FAQs
Frequently asked questions
About the process
1
How long does a website project take?
Most projects run 6 to 10 weeks from first call to launch. Smaller projects, such as a one-page site or a landing page, can move faster, sometimes 2 to 3 weeks. Timeline depends on how quickly content and feedback comes back from your side as much as mine.
2
What do I need to provide?
A clear idea of what your business does and who it is for, your logo and brand assets if you have them, and any content (text and photos) you want to use.
I can take on copywriting and sourcing imagery as paid add-ons, just say so upfront.
3
Do I need to be in London or Ealing?
No. Most of my work is done remotely and I have clients across the UK. If you are local to Ealing or West London and would prefer to meet in person, that is also fine.
About pricing
4
How much does a website cost?
The honest answer is: it depends, but here are some guidelines:
A one-page site (about your business, where you operate, your services, reviews, and a contact form) starts at around £500. Clean, professional, and does the basics well. Good for new businesses, sole traders, or anyone who needs a credible online presence quickly.
A multi-page site (text, images, video galleries, social media integration) starts at around £800. This covers a full site with separate pages for your services, about, portfolio or gallery, and contact, integrated with your Google Business Profile and social feeds.
Additional functionality is quoted individually, depending on your needs. I will always give you a clear breakdown before starting work.
I have experience in the following:
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booking systems & calendar integrations
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e-commerce
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payment processing
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content management systems
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blogs & video
If you are not sure what you need, the best starting point is a free introductory call. We can discuss your needs and I can give you a rough sense of cost at that time.
5
What about the written content?
Copywriting is available as an add-on but is not included in the base price. Good copy takes time to get right, and that is reflected in the cost.
If you would prefer to write your own content, that works well too. I will give you SEO guidance before you start, so you know which terms to include and how to structure each page for search. You write it, and I will review and optimise it as part of the build.
The same applies to images. If you have your own photography, great. If not, I can source stock imagery, or we can discuss commissioning photography depending on your budget.
Either way, we will agree upfront what you are providing and what I am producing, so there are no surprises on the final invoice.
6
Do you offer payment plans?
Typically projects are split into two payments: a deposit on project start and the balance on completion. For larger projects, staged payments can be arranged.
About ongoing support
7
Do I need ongoing support after launch?
Not necessarily. Some clients prefer a hand-off and manage the site themselves. Others prefer regular support, monthly or quarterly, for SEO, content updates, or growing the site as the business develops. Both are fine.
8
Can I update the site myself?
Yes. All sites are built on platforms designed for non-technical users (eg Wix, Squarespace or WordPress depending on your needs).
I will walk you through the update process as part of the project and provide links to relevant training documentation and materials.
9
Do you offer payment plans?
Typically projects are split into two payments: a deposit on project start and the balance on completion. For larger projects, staged payments can be arranged.
About Diopatra
10
Are you a one-person studio or an agency?
One person: me. You work directly with me throughout. I do not hand projects off to junior designers or overseas developers.
If you have needs that fall outside my skillset, I am happy to recommend people from my network, including photographers, print and product designers, copywriters and home IT support.
11
What platforms do you build on?
Primarily Wix, Squarespace, Shopify and WordPress, agreed based on what suits your project and how much you want to manage yourself after launch.
12
I have had a bad experience with a previous web designer. How are you different?
Common issues I hear: the designer disappeared after launch, the site was not mobile-friendly, it did not come up in search, or it could not be updated without paying for every small change.
I try to address all of these directly, and upfront. If I cannot meet your needs, I will say so before we start.
Every project includes two weeks of post-launch support, every site is mobile-optimised, SEO is built in from the start, and I will make sure you know how to update it yourself.
