Starting a business comes with no shortage of expenses. When you’re watching every dollar, it’s natural to wonder where you can cut back — and whether a full website is really necessary right now.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose between a professional online presence and staying within budget. For some businesses, a simple one-page website is all you need to get started.
I call this a starter website. And as your business grows, your website can grow with it.
What’s a starter website?
A starter website covers the essentials — one clean, well-built page that tells visitors who you are, what you do, and how to get in touch. It’s a smart fit for new businesses, side gigs, and anyone who wants a professional presence without overbuilding before they’re ready.
One thing I want to be upfront about: more pages generally mean more visibility in search engines. So a one-page site does have SEO trade-offs. But for the right business at the right stage, it’s a solid foundation to build on.
What I never cut corners on
No matter the size of your website, certain things aren’t optional. Here’s what I make sure every starter website includes:
1. A clear brand message
Once someone lands on your site, you have seconds to show them you understand their problem and can help. Solid messaging is what turns visitors into customers.
2. Legal requirements
Privacy policies, disclosures, and accessibility standards aren’t just best practice — in many cases, they’re required.
3. SEO fundamentals
Even a simple site benefits from keyword research, on-page optimization, and a Google Business Profile. I don’t skip this step.
4. A strong technical foundation
I build on WordPress, an open-source platform that’s flexible, widely supported, and easy for you to manage if you choose.
5. A website support plan
A website needs ongoing maintenance to stay secure and running smoothly. I offer a support plan so you’re not left on your own after launch.
What does a starter website cost?
Every project is a little different, so I don’t publish a flat rate. But, I can tell you that starter websites are priced to reflect their scope. The cost depends on factors like the complexity of your functionality needs, how much content needs to be created, whether you’re writing your own copy, and where your branding currently stands.
At our first meeting, I’ll ask you questions and give you a ballpark estimate so you know what to expect before we go any further.
See what’s possible
Sol Family Wellness Website
Meggan Solfest is an ARNP in Tacoma, WA who decided to start her own private practice. She serves clients in several ways — in person, online, and in their homes — and works with people who have a range of specific medical needs. One of my goals for her website was to make sure every type of person she serves knows immediately that she can help them.
Through her private practice, Meggan is able to spend more time with her patients and is driven to find solutions that may look different from what they’re used to. I made sure her messaging reflected that, and that all the important details — pricing, disclosures, and contact information — were easy to find. A Google map helps search engines understand the area she serves.
Meggan was thrilled with how simple and effective her new website turned out. I also helped her set up a few other essentials for a new business, including email and a Google Business Listing — which was a big relief for her.
See the Sol Family Wellness website here.
Alix Fenton Nutrition Website
Alix Fenton is a nutritionist in Gig Harbor, WA who works part time while raising young children. Even so, having a professional online presence was important for people searching for her services.
I used the StoryBrand method to craft messaging that speaks directly to her clients’ struggles around nutrition and clearly positions Alix as the guide who can help.
The site walks visitors through how working with her works, so they feel comfortable taking that first step and reaching out. Her areas of expertise are front and center, making it easy for the right people to see that she’s the right fit for them.
