So you finally launched your business and thought, “I just need a website and I’m good to go…”
[pause for dramatic effect / crickets]
…not quite.
If it’s your first time investing in a website (whether you’re hiring someone to help or DIY-ing it), or if your current site feels clunky, confusing, or cobbled together with a million plug-ins, it’s time for a revamp, my friend.
When someone lands on your site, they should know exactly what you do, who it’s for, and what to do next—without having to scroll, guess, or squint.
TL;DR / Key Takeaways
- Your website should work for you, not create more tech headaches.
- Clear, flexible design > overstuffed plug-ins and rigid editors.
- Messaging matters as much as visuals—clarity builds trust.
- SEO basics aren’t optional if you want clients to find you.
- A strong website is built on a strong brand foundation.
Video overview
Mistake #1: Overcomplicating with plug-ins
Want to add a form? Plug-in. Need an image slider? Plug-in. Connecting email or SEO? More plug-ins.
The problem? Each add-on can break, slow down your site, or conflict with another—turning your “simple website” into a full-time maintenance gig. And no one has time for that.
Here’s my take: your website should work for you, not against you. That’s why at Good Brand Partners, we lean on platforms like Webflow or Squarespace. They have powerful tools built-in, so you don’t need to stitch together a Frankenstein system.
Other solid choices include Wix for simple sites or Shopify for robust e-commerce—but the key is choosing a platform that grows with you, not one that holds you back.
Mistake #2: Using a clunky, rigid editor
If making a small edit feels like playing Jenga—where one wrong move could break the whole thing—that’s a problem.
I can’t tell you how many clients have told me, “I hate logging into my site because I don’t know where anything is. ”That’s not just a design issue—it’s a platform issue.
You should be able to update copy or swap an image without coding or breaking your layout. Platforms like Squarespace and Webflow make it easy for non-designers to make edits without fear. That way, you can keep your site fresh, accurate, and aligned with your brand.
Mistake #3: Not enough breathing room
Overcrowded websites overwhelm visitors. Too much text, too many buttons, or seven pop-ups at once? People bounce.
Think of it like walking into a messy store. Instead of browsing, you want to leave.
Negative space (aka white space) is your friend. It guides the eye, creates hierarchy, and actually makes your site feel more expensive. Simplify, edit ruthlessly, and give your content room to breathe.
Mistake #4: Poor messaging
Design draws people in, but words close the deal.
Your website copy should be clear, not clever for the sake of it. Visitors aren’t here to solve riddles—they want to know if you understand their problem and can help.
Here’s how to approach it:
- Lead with empathy. Name the problem your dream client is facing.
- Paint the transformation. Show them what’s possible if they work with you.
- Explain the process. Share how it works, what it costs (if appropriate), and what they can expect.
Remember: your website is both a magnet and a filter. Good messaging helps the right people self-select in while gently guiding others out.
Need a deeper dive? Check out my blog on why branding is so important—because your messaging is only as strong as the brand strategy behind it.
Mistake #5: Forgetting SEO basics
Even the best-designed site won’t help if no one can find it.
Start with clarity: use proper headers, structure your content logically, and add alt text to your images.
And yes—it’s as simple as making sure your site says who you are. If you’re “Beverly Med Spa,” your site should literally say “Beverly Med Spa” in a headline. Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many sites hide behind vague taglines.
Good SEO is good user experience. It tells both Google and your visitors they’re in the right place.
Bonus: Don’t confuse web design with brand identity
A shiny new website won’t help if you don’t yet have a brand identity that feels like you.
If you haven’t nailed down your logo, colors, voice, or overall brand vibe, web design will feel like an uphill battle. On the flip side, if you already have a brand you’re proud of, your site becomes much easier (and faster) to design.
Think of it this way: your brand is the foundation, and your website is the house built on top. Without a strong foundation, the house won’t stand for long.
Need help here? Learn more about brand identity.
Next steps if you’re ready to revamp your site
Here’s your quick checklist:
- Ditch the plug-in pile-up
- Choose a platform that’s easy to edit
- Leave room for breathing space
- Get clear on your messaging
- Don’t skip SEO basics
- Build on a brand identity you love
And once your brand and website are aligned, you can use systems like HoneyBook to create a seamless client journey—from first inquiry to final payment. Automations, in particular, are a lifesaver—here’s my breakdown of HoneyBook automations if you want to see how to save time without losing your personal touch.
Remember: you don’t need a complicated website. You need one that works—one that looks good, runs smoothly, and reflects your brand in a way that feels effortless.
If you’re ready for support building a site (or brand) that does just that, let’s chat. Book a free discovery call today and take the first step toward a website you’ll actually be proud to share.