Why should I hire someone who uses a template service to build a website?

This is a 100% valid question. I’ve been in the web development business in some form or fashion since I was in college. I’ve created websites in Flash, Dreamweaver, Wordpress, 100% from scratch - you name it I’ve at least dabbled in it. In my mind there is no reason to use anything other than Squarespace as I don’t have to worry about up-times, mobile responsiveness, and the general frustration that comes with building a website. To be honest, it’s easier, faster, incredibly reliable, and flexible enough that I can customize the site using my own code if necessary. And if you’re wondering, I’m not supported or sponsored by them (yet).

Since you’re using Squarespace, wouldn’t it make more sense to build it my myself?

I HIGHLY recommend you try and build your site first before coming to me (or anyone else for that matter). If you’re just looking for a simple site that has your logo, an about us, and your contact info, go for it. Save your money for marketing, or better yet, give that all star on your team a bonus. What I’ve found though is most people don’t have the time to build a site. Just because it’s “simple” doesn’t mean it’s fast or easy. If you’ve got 6 months before you site needs to be up, I promise you that you can get it built on your own. But if time is short, give me a call and we’ll make it happen!

Why do you require a signed agreement before starting a job?

I’ve worked for several companies over the last two decades and the ones that have done well are the ones that make sure that there is an agreed upon scope of work before work begins. This does two things, 1) it ensures that we both know what is expected from each of us, and 2) it ensures the project gets delivered on time and to completion. I’ve seen projects fall apart that I’ve spent many hours on because my superiors were operating on “handshake agreements” that fell apart because of misunderstandings or miscommunication, and I care too much about my work, my reputation, and most importantly my client’s satisfaction to let that happen.

What can I expect when I reach out to you for a website/video/etc?

The first thing we’ll do is schedule a time to meet. This can be in person, over the phone, or on a zoom call. Typically I like to keep the initial consult to 30 minutes to make sure I respect both of our schedules. We’ll discuss needs, job requirements, and I’ll answer any questions you may have about the project. After the call ends, I’ll put together a quote and a scope of work for your review. If the quote is accepted, I’ll send over an agreement for us both to sign, and an invoice for 50% of the project total. From there, the project will move forward based on the agreement until completion.

Why do you work with partners instead of doing everything in-house?

I learned a long time ago that while I’m good at many things, I’m not the best at everything. For me, it’s better for me and my clients to surround myself with those that have the passion and skills in their respective fields. And as I’ve recently started out on my own, I don’t have all the equipment and man-power that I had working for established agencies. To get around that, I’ve partnered with a couple other small businesses to make sure that you get the service you need even if I’m not the one who provides it. In turn, they recommend their clients to me for the services they don’t offer or aren’t as well versed in. It’s a win for me and my partners, but more importantly, it’s ensures that all of our clients are taken care of properly.