Squarespace Templates vs Custom Website Design: Which Option Is Best For You?
So you’ve decided to use Squarespace for your site and now you’re wondering if you should buy a Squarespace template or invest in a custom design.
Both choices are great for creating a drop dead gorgeous website but which one is right for you?
That’s what this post is all about. I’ll share my best tips and recommendations to help you decide which option you should choose.
Squarespace Templates: What Are They And How Do They Work?
So first let’s talk about Squarespace templates. Squarespace templates are not traditional templates like you might expect. Since Squarespace is a closed platform, there is no way to zip up all the template files and share with someone like you can with WordPress themes.
Similarly, there is no share key like there is with Showit templates that would allow for a seamless installation of the template onto your Showit website.
Squarespace templates are more like design kits that you apply to your website in one of two ways:
The template designer duplicates the template and invites you as a contributor. You can then login to your new Squarespace website, add your content, upgrade your plan, and launch.
Alternatively, the template designer creates step-by-step video tutorials that you follow in order to re-create the design on your Squarespace website.
The exact process varies from one Squarespace designer to another so before you make your purchase, make sure you know what’s involved and what you’ll need to do. It’s worth mentioning that some Squarespace designers do offer template installation services for an additional fee so if you don’t want the hassle of doing it yourself, you can always opt for this route.
As far as price goes, again, it depends from one designer to the next. Generally speaking, you can find Squarespace templates for as low as $80 and the price can go up to $500. My Squarespace templates start at $150 and come preinstalled in your Squarespace account. This means all you need to do is add your content, customize, and you’re ready to launch.
Pros of buying a Squarespace template:
You’ll learn how to work with Squarespace so you’ll know how to update your site whenever you need without relying on anyone else
More affordable option, especially if you’re just getting started
You can completely customize the template to your liking
Cons of buying a Squarespace template:
If the template requires you to recreate the design from scratch, it will take some time to do it right
While you can customize the template to make it unique, keep in mind that it won’t be 100% custom to your business as a custom design would be
If you’re interested in learning more about using a Squarespace template, check out the following posts I wrote:
Custom Design: What Is It And How Does It Work?
Custom design, on the other hand, is just what the name says. You hire a designer to design a website for you. Since the designer is building a site from scratch, the length of time depends on the complexity of your project and the availability of the designer.
For example, my design packages include a One Day Website, perfect for smaller websites; and a complete Brand and Web Design package done in 4 weeks.
As far as price goes, this really depends on the designer and can be as low as $1000 or as high as $10000. Do your research to ensure your preferred designer is within your budget. It’s worth mentioning that most designers will offer payment plans so you don’t have to pay everything upfront.
Pros of hiring a designer:
You’ll get the exact website you want, designed with your business in mind
You’ll stand out with a custom design
You can focus on other aspects of your business
Cons of hiring a designer:
It’s more expensive than DIY-ing your song
You’ll need to hire a designer every time you need to make changes
If you’re ready to make an investment in your business and hire a designer, check out the following posts:
Premium Squarespace Templates vs Custom Design: Which One Should You Choose?
So now that you know the difference between using a template and hiring a designer for a custom design, let’s talk about which option is best for you.
When to use a premium Squarespace template
Generally speaking a template is a better option if you’re just getting started. Your business will change so much during the first year that you’d either end up with an outdated website or have to hire a designer every time something changes.
It’s better for your business and your wallet to opt for a template and learn how to work with your website platform so you can confidently make updates whenever you need to. It’s kind of like the “teach a man to fish'' situation.
When to choose custom design
A custom design is better if you’re further along in your business and want to take your site to the next level. If you’re clear on the direction of your business and have an offer that is working really well for you, then a custom website can elevate your brand and help you reach the desired income.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this clears up some confusion and helps you decide which option is best for you. Settled on a Squarespace template? With a Ley Design Studio template, you can launch your website quickly and without any tech overwhelm.
What’s even better, they come preinstalled in your Squarespace account so all you have to do is replace content, add your images, connect your domain, and upgrade your site! Browse the collection of templates to find the one that fits your brand and business best and you’ll go live in no time.