How to Prepare to Work with a Website Designer: Complete Overview
Working with a website designer can completely transform your business.
A well-designed website is often the first impression your potential clients have of your brand, and it can make a big difference in how they perceive you.
But like anything important, preparation is key to ensuring the process is smooth and, most importantly, that you end up with a website you absolutely love.
Before starting the actual design process I require my clients to gather all the necessary materials.
So imagine this: you’re excited to finally invest in a new website, but halfway through the preparation process, you realize you’re not sure what you want the site to look like, and you are not sure what your brand voice is, you don’t have photos or copy you want to see on your website.
This can lead to delays, frustration, or even a result that doesn’t meet your expectations. Many business owners face this issue—they know they need a new website, but they’re unsure of what to prepare ahead of time.
Don’t worry, though! By following a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to collaborate with your designer, making the process faster, easier, and more enjoyable. This guide will walk you through how to get everything in order before starting your project, so you end up with a website that truly reflects your unique brand and vision.
Let’s dive into how you can set yourself up for success when working with a website designer.
Step 1: You need to understand your brand and goals!
Before your website designer can create something truly special for your business, they need to understand who you are, what you offer, and where you’re headed.
Think of it like giving someone the ingredients to bake a cake — if they don’t know whether you want a chocolate cake or a vanilla one, they won’t be able to give you exactly what you’re hoping for.
The same goes for your website: a clear vision of your brand identity will help your designer craft a site that perfectly aligns with your voice and values.
What to Prepare:
#1 A brand mission and vision statement
This is the heart of your business. What are you here to do, and what do you believe in?
For example, if you run a wellness spa, your mission might be to help clients find balance and peace in their everyday lives. Your vision could be to become the go-to sanctuary for self-care in your local community.
#2 Clear target audience and ideal client profiles
Think about who you want to attract with your website. Are they busy moms looking for a beauty break, or are they young professionals seeking wellness services? Knowing exactly who your clients are helps your designer create a site that speaks directly to their needs.
#3 Business goals
Be clear on what you want your website to achieve. Do you want to increase bookings? Grow your email list? Attract more high-quality leads? These goals will guide the design and functionality of the site.
For example, if your goal is to boost bookings, the designer might prioritize an easy-to-use online booking system on the homepage.
✏️ Tip: Take some time to reflect on what makes your brand unique. Maybe it’s the personal touch you add to every service, the special ingredients in your products, or the story behind why you started your business.
Writing down these key details will help your designer weave them into the design, making sure your website feels like a true reflection of who you are.
The more your designer understands your brand, the better they can create a digital space that feels like you.
Step 2: Gather Inspiration For Your Future Website
Your website designer will be able to create something beautiful and functional, but to get there, they need a little insight into your personal style.
Think of it like getting a haircut — it’s much easier for the stylist to give you the look you want if you show them pictures of hairstyles you love.
Designers work the same way. The more visual references you provide, the faster they can understand your taste and create a website that feels just right for you.
What to Prepare:
#1 Examples of websites you like
Start by finding a few websites that catch your eye, even if they’re not related to your industry. Maybe you love the clean and calming vibe of a wellness site or the vibrant, bold colors of a beauty blog.
Don’t worry about whether they’re exactly like your business — what matters is identifying elements that speak to you.
#2 Notes on what specifically appeals to you
As you browse, take note of what you like about each site. Is it the way the layout is clean and easy to navigate? The use of soft, natural colors? Or maybe the fonts are playful yet professional. These details help your designer understand the "feel" you’re going for.
#3 Your favorite colors, fonts, and imagery
If you already have a few key visual elements in mind — like specific colors, fonts, or images that represent your brand — share those with your designer.
For example, if your beauty studio is all about relaxation and renewal, you might lean toward soft pastels and calming imagery. If your wellness brand is energetic and modern, maybe you prefer bold colors and clean lines.
Create a Pinterest board.
✏️ Tip: A great way to organize your inspiration is by creating a mood board. Pinterest is a simple and fun tool for this. You can pin websites, color palettes, fonts, and images that resonate with you. This visual guide gives your designer a clearer sense of the direction you’re heading and speeds up the process of creating something that matches your vision.
A little preparation here can go a long way and make a big difference, ensuring your designer gets it right the first time!
Step 3: Outline Your Website’s Purpose and Structure
Every successful website has a clear purpose. Whether you're looking to attract more bookings, sell products, or simply increase brand awareness, knowing what you want your website to achieve will guide its overall design.
What to Prepare:
#1 A list of pages you need
Start by listing out the core pages for your website. A few must-haves might include:
Homepage: The first impression — a snapshot of what your business offers.
Services: Detailed descriptions of your offerings.
About: Your story, values, and what sets your business apart.
Contact: A simple way for clients to get in touch, ask questions, or book a service.
Depending on your business, you might also include other pages like a blog or portfolio to showcase your work.
For example, if you’re a beauty salon, your portfolio might highlight transformations, while a wellness spa might showcase a blog offering tips on mindfulness and self-care.
#2 Clear calls-to-action for each page
Every page should guide your visitor to take the next step. Think about what action you want potential clients to take — do you want them to book a service, fill out a contact form, or sign up for your newsletter? For example:
Homepage: A prominent “Book Now” button to encourage immediate action.
