I get asked this question a lot: “I’d like a website, but I’m not sure where to start.” It can feel overwhelming, but the very first thing to ask yourself isn’t about design or technology. It’s about purpose.

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Step 1: Ask 

Why Do You Want a Website?

Not everyone needs one. That might sound strange coming from someone who builds websites, but it’s true. A website should have a clear role in your business. Do you want people to:

  • Schedule a meeting?
  • Buy a product?
  • See your menu?
  • Get your contact information?

If the answer is “none of the above,” maybe a website isn’t the right tool for you. For example, I don’t see a real reason for my local gas station to have a website—it wouldn’t add value. Many small businesses thrive with just a Google Business listing, and others do well managing everything through a social media platform.

But—if you’re selling multiple products, need inventory tracking, want clear return policies, or simply don’t want to rely on the shifting algorithms of social media—then a website can make all the difference.

Step 2: Explore What You Like (and Don’t Like)

Once you know why you want a website, the next step is to think about what it should look like. I always recommend a little “internet surfing” to get inspiration. Ask yourself:

  • Do I like large video banners at the top?
  • Would a side menu feel cleaner?
  • Or do I prefer a simple design with lots of white space?

You’re not trying to copy a competitor’s site. Instead, you’re learning your own preferences for layout, navigation, and calls to action. And just as valuable—figure out what you don’t like. That clarity helps guide the design process.

Step 3: Map Out Your Content

Before jumping into platforms or hosting, sketch out your content. A simple Word document works fine. Make a rough “menu draft” with bullet points, like:

  • Cover photo or banner
  • Mission statement
  • Call to action (what you want people to do)
  • Services or products
  • Lead magnet (free download, special offer, or sign-up form)

This doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s just a roadmap that ensures you don’t miss the essentials.

Step 4: Consider Your Budget and Long-Term Value

A website isn’t a one-time cost—it’s an ongoing investment. Before locking yourself into a platform, take a look at the long-term budget. Websites have annual costs like hosting, domain renewals, and sometimes plugin or security subscriptions.

The key question is: Will this site pay for itself? That payoff could come from direct online sales, or from the credibility and visibility it brings your business (helping customers find you, book appointments, or learn more about your services). But if the costs outweigh the benefits, it may not be the right time—or the right tool—for your business.

Step 5: Can the Website Grow With You?

Another important consideration is whether your website can grow alongside your business. You might start simple—with just a homepage and contact form—but what happens when you want more? Can you add online booking, or expand into merchandise sales, without tearing everything down and starting over?

Some platforms make it easier (and more affordable) to scale than others. Choosing wisely now can save you from the frustration of rebuilding your site later when your business grows.

Step 6: Think About the Technical Side

Only after you’ve nailed down your purpose, style, content, budget, and growth plan should you dive into the technical pieces:

Regularly adding fresh content, whether that’s blog posts, updated menus, or seasonal promotions, keeps your site alive and working for you.

Final Thought

A website can build credibility, but more importantly, it should serve a purpose. Start with your why, explore your design preferences, map your content, look at the long-term costs, and make sure the site can grow with you. With that foundation, you’ll be able to choose the right tools and build a website that isn’t just pretty—it’s practical and powerful for your business.