I’ve designed websites since the days when you could only use 16 colors. ( I was a child prodigy, all right?) I love the trends in web design, studying what looks fresh and new, what appeals most to a particular audience, why this color and not that one–all the details that are so subconscious but make all the difference for your website.
The Beginner’s Blog
My prices start at $350 for a very simple blog with your choice of several looks. (Sorry, no custom work at this price.) This package comes with handholding to get your domain name, pesonal instruction via email or phone and the complete installation of your blog.
Custom Blog/website
The difference between this and the beginner package is design and additional pages. I will design a unique website just for you. I can design it so that you may update it yourself (be sure you have at least a smidgeon of technical ability if you choose this option) or where I will update it for you. Costs are based on what you want. My hourly rates are $50/hour and I give estimates. Pretty much, if you can dream it up, or show it to me on someone else’s site, I can do it. (I do NOT use copyrighted images without explicit permission–ever.)
Do-It-Yourself for an Inexpensive Solution
If you don’t mind using a non-custom package and want to build our own website, some folks seem to have the knack for it. Give it a try! Most web hosts have Do-It-Yourself blog and website packages. You can start off with the smaller package and expand as you outgrow it.
Why wouldn’t you want to use a cheaper do-it-yourself packages? First off, the designs are not unique, so no personal branding available. Second, these sites have lots of behind-the-scenes coding that is not friendly with search engines, like Google (which means that if your mom types your website name into Google, it might not come up) And thirdly, these packages have limitations on how many pages you can add, what type of pages, and other restrictions you can expect from one-size fits all solutions. But the price is right and this might be a good start for you!
Whether you build your website yourself, or contract me to build it for you, I highly recommend 1and1.com for your webhosts. I’ve used them for years and have been satisfied with their service. You can check them out by clicking on the irritatingly flashing button below.
