Designing Your Own Website: How to Choose the Right Squarespace Template
Hello Digital Dreamers!
So you’re thinking about designing your own Squarespace website and don’t know which template to pick? With tons of free and paid templates out there, we know it can be a little overwhelming to decide on the right one.
Before you get sucked into the template vortex, here are some questions to consider to help you choose the perfect website template and bring your vision to life.
1. What’s Your Brand Identity, Vision and Goals?
Before diving into the world of templates, take some time to understand your brand identity and website goals. Are you a photographer looking to showcase your portfolio, a small business owner aiming to sell products, or a blogger sharing your expertise? Defining your purpose will help you narrow down your template options. Consider your target audience, the mood you want to convey, and the functionality you need.
2. Is it Mobile Friendly?
In an era where mobile browsing has surpassed desktop usage, ensuring your website looks great on all devices is crucial. All Squarespace templates are mobile-responsive, meaning they automatically adjust to various screen sizes. However, it's still a good idea to preview your chosen template on different devices to ensure a seamless user experience.
3. How much can you really customize?
While templates offer a great starting point, you'll likely want to customize certain elements to match your brand. Squarespace provides varying levels of customization based on the template you choose. Some templates offer extensive customization options, allowing you to modify colors, fonts, layouts, and more. Others might have more limited customization but offer a simpler setup process.
4. What features are included?
Different websites require different features. If you're an artist, you might need a template that emphasizes visual content. An online store might require templates with built-in e-commerce features. Before finalizing your choice, assess the template's features. Does it support a blog if you plan to write articles? Does it integrate well with social media? Will it showcase your work effectively? Make a checklist of the features you need and ensure your chosen template fulfills them.
5. What do other users think?
Read user reviews and explore live websites built with the templates you're considering. This can help you understand the strengths and limitations of each option. Keep an eye out for feedback on ease of use, customer support, and any potential issues users have encountered.
6. Which pages are included?
When selecting a Squarespace template, it's essential to consider the different page types your website will have. Some template designers offer a light and full version. These could include home pages, portfolio pages, contact pages, and more. Check if the template offers the necessary page types you'll need to create a well-rounded and informative website.
7. Does it have a preview or demo site?
Most templates will have a full demo site so you can take a proper look before making a final decision. Use this feature to your advantage. Experiment with a few templates that caught your eye and see which one aligns best with your content and vision.
Still stuck? Let’s Chat and see how we can work together.
