Web Design & Development

1. What platforms do you build websites on?
I design with your long-term needs in mind. I’m currently shifting my focus to learning Webflow, which offers powerful design flexibility without sacrificing ease of use for regular consumers. I hand draw or use Figma to create wireframes and plan layouts before the build, so you can clearly visualize your site ahead of time.

I do work with Squarespace and Wix. While I do have experience with WordPress, I generally steer clients away from it, especially if your site needs regular updates or includes e-commerce. It can become more time consuming and fragile than other platforms which are built for ease and reliability.

2. Do you only work with Squarespace?
Not at all. While my current client sites are often built on Squarespace and Wix, I’m in the process of transitioning my workflow to Webflow for more robust customization and scalability.

I still support a range of platforms, but I typically recommend steering clear of WordPress for clients who plan to make ongoing updates, especially for e-commerce or service-based businesses, due to its heavier maintenance and plugin reliance.

If your existing site is built on another platform, that’s totally fine. In most cases, we can migrate your content to a better builder with improved user experience, SEO structure, and design flexibility.

3. How long does a typical website project take?
Most projects take about three to six weeks, depending on the number of pages, how quickly we gather content, our communication frequency, and any extra features you might need. I’ll always keep you updated along the way.

4. How involved will I be in the design process?
I treat web design as a collaboration. I’ll guide you through each step, from planning and content collection to vibe check and launch. You’ll approve major milestones and provide feedback along the way, but I do my best to make the process smooth and low stress, especially if you’re juggling a million other things, like parenting or running a business.

5. Can you redesign my existing website?
Absolutely. Whether your current site just needs a visual refresh or a full strategic overhaul, I can help. If your existing platform is limiting your goals or hard to manage, we can also migrate your site to a builder that better suits your needs (like Squarespace, Wix, or Webflow). I’ll guide you through the pros and cons of moving platforms and make the transition smooth and stress-free.

6. Do you offer e-commerce website design?
Yes, I offer e-commerce set-up and design for small  businesses. I can set up product listings, booking systems, and payment integrations depending on your platform. If you need a full scale online store, we’ll talk through what’s involved and what kind of support you might need. 

Process & Packages

7. What’s included in your website packages?
Every custom project includes a discovery call, strategic planning, content collection guidance, a color and font palette or “vibe check,” full web design, mobile optimization, basic SEO setup, and launch support. You’ll also get a walkthrough video so you know how to use your site. Optional add-ons like e-commerce, blog setup, extra pages, or AI chatbots are available too! Check out my Services page to find inspiration for your site!

8. How do we get started?
Start by reaching out! You can fill out my contact form, schedule a meeting, or connect with me on Linkedin and send me a message. From there we’ll have a conversation so that I can learn about your business and goals. Then, I’ll send a proposal with project details, pricing, and a suggested timeline based on our conversation. After you approve the proposal, I’ll finalize a contract and when it’s signed and the deposit is paid, I’ll be ready to start your project. 

9. What happens if I don’t have any content yet?
That’s totally okay. I can help guide you through what to write, how to organize it, and even suggest layouts that work best for your message. If you need more hands-on support, content writing help can be included in your package. I can also make suggestions about what kind of photos or videos you may want to take, or i can find high end licensed images for you. 

10. Do you provide help with writing my website content?
Yes. I offer content support to help you shape your message clearly and effectively. You’ll get prompts, templates, and feedback to make sure your site sounds like you and speaks to your audience. If you’d prefer I Write it all for you, I can include that in your proposal quote.

11. What if I need more than 3 pages?
That’s no problem. My Starter package has one page, my Essentials package includes up to 3 pages, and my Full Build package has 5 pages, but you can always add more. Each additional page is priced separately, and I’ll outline everything in your custom proposal so there are no surprises.

12. Can you help me with domain transfer or setup?
Yes. If you already have a domain or need to transfer it from another provider like Bluehost or GoDaddy, I can take care of the technical setup. I’ll also make sure your domain is connected securely to your new site before launch.

Branding & Aesthetics

13. Do you offer logo or branding design?
I do offer simple logo feedback and design and can help you establish a cohesive visual identity, especially if you’re just getting started. If your project needs more indepth branding, I may suggest reaching out to a Brand Designer.

14. What’s a “vibe check” and why do you include it?
The vibe check is my way of making sure your site will look and feel like you. I’ll present a color palette and font pairings based on your business model, logo,and personal taste. Once we agree on a visual direction, I’ll carry that through your entire site for consistency and style.

