How to choose a website designer for your goals & budget

If you’re ready for a website that looks amazing and makes sales, choosing the right website designer is key. Below, I’ll cover how to choose a website designer, including where to find them and what to ask before hiring to make sure they’re a good fit for your goals and budget.

As a website designer for women business owners and creators, I know just how important design is for an effective website marketing strategy. It can help you stand out, reach the right people, and encourage visitors to take the next step.

But finding the perfect designer can feel overwhelming. So many options, styles, and prices — it can be a lot. Fortunately, you don’t have to guess your way through the process. Let’s look at how to find and choose the best designer for your website.

Explore your options

There are tons of web designers to choose from, but where should you actually look? Some of the best ways to explore your options include:

• Referrals: Ask friends or other business owners in your network who they’ve worked with and loved. Referrals are ideal for finding designers who already have a proven track record and come personally recommended.
• Google search: Search for designers in your niche (for example, “website designer for service providers/e-comm brand”). Bonus if they have their own website that’s easy to find and navigate since this is a good sign they know how to create sites that are both functional and discoverable.
• Design portfolios and directories: Sites like Dribbble or Behance let you explore different styles and see what kind of work resonates with you. Many designers also link directly to their websites from these platforms.
• Social media: Many website designers (like me!) hang out on Instagram and Threads. This can be a fun way to see work samples and behind-the-scenes processes. 

Check the designer’s work & experience

Once you’ve found a few potential designers, spend time exploring their websites and portfolios. This is the perfect vibe check because it lets you get a feel for their design style, how they communicate, and whether they understand your type of business. 

• Work samples: Review past projects to see if you vibe with the designer's style. But don't get too hung up on this because a good designer can work with different styles! Case studies can also give you an idea of their process to make sure they work with the platform you want to use.
• Testimonials: Love notes from past clients say a lot. Look for testimonials that mention communication, collaboration, and overall experience — not just the final results.
• Services and offers: Look at services pages to see what’s included. Do they offer full website design, redesigns, or ongoing support? Make sure their offers align with what you actually need. If you’re really into a designer but don’t see what you’re looking for, you can always reach out because many designers offer custom projects (ahem — I do!) 
• Experience with your industry: Not a dealbreaker, but definitely a bonus. A designer who understands your industry and audience can bring extra insight to your project. 
• Their website’s vibe: A designer’s own website should be easy to navigate, engaging, and clear about what they offer. How they show up for themselves often reflects how they’ll show up for you.

Connect & ask questions

When you’ve found a few designers you’re interested in working with, reach out to see how they communicate and collaborate. Think of it like dating — look for a genuine connection that feels aligned, not just transactional.

Here are a few questions to ask:

• What’s included in your website design package?
• Have you worked with a brand like mine before?
• What’s your timeline and process from start to launch?
• Do you offer redesigns or ongoing support after launch?
• Which website platforms do you work with?
• How do you make sure the design will align with my brand and goals?
• How do you create a website that offers a good user experience?
• Do you offer revisions or updates?
• Can I see examples of sites you’ve designed in my industry?
• How do payments and contracts work?
• What’s the best way to communicate throughout the project?

Compare options to choose the best website designer

After you’ve done your research and had a few conversations, it’s time to decide who feels like the best fit. Listen to your gut and think about the overall experience. Who seems most aligned with your vision and business goals?

While the price tag is important, you’ll also want to consider how they answered your questions, their design style and process, and their personality. You’ll be working closely with your designer, so choose someone you’re genuinely excited to collaborate with.

How to choose a website designer: FAQs

For more on finding the best web designer, get answers to common questions below.

How to pick a website designer?

Start by researching designers whose style fits your aesthetic, then review their portfolio, testimonials, and services. Reach out to a few for discovery calls so you can compare their communication, process, and pricing before you make your decision.

What to ask a web designer before hiring?

Before hiring a website designer, ask questions to get a feel for their process, experience, and what’s included. This will help you feel confident that they can create a site you’re genuinely obsessed with — one that fits your goals, shows off your brand, and matches your timeline and budget.

How much should you pay for a website designer?

You can pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000 for a website designer, depending on the number of pages, the designer’s experience, features and complexity, and the platform. My website design package starts at a few thousand dollars and includes everything needed for a website that shines big and bright for more conversions.

How to choose a website designer: conclusion

Choosing a web designer isn’t just about finding someone who makes pretty websites. It’s about finding a creative partner who understands your goals, matches your energy, and knows how to turn your vision into a strategic site that earns you money.

If you’re ready to bring your website to life, I’ve got you. Fill out a project inquiry form to learn more about working together, or subscribe to my newsletter to receive free website and brand-building tips in your inbox.