How to Build Your Own Website
Building your own website used to be a daunting task.
You might think it requires coding knowledge or an expensive web development team, but that’s no longer the case! Thanks to platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify, even small business owners with no experience can create stunning, functional websites! With the right attitude and a willingness to spend some time learning, you can have your site up and running without hiring an agency and spending a fortune.
In this blog post, I'll show you how easy it is to create your own website, why these platforms have become so popular, and how you can manage everything—even from your phone.
Why Website Builders Like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify Are Perfect for Small Businesses
No Experience Needed—Just a Can-Do Attitude If you’ve never built a website before, don’t worry. Platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify are designed for beginners. They’ve simplified the entire process, providing step-by-step guidance on how to set up and customize your site. All you need is the motivation to get started and some time to explore the platform. These platforms offer intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy to create pages, upload images, and edit text without needing a single line of code. They also provide “how-to” videos, tutorials, and support if you ever feel stuck. You’re never on your own! AdVancify is always here to provide support whenever you need an extra hand.
Beautiful, Pre-Designed Templates
One of the standout features of these website builders is the vast selection of stunning templates. Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify offer pre-designed, professional-looking templates for various industries—from retail to personal services to blogs and portfolios. You don’t have to be a designer to have a beautiful website. These templates are customizable, so you can adjust them to fit your branding and style. Whether you want a clean, minimalistic look or something more vibrant, you’ll find a template that suits your business perfectly.
User-Friendly Apps and Integrations
These platforms go beyond website creation. They offer integrations with a wide range of apps to help you manage your business more effectively. From email marketing tools (like Mailchimp) to customer relationship management (CRM) systems and analytics tools, you can easily add functionality to your website. For instance, Shopify offers great eCommerce integrations that allow you to manage products, inventory, and payments all in one place. Squarespace integrates with popular apps for bookings, scheduling, and even social media, so everything runs seamlessly from one platform.
Mobile Apps for On-the-Go Management
Managing your website from a desktop computer is great, but what happens when you're on the move? Luckily, platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify have mobile apps that let you manage your site and business directly from your phone. With these apps, you can update your website content, manage customer orders, respond to inquiries, and even track site analytics while you’re out and about. This flexibility is essential for busy small business owners who need to be able to manage things wherever they are.
Resources to Help You Every Step of the Way
If you're worried about getting stuck, don’t be. These platforms come with a wealth of helpful resources—from step-by-step tutorials to customer support teams available by chat or email. You can access user guides, instructional videos, and forums filled with tips from other users. Additionally, platforms like Wix have dedicated knowledge centres that break down every step of the process. Whether you’re learning how to set up an online store or how to integrate email marketing, you’ll find the answers you need. Of course, there is also AdVancify - We offer ongoing consultations to help you along your website journey.
Key Features of Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify for Small Business Owners
Squarespace: Known for its clean and professional designs, it’s great for content-driven businesses like bloggers, artists, and service providers. Easy-to-use drag-and-drop editor with excellent tools for SEO and marketing.
Wix: This platform offers total creative freedom with highly customizable templates and simple website-building tools. You can quickly integrate apps from their App Market for added functionality, like forms, bookings, and chat widgets.
Shopify: Ideal for eCommerce businesses, Shopify is built with selling in mind. It’s perfect for those who want to start an online store. The platform integrates with payment gateways, shipping options, and inventory management systems to make selling products easy.
Can Anyone Really Build Their Own Website?
Absolutely. Even if you have no technical experience, the combination of intuitive tools, tutorials, and support makes it possible. At AdVancify, I have encouraged many small business owners to do just this, and the results have been amazing! Business owners feel proud of what they have built and love being in control of their own website, which is crucial to running their business.
Why Having a Website is Essential for Your Business
In today’s digital world, having a website is crucial for any business. A website serves as your online storefront, allowing customers to find you, learn about your services, and make purchases 24/7. Whether you're offering products or services, or simply building your brand presence, a website is a non-negotiable asset. Your website can be the central hub for your marketing efforts—allowing you to direct traffic from social media, email campaigns, and other media and marketing efforts.
Final Thoughts: You Can Do It!
Building a website doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Thanks to platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify, the process has never been more accessible. With user-friendly templates, powerful integrations, and mobile apps for easy management, you can get your small business online in no time. So, take the plunge! With a little time and a can-do attitude, you’ll soon have a website you can be proud of—one that helps grow your business and engage your customers.
