FAQs
Any questions? Before emailing me, you may find the answers here to questions about my web design, development, and hosting services.
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!
For businesses that need a simple online presence, a static site is the perfect solution. The only tradeoff is that you won’t be able to update the content yourself, as static sites don’t come with a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress—they’re built using raw HTML and CSS. This means any content changes will need to be handled by a developer. If that’s a concern, I have a couple of solutions:
- Infrequent Edits: If you only need to make small tweaks now and then—like updating images, opening hours, or pricing—my hosting service with content support is your best bet. This option is designed for those occasional updates. Read more hosting options.
- Frequent Edits: If you expect to need more regular updates but don’t have the budget for a monthly content retainer, consider investing in a WordPress site. It’s a bigger upfront investment, but it gives you a bespoke site with full control over your content, allowing you to make changes whenever you need. If your budget won't stretch that far, a third-party DIY platform like Wix or Squarespace might be a better fit for you.
You can use this tool to find and register an available domain name: 20i Domain Name Registration. If you prefer, I can register the domain for you and handle the renewals. In that case, the cost will be the domain price plus a small fee for my time. Check the price list for the current rates.
Nope, I don’t handle email. While it might seem straightforward, when things go wrong, email can turn into a major headache. It’s a critical part of any business, and troubleshooting issues and understandably angry clients is just something I don't want in my life.
Setting up webmail is pretty straightforward, but guiding clients on how to configure their usual email client—like Outlook or Mac Mail—adds a layer of complexity. Sure, there are solutions like video tutorials or remote screen sharing, but I’ve been down that road before. Dealing with issues like clients' email clients randomly losing their accounts, managing spam, and all the other headaches that can pop up—it just isn’t worth the stress for a few extra pennies.
If you need a domain-based email address, I recommend using reliable services like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or Zoho.
Yes, I do. I have years of experience creating bespoke WordPress themes, and a significant portion of my client portfolio consists of WordPress sites. In my day job as a Senior Frontend Developer at Harris Creative, I lead the web department, building custom WordPress themes and components for major players in the construction industry. I'm also part of Codeable, a highly vetted community of international WordPress developers.
However, I would only recommend going down the WordPress route if you:
- Have the budget for it.
- Are keen to update your content frequently yourself.
- Feel comfortable learning the WordPress dashboard, or have some prior experience.
Setting up a WordPress site so non-developers can update content is a lot work, and that’s reflected in the price. If you’re unsure, I'd say a static site is probably the better option for your first website.