Many web designers offer several standard design template choices. These are more budget-friendly and generic than fully custom sites. A pre-built “theme” can be a great option if your priorities are speed, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity. If you’re looking for something more artistic, memorable, or complex, make sure your designer has the resources and expertise to cater to your needs.

One of the most important questions to ask a website designer is what their site build process looks like. Ask them to explain it from start to finish.

How do they gather the details of what you want for your site (your goals and challenges)?
How will you communicate with them?
Do they work with other designers and technicians to build your site?
What are the different phases of the process (e.g., sitemap, content, testing, launch, etc.)?
There’s no one right way to build a great website, but an experienced designer will be able to explain their standard process to give you a good idea of what to expect.

A web hosting service offers the facilities required to create and maintain a website and make it accessible on the internet. A reliable website host is essential for minimizing errors, slow or lagging performance, and other technical issues.

Many web hosting services operate hundreds or thousands of sites and outsource customer service. If your website has a problem, it can be difficult and time-consuming to get it fixed. Find out how your prospective web designer plans to host your new site and avoid these pitfalls before hiring them.