Design Resources
This is a small list I have compiled for those venturing into building a new website and wanting a DIY approach. I am a graphics/website designer and these are platforms I have come across that I have found to be pretty simple for those wanting to jump in and get started. If it has a "ā" then I have an affiliate link with them.
ā Templates:
Etsy - This is a good place to go for Squarespace, Shopify, Socials, and more templates. Beautiful artists on there. When you search - try to search for specific colors or concepts and place the type of template you are looking for along with your search. Think: (Spiritual Squarespace Templates, Modern Blogspot Template, or simply Google Site Templates)
Themeforest - They have nice Wordpress and HTML templates to choose from plus some extras you can look at.
CreativeMarket - Pretty abundant in multiple forms of templates. HTML, fonts, Social, Prints, Mockups, ect.
ā Platforms/Hosting:
Hostinger - An affordable website builder that is pretty straight forward. They do have an AI option it seems but I will always recommend you put You in your work.
Loveable - If you're set on AI building, I did come across this platform. I have not personally used it but the templates are quite pretty. Like this one.
ā Carrd - I use this for my business site and I have used this to build clients sites. For basic users this is a great landing page creator with beautiful starting templates to get you going. For those willing to learn a little more, multi-page sites can be just as beautiful on this platform. You can use my code HANNAH if you opt for this platform. I do sell templates and you can contact me to see them or some other sellers you can check out are: Snapsite & Kostas.
ā E-Commerce / Membership Platforms:
Shopify - For $5/month you can get a basic landing that hosts all your products. You can use their landing site or embed your products into an external website.
Bigcartel - I have watched this company grow with time and they seem to always put their clients first. In the many years I have seen them they have made significant changes but their pricing has only gone up slightly. This is a favorite and at an affordable rate you can be up and hosted with a beautiful design.
Squarespace - This platform can be slightly complicated to navigate but if you are willing to put in a little extra time to learn it you can build beautiful sites with commerce and even memberships.
ā Newsletters:
EmailOctopus - A great platform for those just starting out. Relatively simple to setup.
Kit - If you need commerce in your newsletter, this is a good choice.
Flodesk - This is a pretty popular one but it is quite expensive. It is only on this list because many people do seem to like its modern appeal and it is quite beautiful providing many features.
ā Blogs & Plugins:
Elfsight - This is a pretty well 'all-in-one' resource. All you have to do is copy + paste the code it gives you into your platform of choice, and there you go. You can also get a direct-link that hosts your embed on an individual page through their site.
Bearblog - A very simple place to just start writing. No complicated setup, beautiful themes, and the ability to customize code IF that's your jam. Also it's free and the upgrade plan is super affordable.
Pika - Just as simple as Bearblog but the editor is far more simple for those not familiar with markdown. You can also drag and drop images into your blog. The features are a bit more with this one. Such as password protected blogs or pages. You get your first 50 posts free but then you need to upgrade to write more. The upgrade is priced nicely.
I have intentionally kept this list very simple for you so you are not too overwhelmed but can easily get started online. God Willing. However, I can work with you one-on-one to help you build a dedicated list of resources just for you and your business or we can build your site together ground up. You can email me to learn more.