Question 1

What is a "bespoke" website?

Accepted Answer

A bespoke website is hand-built specifically for your business from scratch. Unlike template-based platforms like WordPress or Wix, every line of code is written custom for your needs. This means faster loading times, better security, and a unique design that truly represents your brand.

Question 2

How is this different from WordPress or Wix?

Accepted Answer

WordPress and Wix use templates and plugins that can slow down your site and create security vulnerabilities. Our hand-coded websites are built with modern web technologies, making them significantly faster (typically loading in under 1 second), more secure, and optimized for search engines. Plus, you don't need to worry about plugin updates or compatibility issues.

Question 3

Do I need to be "techy" to manage this?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! That's the beauty of our managed service. I handle all the technical aspects – hosting, security, updates, and maintenance. You simply send me content changes via email or message, and I implement them for you. No learning curves, no admin panels to navigate.

Question 4

Do I own the website?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. To keep your initial setup costs low, the website is provided under an exclusive license for the first 12 months. Once you have completed your initial 12-month term, full ownership of the website code and all assets can be transferred to you. My goal is to build a long-term partnership with you, but I believe you should have the freedom to own your digital assets once the initial build investment is covered.

Question 5

Do I own the domain name?

Accepted Answer

While I am managing your website, I handle the purchase, technical setup, and annual renewal of your domain name to ensure it remains secure and never accidentally expires. I remain the registered owner and manager of the domain during our active partnership. If you decide to move your services elsewhere after your initial 12-month term, I can transfer the domain ownership to you for a small administrative fee. This ensures that your business identity is protected and you have full control of your "online address" should you choose to manage it yourself in the future.

Question 6

What happens if I want to leave?

Accepted Answer

After the initial 12-month commitment, you can leave at any time with 30 days' notice. If you've completed the 12 months, you own the website files and can take them to another host. I'll provide all your files in a standard format. If you leave before 12 months, the website files remain my intellectual property as per the licensing agreement.

Question 7

Is there a contract?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a straightforward service agreement with a 12-month minimum term. This ensures stability for both of us. After the initial 12 months, the agreement continues on a rolling monthly basis, and you can cancel with 30 days' notice.

Question 8

What does "unlimited updates" actually mean?

Accepted Answer

You can request as many modifications to your site's text and imagery as you need. To keep the service fair for everyone, this covers existing pages and layouts. If you need to expand the site with new pages or complex features, we simply quote those as one-off upgrades.

Question 9

How fast do you respond to update requests?

Accepted Answer

Usually within 24-48 hours. This window allows me to ensure every update is properly tested and optimised for speed before going live.

Question 10

Can I add more pages later?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! You can upgrade to a higher tier at any time. For example, if you start with The Professional (5 pages) and need to expand, you can upgrade to Professional Plus (15 pages). The price difference is prorated, and any new pages are included in your monthly updates.

Question 11

What counts as an "update"?

Accepted Answer

Anything from changing text, swapping images, or updating your contact info and prices. Day-to-day content changes are unlimited. Note: Adding new pages or building new technical features are handled as separate project upgrades.

Question 12

Do you provide content writing?

Accepted Answer

Basic content editing and optimization is included with updates. If you need completely new content written from scratch or extensive copywriting, this is available as an additional service. I can provide recommendations or we can discuss your specific content needs.

Question 13

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

We keep our billing as simple as our websites. All payments are handled securely through GoCardless via bank-to-bank transfer. The Setup Fee: This is settled via a one-off "Instant Bank Pay" request before work begins. The Managed Service: Your monthly fee is handled via a secure Direct Debit mandate. This ensures your domain and hosting never accidentally expire, and you won't have to worry about updating credit card details every time a card is replaced.

Question 14

What happens if I miss a payment?

Accepted Answer

If a payment fails, you'll receive an email notification. You'll have 7 days to update your payment details. If payment isn't received within 14 days, your website may be temporarily suspended until payment is made. We never want this to happen, so I'll always work with you to resolve any payment issues.

Question 15

Can I pay annually instead of monthly?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Annual payment is available at a discounted rate. Contact me to discuss annual pricing options. Many clients prefer this for simplified accounting and the cost savings.

Question 16

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No hidden fees, ever. The setup fee and monthly fee are clearly stated for each tier. The only additional costs would be if you request major new features, a complete redesign, or services outside the scope of normal maintenance – and these would always be discussed and quoted before any work begins.

Question 17

What's included in the monthly fee?

Accepted Answer

Your monthly fee covers: hosting on premium infrastructure, SSL security certificate, unlimited bandwidth, regular backups, security monitoring, all software updates, unlimited content updates (fair use), technical support, and 99.9% uptime guarantee.

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