15. Can you match the look of my social media or print materials?
Yes. If you already have a logo, colors, or existing branding, I’ll make sure your website aligns with everything else your audience sees. Consistency builds trust, and I’ll help keep your visuals on-brand across the board.

AI Chatbots

16. What is an AI chatbot and how does it work on my site?
An AI chatbot is a smart tool embedded on your website that can answer common customer questions 24/7 using information you provide. It helps streamline communication, improve user experience, and free up your time.

17. What do I need to provide for you to build my chatbot?
You’ll share your FAQs, policies, service details, or other documents you'd like the bot to learn from. I’ll use that info to train your chatbot so it gives helpful, accurate responses tailored to your business. I can then customize the chatbot to provide specific style of answers (very professional, or maybe more casual)

18. Can the chatbot answer questions unique to my business?
Yes. It’s fully customizable and trained on your materials, so it reflects your tone, offerings, and policies. Whether it’s booking info, product details, or how you do things differently, the chatbot can handle it.

19. Will you train me or my team to use and update the chatbot?
Absolutely. I’ll show you how to adjust the chatbots parameters, update its knowledge base, and make tweaks if needed. You’ll get a simple walkthrough so you feel confident managing it going forward.

20. Is the chatbot secure and does it collect customer data?
The chatbot is secure and privacy-conscious. It does not store or collect personal data unless you choose to enable specific features. I’ll make sure everything is set up with best practices in mind.

SEO & Performance

21. Is SEO included in your web design packages?
Basic SEO is always included. I’ll make sure your site has proper structure, page titles, meta descriptions, and keyword-friendly headings. If you need a more advanced SEO strategy, I can refer you to specialists or include additional services in your proposal depending on your individual needs.

22. Will my site show up on Google?
Yes. I’ll make sure your site is visible to search engines and help you get listed properly. Keep in mind that SEO takes time and consistency, but I’ll give you a strong foundation to build from.

23. Can you help with Google Business Profiles or local SEO?
Yes. If you’re a local business, I can guide you in setting up or optimizing your Google Business Profile. I can also tailor your site content to improve local search visibility.

Ongoing Support

24. Do you offer website maintenance after launch?
Yes. I offer two Care plans that may cover updates, tech support, and small content changes each month. It’s great if you want peace of mind and someone to keep your site up to date.

26. What if I just need a quick update or fix?
You can always reach out for one-time updates or troubleshooting. I offer hourly and flat-rate options depending on the task, and I’m happy to help whether or not you’re on a maintenance plan.

27. Do I need to stay on a maintenance plan?
Not at all. The plan is completely optional. Some clients love having me on call, while others prefer to manage things on their own after launch. I’ll give you the tools and knowledge to handle your site either way.

Working Together

28. Do you only work with small businesses or parents?
Not at all. I love working with small businesses, solopreneurs, and creatives of all kinds. That said, I do have a soft spot for fellow parents and people growing something meaningful on limited time. If that’s you, we’ll get along great.

29. Do you work with clients outside of Pennsylvania?
Yes, I work with clients across the US, Canada, and beyond. We can collaborate entirely online wherever you’re located, and I’ll make the process easy and personal.

30. What’s your background in web design?
I have my B. of S. degree in Organizational and Professional Communication, and my path to web design has been a steady build of skills over time. I took design and desktop publishing related courses in college and worked on designing marketing materials (like flyers, business cards, and banners) while at Staples. Later, I created an internal SharePoint website for T-Mobile to streamline business communications. Now, I'm running my own design studio and currently taking a Web Design certification course to sharpen my skills and stay on top of modern tools and trends. I love combining creativity, structure, and strategy to build websites that actually work for small businesses.

31. Why is your business called “Sytegeist”?
It’s a play on “zeitgeist,” meaning the spirit of the times in German, but with a web design twist syte = site. I was born in Germany and while the actual word is German, “Sytegeist” reflects my belief that your website should capture the spirit of your business and connect with your audience in a meaningful way. 

32. What makes your design approach different?
I focus on function then face, meaning I prioritize strategy, efficiency, and usability before jumping into the aesthetics. My process is thoughtful, collaborative, and designed to meet you where you are. I want your site to work hard and look good.

Contact Information

33. How can I contact you? 

Please refer to my “Contact Me” page and pick your most convenient form of communication, or ask my trained AI Chatbot for information about how to contact me. Listing contact information directly on your website can lead to an increase in spam messages.