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What to have ready before you hire a web designer

You do not need a finished plan to reach out. But a few things, gathered early, make a project faster and the quote more accurate.

Written by
Sacardo, Reading, PA
Published
October 9, 2026
Topic
Small business websites

A short checklist

  • What the business does and who it is forTwo or three sentences in your own words is enough.
  • The one thing visitors should doCall, book, order or ask for a quote. A site that points everywhere points nowhere.
  • Photos and videoReal images of your work, place or events are almost always better than stock photos.
  • Your logo and any brand colorsIf you do not have these yet, say so, since it changes the scope.
  • Rough text or notesServices, prices, hours, and answers to the questions customers always ask.
  • Sites you like and dislikeExamples help more than adjectives.
  • Access to your domain and hosting, if you have themIf you do not, ask that new ones be opened in your name.
  • Who decidesOne person who can approve, and any dates the site has to be ready by.

What you do not need yet

You do not need a scoped plan, a page list or technical knowledge. The first conversation is for working out what is not working right now and what the site should do about it. A good designer asks the questions.

Ready to talk?

Send us a few lines about your business and we will reply within a day or two. Start a project, or read what affects the cost of a small business website first.