Why preparing everything first saves time
How long a project takes doesn't only depend on who builds the site. It also depends on how long it takes to gather what goes inside it: text, images, logo, access details. When that's ready on day one, the project moves without pauses. When it's missing, every stage waits on an email that hasn't arrived yet.
The text for each page
Write, even in draft form, what you want to say on each page: who the business is, what it sells or does, and why someone should choose it. It doesn't need to be final copy, a professional studio organises and improves the writing. But starting from a blank page costs both of you time. If you're unsure what to write, gather at least: opening hours, address or service area, contact details, and one sentence that sums up the business.
Logo and images
If you already have a logo, send the original file, not a screenshot or a photo of a business card. Formats like .ai, .eps, .svg or transparent .png give the best result. Add real photos of the business too: the space, the products, the team. Generic stock photos make any site look like every other one.
Sites you like
Gather two or three examples of sites you admire, even from different industries. You don't need a technical explanation, "I like how this is organised" or "I hate this kind of menu" already gives useful information. It saves several rounds of back and forth on visual style.
Domain and hosting
If you already have a registered domain, keep the account access handy. If you don't yet, you don't have to sort this out alone, but it's worth having already thought about the name you want. Domain and hosting are usually not included in the website price, and a serious studio helps choose and set them up at no extra cost for the support.
Social media and contact details
List the social media accounts you already use and want linked to the site: Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp. Also confirm which email and phone number you want shown to visitors. It sounds minor, but it's the kind of detail that often stays unconfirmed until the end, delaying launch over something small.
What to expect after sending it all
With the content ready, a simple project moves in a few weeks. Most of the time lost on website projects goes into waiting for information only the client has. Preparing this before contacting a studio is the most direct way to speed up your own project.
Already have all this ready, or want help organising it? Get in touch.
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