7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Web Designer →
Hiring a web designer can feel like a big moment in business.
Exciting.
Nerve-wracking.
A little “am I about to make an expensive mistake?” energy.
And honestly? That feeling makes sense.
Your website isn’t just a pretty place on the internet—it’s:
→ your credibility
→ your sales engine
→ your digital first impression
So before you sign a contract, Venmo a deposit, or fall in love with someone’s Instagram grid, here are seven questions I wish every mom asked before hiring a web designer.
Not to interrogate them—but to protect you.
Client Spotlight: Hey, Sleepy Baby
1. “Do You Have Experience With Businesses Like Mine?”
This matters more than style.
A designer who mostly works with:
→ photographers
→ brick-and-mortar shops
→ big corporate brands
May not understand what your business actually needs.
Ask:
→ Have you worked with service providers or personal brands?
→ Do you understand funnels, freebies, and lead generation?
→ Do you design with conversion in mind—or just aesthetics?
Pretty without strategy is just decoration.
2. “What’s Actually Included in This Package?”
This is where confusion (and resentment) usually starts.
You want to know:
→ How many pages are included?
→ Are revisions capped?
→ Is copy included—or just design?
→ Will SEO basics be set up?
If it’s vague, ask for clarity before you commit.
Clear scope = clear expectations = a much better experience for everyone.
3. “Will I Be Able to Update My Website Myself?”
This is a big one for moms.
You don’t want a website that:
→ you’re scared to touch
→ requires emailing your designer for every tiny change
→ feels fragile
Ask:
→ Will I be able to update text, images, and links myself?
→ Is training or documentation included?
Your website should support your business and life—not create another dependency.
4. “How Do You Approach Strategy vs. Design?”
Not every web designer does strategy the same way—and that’s okay.
(This is why I actually recommend you work with a brand designer who also can do your website… so the strategy is seamless!)
But you need to know which one you’re hiring.
Ask:
→ Will you help me structure my site based on my offers?
→ Do you guide navigation, page flow, and hierarchy?
→ Or am I expected to bring all of that myself?
If you want leadership and clarity, make sure that’s actually part of the process.
5. “What Platform Do You Design On—and Why?”
This question tells you a lot.
A good designer should be able to clearly explain:
→ why they recommend a platform
→ what the pros and cons are
→ how it fits your business long-term
Whether that’s Squarespace, Showit, or something else, you deserve to understand what you’re building on—not just be told “this is what I use.”
6. “What Happens After the Website Launches?”
Launch day isn’t the end—it’s the beginning.
Ask:
→ Will you help with post-launch support?
→ Is there a handoff process?
→ What happens if I have questions later?
A thoughtful offboarding process with a support phase is a green flag. It shows the designer cares about how your website actually lives in the real world.
7. “Do You Have a Distinct Style—or Design Range?”
This is a sneaky but important one.
Some designers:
→ have a very specific signature look
→ design every site in a similar style
→ attract clients who want that exact aesthetic
Others:
→ adapt to the client’s brand
→ design across industries
→ prioritize strategy over trends
Neither is wrong—but you need to know which one you’re hiring.
Ask:
→ Do you design in multiple styles?
→ How do you make sure my site doesn’t look like your last three projects?
→ Can I see examples that don’t all look the same?
If you’re hiring a designer for their aesthetic, that’s great—as long as it aligns with your brand.
If you want a site that feels uniquely you, make sure your designer knows how to step out of their own style and into yours.
A Quick Reality Check (From One Eldest Daughter to Another)
You’re allowed to:
→ ask questions
→ want clarity
→ expect professionalism
Hiring a web designer is a collaboration—not a mystery box.
The right designer will welcome these questions.
The wrong one will dodge them.
Trust that.
Not Sure Which Path Is Right for You?
If you’re reading this and thinking: “I want support, but not overwhelm”
You have options.
→ Eldest Daughter Showit templates
Perfect if you want a strategic, polished website you can customize on your own—without starting from scratch.
→ 1:1 Website Work
Best if you want hands-on strategy, design, and guidance done with you (or for you), start to finish.
Both paths are valid. The right one depends on your season.
Need to Start Small? Grab these FREE Instagram Canva Templates →
Ready to turn your boring “always selling” posts into a delicious, bingeable mix of business and pleasure? (I call this “my soft pretzel".) These templates are perfectly curated to help you create your soft pretzel life monthly recaps and personal brand posts that low key sells, and high key connects with your community.
Grab your FREE Showit Link in Bio Page Set →
A completely (and quickly) customizable, high-converting Showit Page Duo to make your brand look professional, legit, and ready for clients, all from one link. If you’re running a business from your phone, you need one simple page that makes it easy for people to book you, buy from you, or connect with you—without the overwhelm of building a full website (yet).
Ready to finally go all-in on your brand and web?
Let’s do it!
I’ve developed lots of brand support options just for you. No matter what part of the branding journey you’re in, we should find a fit. From Brands-in-a-Day to Web and Social Media Design, I work in lightning-fast turn around to get you out the door and on your way to being your industry’s Go-To Girlie.
