Web strategist who helps creatives and service providers build websites designed to grow with them. Unlike other designers, I don’t just build for launch—I create strategic, scalable sites that stay valuable long after day one.
OH HEY!! I'M CHANTEL
f you’re launching or growing a small business in 2025, chances are you’ve Googled this exact question: Should I hire a web designer or do it myself? With drag-and-drop builders like Showit, Squarespace, and Shopify making things more accessible, it’s never been easier to build your own site. But easier doesn’t always mean better.
Before you invest your time, money, or creative energy, let’s break down the pros and cons of both — so you can make the right move for where you’re at right now.
DIY vs Done-For-You: What’s the Real Difference?
Doing it yourself might seem like the more affordable route — and in many ways, it can be. You’re in control of every decision. You can move at your own pace. And you don’t need to pay someone upfront to get something live. If your budget is tight and you love learning new tools, DIY might be the right entry point.
But what most people don’t factor in is the cost of time. DIY websites often take 3x longer, cause massive decision fatigue, and may still not convert — because they’re not backed by strategy.
A professional designer isn’t just picking fonts and colors. They’re thinking about buyer psychology, SEO, conversion flow, brand consistency, and mobile experience — all the stuff that makes your site more than just pretty. It makes it profitable.
When DIY Makes Sense (and When It Costs You More)
DIY makes sense if:
- You’re in the early stages and still testing your offers
- You enjoy design and have time to learn
- You’re okay with launching something imperfect to get started
- Your current business income can’t support a designer yet
But DIY can cost you more if:
- You’re losing leads because your website is unclear or outdated
- You spend weeks fiddling with your layout instead of marketing
- Your design feels off-brand, and you don’t feel confident sharing it
- You’re stuck in endless revision cycles that delay your launch
Sometimes the most expensive choice is the one that steals your time and keeps you stuck.
Why Hiring a Web Designer Might Save You Time and Clients
A good web designer doesn’t just make your site look good — they help it work.
Hiring a pro gives you:
- A clear visual identity that builds trust instantly
- A strategic site map that guides people to book or buy
- SEO built in from the start (so your site gets found)
- A confident launch timeline — no more endless tweaking
It’s also a mindset shift. When you invest in a designer, you’re saying: “I’m serious about this business. I’m building something meant to last.” Clients pick up on that energy. A polished website shows you’re here to stay.
Questions to Ask Before You Decide
Still on the fence? Ask yourself:
- Do I have the time to build this myself well?
- Am I confident in writing my own copy and designing for conversions?
- Is my current website holding me back from sharing my business?
- Do I want to build something that grows with me?
You don’t need a $10K brand to get started — but you do need something that reflects your value and helps people understand how to work with you.
What If You’re Not Ready to Hire?
You can still launch with clarity, even if you’re in DIY mode. Start with:
- A one-page layout with clear copy and one call-to-action
- A strong homepage hero section that explains who you help
- SEO basics: meta titles, descriptions, and alt text
- A simple blog or lead magnet to start building visibility
And when you’re ready to level up? You’ll know. Your inbox will get busier. Your brand will feel stronger. And you’ll be able to hand your designer a clear vision — with results already in motion.
If you want the best of both worlds — clarity, strategy, and fast turnaround — I offer done-for-you website builds in just one week. It’s the perfect next step when you’ve outgrown DIY but don’t want a months-long process.
Looking for more tips? Join my weekly newsletter, The House Blend—the only wake-up call you’ll actually look forward to. Packed with web wisdom, SEO tips, and creative ideas.
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