Your Friends + Family Can Build Your Website...But Should They?

The short answer to this is no. Sorry, but no.

I recently had two web design clients that had family members or friends create and design their website for them, and the ultimately came to me to help because the original design was not what they wanted, it didn't align with their brand, and it was messy. Now, that being said if you have a friend or family member that designs websites for a living and they offer to do yours - that's a win! What I'm talking about is the friends and family that don't do it for a living and don't understand the in's and out's of creating a website that engages, converts, and allows your customers to navigate through your site easily.

1. Lack of Professional Expertise: While your cousin may be a whiz with Photoshop or your best friend might have a knack for doodling, designing a website requires more than just creativity. It demands a deep understanding of user experience (UX) design, user interface (UI) design, accessibility, and coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Without these skills, your website might end up looking amateurish and lacking critical functionalities.
2. Strained Relationships: Mixing business with personal relationships can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. If your friend or family member is unable to meet your expectations or deadlines, it could strain your relationship with them. Additionally, it might be challenging to provide honest feedback or request revisions without potentially hurting their feelings.
3. Limited Resources and Support: Unlike professional web designers or agencies, your friend or family member may not have access to the necessary resources, tools, or support systems needed to create and maintain a high-quality website. This could result in subpar performance, security vulnerabilities, and difficulties in scaling your website as your business grows.
4. Time Constraints and Priorities: Your friend or family member likely has other commitments and responsibilities outside of designing your website. As a result, they may not be able to dedicate the time and attention required to deliver a polished and timely product. Delays in the design process could hinder your ability to launch your website and capitalize on business opportunities.
5. Professional Image and Credibility: Your website serves as a digital storefront for your brand or business. It's often the first point of contact for potential customers or clients, and it plays a crucial role in shaping their perception of your professionalism and credibility. Investing in a professionally designed website not only enhances your brand image but also instills confidence in your audience.

So, what's the alternative? Consider hiring a professional web designer or agency who can bring expertise, experience, and dedication to the table. While it may involve a higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits in terms of quality, reliability, and peace of mind far outweigh the initial investment.

Remember, your website is a key part of your online presence and marketing strategy. Don't settle for anything less than excellence. Your business deserves it!

Have you had any experiences, positive or negative, with having a friend or family member design your website?

All the best,

Téa Rae Designs