Frequently Asked Questions
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Heck yeah. I’ve got some examples of websites, digital products, and audio guides on my About page.
In most cases, you just won’t use that service. All of the services are discounted when they’re included in a Kickstarter package. So, even if you don’t use something that’s included, you’re probably coming out ahead if you were to buy a la carte.
However, if there are several services you won’t use, I may create an original package and price it for you. I consider it all before you make your payment and we get started.
There isn’t an extra fee for going with the payment plan. However, if you make the full payment upfront, you can choose between two free services to add to your project (see the Services page) . I require an initial payment before our first meeting, and 70% paid by our mid-way check-in. 100% must be paid before our final wrap-up meeting and you view your completed site.
Typically 3-4 weeks when you buy the Basic Kickstarter and 5 weeks when you buy the Full Kickstarter. While it’s not guaranteed, that’s a good time frame to expect. Some things that can alter the time are how complicated the project is, how many revisions you’d like, how decisive you are, how speedy you are getting your to-do tasks to me, and how many other projects I’m working on at the same time.
No and yes. What I quote you for the work I’ll do for you is set. There won’t be any surprises. You’ll pay that to me and no more unless you’d like to add more to the project. If that’s the case, we’ll talk about the price beforehand so you can decide whether or not to add it.
You will have to pay an ongoing fee to Bluehost to keep your website live. Their prices vary, but I’ll usually start you on their least expensive package that’s around $3 a month. After the first year, their price goes up and is similar to other hosting platforms. If you add a subscription email service, client management system, or something similar to help you run your business, you’ll likely have a monthly or annual fee with them. I’m happy to make suggestions and let you know what I think is worth the expense or not.
For any subscription services you use, I’ll walk you through how to set up an account, what to get, and how to do it in your name with your own credit card so everything will be simple for you after our work together.
I try to make the design and building process as communicative and fun as possible. That’s why we get clear on what you want and what to expect at the start, before I start designing, and mid-way through the project. If you purchase the Full Kickstarter, we’ll also have opportunity to communicate on tweaks and details through Voxer every Monday.
I want this to be a happy experience for you. And I do my best to ensure you feel heard and seen. However, this type of work is time and energy-intensive. And I will not be able to offer you a refund.
It’s not. I have three online businesses and two young children who are their own full-time career 😉. My primary business is Make It Joy. Through the life coaching, retreats, digital products, and content I create, I hope Make It Joy helps people find inspiration and courage to make the absolute most of their life. Check it out: www.makeitjoy.com My other business is creating and selling websites and blogs that I monetize (aka “blog flipping”).
With some I do, with some I don’t. I recommend the platforms because I’ve found them attractive, affordable, and easy for beginners to use.
I recommend platforms I use currently, have used in the past, or would use if I were to start from scratch now. I’m looking for what’s simple and appealing for you. Being an affiliate is just a nice perk to something I’d recommend anyway.
Once you find your groove in your business and have time to check out other options, it’s easy to switch to most other platforms.
Ha. I love this question. It reminds me of first-time homebuyers purchasing a “starter home.” I think that’s a great analogy for this style of website design. For most clients, what I create for you will be more than enough to run your business and feel pleased with your online presence. You’ll have a speedy website that looks professional, functions well, and is simple to understand. It’s also something you can build upon or add to once you hire a virtual assistant or have time and interest to learn to manage your own site.
This “starter home” website could easily be a “forever home” for many clients. However, some business owners may outgrow their website or pivot their focus over a few years. They may need an intricate website with high-touch processes, systemization, or elaborate shop pages. That’s the kind of stuff you pay a lot for and most small businesses don’t have this need.
If you end up expanding and require a new site, I hope you’ll have steady income and regularly invest in your company. So, it won’t feel like a hindrance to you at all when the time is right.
My desire is to start you with a good foundation, an attractive website that you love and that your potential clients are drawn to and can navigate easily. I’m designing your site with your long-term clients in mind. And it’s my pleasure to help you start off strong.
A few reasons.
#1- I know what it’s like to finish a program excited to start your business then be bummed by how much a professional website costs (and that doesn’t even include copywriting, coaching, niche selection, and a clear guide on what to do to get started in the first year). I’m with you in this and want you to be able to build your dream!
#2- I still consider myself pretty new at the content creation/web design game. While I’ve spent hundreds, if not thousands of hours learning, practicing, and executing the skills required in this area, I think three years or less is still pretty new. So, I charge what feels fair for both parties for my time, energy, and expertise.
#3- Well, honestly, I’m still working on that whole money mindset thing 😆
I totally get it. I change out my throw pillows and repaint my bathroom frequently.
Your business will evolve. Especially in your first year. Your first year is your year to learn, collect data, and observe what is working for you and what needs a closer look.
So while no maintenance or updates are included, you can always reach out to me and purchase an update when you need it, hire a VA, or ask if I have any colleagues who offer that service. And of course, if you ever have the time and interest in learning about WordPress you can learn enough to make changes yourself.