Website Platforms: Is Squarespace Good For Small Businesses?
Choosing a good website platform for your small business can feel like trying to pick the perfect avocado at the grocery store (and as a web designer with a 6-foot tall avocado tree…I know the challenges of both).
Too hard, and you have to outsource every update to an expert which costs time and money. Too soft, and it might not last as your business grows.
But what if I told you there's a platform that's always perfectly ripe? A platform that's ready to use right away, supports your business as it grows, and doesn't require a computer science degree just to update your About page?
Enter Squarespace – the ideal website platform for small businesses.
As someone who's been using Squarespace for over a decade – both for my business and clients – I've seen firsthand how it's evolved from a simple website builder to a powerful all-in-one platform. With every new feature and update, it's clear they're keeping us small business owners in mind.
So in this post, we're digging into why Squarespace might be the Goldilocks solution for your small business website. Not too simple, not too complex, but just right. We'll explore its features, debunk some myths, and share real success stories that'll make you wonder why you ever considered any other platform.
Before You Choose A Website Platform
Choosing a website platform isn't a decision to make lightly – it's the foundation of your online presence. So, let's walk through a few key factors you should consider first:
Map Out Your Business Goals
What do you want your website to do for your business? Are you looking to showcase your portfolio, sell products, book appointments, or all the above? Your goals will help determine which features you need from a website platform.Assess Your Tech Skills (and Interest)
Be honest with yourself. Are you a tech whiz or do you avoid updating your laptop in fear of new changes? There's no shame in either answer, but it'll help you decide if you need a platform that's easy for you to learn or if you’ll outsource everything to a pro no matter what.Consider Your Budget
Websites aren't a one-time expense. There’s the monthly subscription plan for the platform and hosting, plus any design support you want to bring on. Think about what you can afford now and what you can invest as your business grows.Picture Your Product Lineup
Do you have physical products to sell? How many do you have now, and how might that change? Some platforms handle small inventories beautifully but struggle with larger ones.Think About Your Marketing Plans
Are you planning to start a blog? Send out email newsletters? Launch a course? Look for a platform that supports your marketing efforts instead of bouncing between different programs, trying to link them all together.
Remember, choosing a website platform is about finding the right fit for your business – both for where you are now and where you want to be in the future.
Now that you have your website platform wishlist, it’s time to see how Squarespace measures up.
What Is Squarespace?
Squarespace is your one-stop-shop for all things website. It's where you build your site, host it, and manage it, all in one place.
The platform offers customizable templates and a user-friendly editor, letting you create a site that's uniquely you. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer to hire a designer, Squarespace makes it easy to get the look you want.
Want to sell stuff, blog, or book appointments? Squarespace has got you covered. Plus, they throw in tools for email marketing, SEO, and analytics. By taking care of the complicated technical stuff, Squarespace lets you focus on what matters – running your business.
Why Is Squarespace Good For Small Businesses?
Let's break it down. Here's why Squarespace is a small business owner's best friend:
User-Friendly Interface
Squarespace's drag-and-drop editor makes it easy for you to update your website in the future.
Ramsay Hair Salon uses Squarespace with an appointment booking plugin. They can easily update services, manage availability, and use the announcement bar for promos or changed hours - all without paying someone each time they need a tweak.
All-In-One Platform
Hosting, domain, emails, design - it's all under one roof which means less switching between programs and managing costly subscriptions.
Scalability
Start small, dream big. Squarespace grows with you, whether you're adding a blog, online store, or even online courses.
Calibre Electrical loved their Squarespace site so much that we’re building an e-commerce site for their second brand, Stock + Custom, on the platform.
Flexible Design Options
DIY enthusiast? Go for it. Want to bring in a professional designer? That’s exactly what I’m here for. You’ve got options when it comes to Squarespace web design.
Danielle at Sayge Marketing took her Solopreneur Sprint Mini Brand and DIY-ed a simple Squarespace website on her own!
Built-In SEO Tools
Squarespace’s simple SEO tools help clients find you online without paying for boosted ads or bringing in a whole SEO team.
24/7 Customer Support
Got a question at 2 AM? Squarespace's chat and email support have got your back. Plus, there are online forums where you can troubleshoot problems or see how others have tackled similar issues.
It’s not all sunshine and daisies, though. Squarespace does have a few cons to consider.
Squarespace likes to keep things in-house, which means fewer third-party options compared to platforms like WordPress.
While not the most budget-friendly option out there, Squarespace's pricing reflects its premium features.
Squarespace is great for smaller shops but if you’re planning on being the next big thing in e-commerce, you might outgrow it eventually.
Even with these drawbacks, Squarespace remains a strong choice for many small businesses because it strikes a balance between ease of use and powerful features, giving you a professional online presence without tech stress.
Making Your Website Platform Decision
Now that you know what Squarespace offers, you might be wondering about the best way to bring your website to life. Whether you're a solopreneur ready to make your mark or an established business looking to level up, I've got a Squarespace solution for you:
Solopreneur Sprint: A streamlined 3-page, template-customized website. Ideal for quickly establishing your online presence with a professional touch.
Custom Website: A comprehensive 5+ page custom Squarespace website. Perfect for businesses ready to fully showcase their brand and offerings online.
Together, we’ll create a Squarespace website that truly represents your small business.