Services page: A “Learn More” or “Schedule a Consultation” button next to each service.
Contact page: A simple and inviting “Get in Touch” or “Schedule an Appointment” form.
These clear calls-to-action (CTAs) help your visitors know exactly what to do next, making their experience on your site easier and more engaging.
#3 A basic outline of what content will go on each page
Once you’ve decided on the pages, jot down what content belongs on each.
For example, your About page might feature your background, the story behind your business, and what makes you different.
Your Services page could detail the benefits of each service, pricing, and testimonials from happy clients.
Mapping this out beforehand helps your designer organize the content in a way that feels natural and intuitive.
✏️ Tip: Think about the journey your visitors will take when they land on your website. For example, if a new client lands on your homepage, what would you like them to see first? What information will guide them to take the next step?
Maybe they’ll read about your services and decide to book, or they might visit your portfolio first to get inspired by your previous work.
By thinking through this journey, you can help your designer create a smooth and enjoyable experience that naturally leads clients where you want them to go.
By outlining your website’s purpose and structure, you’re making sure your site is not just beautiful, but also effective in reaching your business goals.
Don’t worry though, that outline has to be perfect. Just create a short outline, your website designer will know what to do with it and will surely provide helpful suggestions.
Step 4: Prepare Your Content (Copy & Images)
Beautiful design may catch someone’s eye, but compelling content and high-quality images are what will keep them interested. A polished website doesn’t just look good — it needs to communicate your message clearly and professionally.
Just like you wouldn’t show up to an important event without making sure you’re dressed your best, your website’s copy and images are how you “dress” your business for the online world. Thoughtful preparation of both will ensure your website shines.
What to Prepare:
#1 Clear and concise copy for each page
Your words matter just as much as the design. For every page, you want to write a copy that is clear, easy to understand, and speaks directly to your ideal clients.
For example, if you're offering beauty or wellness services, your descriptions should focus on how you help clients feel their best. Instead of simply listing services, explain the benefits — like how your treatments leave clients feeling rejuvenated or how your products promote long-term wellness.
If writing isn’t your strong suit, consider hiring a copywriter who can capture your brand’s voice and message effectively.
#2 High-quality images of your work, services, or products
People want to see what you’re all about, and images are often the first thing they’ll notice. If you’re a beauty professional, high-quality photos of your services — like before-and-after shots or images of your salon or spa — can help clients visualize the experience.
If you don’t have professional images, it may be worth investing in a photoshoot to capture your space, products, and services in the best light possible. Even a few well-done images can make your website feel more professional and trustworthy.
#3 Testimonials, case studies, or social proof
There’s nothing quite as powerful as hearing from satisfied clients. Gather testimonials from your happiest customers and consider sharing specific case studies that highlight your results.
✏️ Tip: If your budget allows, hiring a professional photographer can be a game-changer. Not only will they capture your services and products in the best possible way, but they’ll also help you showcase your brand visually.
Even something as simple as high-quality headshots or images of your workspace can elevate your website and make a lasting impression on visitors. Remember, people are drawn to visuals, and your photos should reflect the level of care and quality your business provides.
Pairing a strong design with clear, engaging copy and professional images ensures your site feels polished, trustworthy, and aligned with your brand’s vision.
Step 5: Be Ready for Collaboration and Feedback
Creating a website is an exciting journey, but it’s also a collaborative process. Your designer is there to bring your vision to life, but it’s important to remember that feedback and revisions are a natural part of this creative work. Your designer may come up with ideas you hadn’t thought of, and being open to collaboration will lead to the best result.
What to Prepare:
#1 A flexible mindset for revisions
Design is an evolving process, and sometimes the first draft might not be exactly what you envisioned — and that’s okay! Your designer will use your feedback to refine and improve the design, so being open to adjustments is key.
For example, you might have thought you wanted a certain color scheme, but your designer suggests a palette that better fits your brand’s energy. Staying flexible allows the creative process to flow smoothly, leading to a final product that exceeds your expectations.
#2 A schedule for regular check-ins and feedback sessions
To keep the project on track, it’s important to establish a routine for checking in with your designer. Your chosen designer will have a worked out client process with a certain amount of revision rounds incorporated.
Make sure to adjust your schedule to be able to keep in touch with website designer and provide feedback.
✏️ Tip: Make sure you carve out time to review drafts and provide feedback promptly. Delays in feedback can push the project back, so keeping the momentum going is essential.
Collaboration with your website designer is like a dance — when you’re both in sync, the process flows effortlessly. By staying flexible, communicating regularly, and giving thoughtful feedback, you’ll not only make the experience smoother but also ensure you end up with a website that truly reflects your vision and goals.
Taking the time to prepare these key elements ahead of your website project will make the entire process smoother, faster, and more productive.
When you’re clear on your brand, have your content and visuals ready, and are open to collaboration, you’ll be setting both yourself and your designer up for success. This preparation ensures that the final result is a website that not only looks great but also works hard to support your business goals, allowing you to focus on what you do best.
Are you ready to take your beauty or wellness business to the next level with a professional, custom-made website?
Let’s bring your vision to life in just two weeks! Contact us today to get started.
