ll need to invest some time and effort to figure it all out. But if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and dive in, it's definitely the cheaper option. On the otherhand, if you don’t mind spending a bit more to have someone else take care of it all for you, my managed service is the way to go. Read more about my hosting plans.
50% before starting work. 50% on completion. All agreed-upon work will be outlined in a scope of work document, which will need to be signed before I start work. This way, we’re both know what to expect from the outcome.
A virtual agency operates entirely online, meaning no physical office and no travel costs for in-person meetings. This flexibility allows me to offer services unrestricted by proximity or location, with clients in different counties across the UK and even in the USA. By leveraging technology, I can conduct video calls and collaborate efficiently, saving both time and money. If there's one positive change from the pandemic, it's the understanding that business can be done entirely virtually—and much more efficiently. So if you're not comfortable working this way, we might not be the right fit!
That's all
I can't think of anything else to say... 🤷♂️
If you have any questions, email richard@acedigitaldesign.com
(PS I'm not on social media. Turns out I'm more of the 'quiet genius' type. Soz.)
