Do you need a website designer or can you DIY it?
When you’re starting or growing a small business, a website is one of the first things you’ll think about — but deciding how to get one can feel overwhelming. Should you hire a professional web designer, or save money by building it yourself?
Both options have pros and cons, but the right choice really depends on your time, skills, goals, and how important your online presence is to your business.
Let’s explore what to expect from each route — and how to decide what’s best for you.
Option 1: DIY website builders (the quick & affordable route)
DIY website builders like Squarespace, Wix, and Shopify have come a long way. They make it easy to drag and drop sections, choose a template, and publish your site within hours.
If you’re just starting out and want something simple, temporary, or low-cost, DIY might be a good first step.
Pros of DIY:
Low upfront cost
You’re in control of the design and updates
No waiting for someone else to make changes
Cons of DIY:
Limited flexibility, templates can look generic
It’s easy to make design or usability mistakes
Takes time to learn the platform and optimise properly
Often lacks professional touches like consistent branding or clear calls-to-action
If you’re unsure where to start, you might want to read Which Platform is Best: WordPress, Shopify, or Wix?, it breaks down the pros and cons of each option.
Option 2: Hiring a web designer (The professional route)
Working with a web designer means you’ll get something completely tailored to your brand and goals. A professional designer will handle the technical setup, mobile responsiveness, and structure your site in a way that helps convert visitors into customers.
Pros of hiring a web designer:
Custom design that matches your brand perfectly
Better performance, navigation, and mobile experience
Expert advice on layout, content, and features
Saves you time so you can focus on running your business
Cons:
Higher initial cost (though often better long-term value)
You’ll rely on someone else for updates (unless they teach you how)
If you’re wondering what that process looks like, check out What to Expect When You Hire a Freelance Web Designer.
DIY vs Designer: What’s right for you?
| Question | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Do you have time to learn a platform like Squarespace or Wix? | DIY |
| Do you want a completely custom design that fits your business? | Hire a Designer |
| Do you need features like bookings, forms, or galleries? | Hire a Designer |
| Is budget your main concern right now? | DIY (with a plan to upgrade later) |
| Do you want your site to help you grow your business, not just exist online? | Hire a Designer |
For more insight, you might also enjoy Freelance Web Designer vs Agency – Which Is Right for Your Business? — it explains how freelancers can offer the same quality as agencies but with a more personal touch.
When DIY websites go wrong
Many business owners start with DIY platforms and later realise their website isn’t bringing in enquiries or doesn’t look as professional as competitors’.
Common mistakes include:
Unclear navigation or missing contact forms
Poor mobile layouts
Inconsistent branding and typography
Slow loading speeds
No clear call-to-action
You can read more about these pitfalls in 10 Website Mistakes That Make People Leave Instantly (And How to Fix Them).
When it’s time to bring in a pro
If your website looks outdated, takes too long to load, or just isn’t getting enquiries, it might be time to bring in a designer to refresh or rebuild it.
A professional can take what you’ve started and turn it into something polished, trustworthy, and designed to grow your business — without losing your personal touch.
Not sure if it’s time for a change? Take a look at When Is It Time for a Website Redesign? for a few tell-tale signs.
Here’s the thing…
DIY website builders are a great option when you’re on a tight budget or testing out a new business idea. But if you want your website to look professional, attract clients, and build trust, working with a designer can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities in the long run.
If you’d like to chat about your options or get a free quote, I’d love to help.
Ready to get started with a freelance web designer? Contact me today for expert guidance and a custom-built solution tailored to your needs!
