Lesson 2: Building Your Website 

Learning Objectives 

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to: 

• Understand why every startup needs a professional website. 

• Identify the core features of a good website. 

• Plan the structure of your own website. 

• Recognise how online stores can be added when needed. 

Why Websites Matter for Startups 

• Credibility: People will search you online. A website makes your business look real and trustworthy. 

• Control: Unlike social media, your website is a space you fully own. You decide the design, the message, and the customer journey. 

• Connection: It’s the one place where customers can always find your story, your offer, and your contact details. 

• Growth: A website can start simple, then expand into a full online store, blog, or booking system as your business grows. 

Think of your website as your digital HQ — everything else (social media, ads, email) should point people back to it. 

Core Features of a Good Website 

Your website doesn’t need to be complicated. At a minimum, startups should include: 

• Homepage – First impression. A short headline about what you do and who you serve. 

• About Page – Your story, values, and what makes you unique. 

• Products / Services Page – Clear descriptions, benefits, and pricing. 

• Contact Page – Simple form, email, social links, and location if relevant. 

• Call-to-Action (CTA) – Buttons like Book Now, Shop Now, or Subscribe. 

Pro Tip: Keep it simple. Visitors usually decide in the first 2 minutes whether your site is relevant. 

Practical Tips for Startup Websites 

• Choose the right builder: Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress for flexibility; Shopify if you plan to add a store. 

• Mobile first: Most users will view your site on their phones. Test it. 

• Visuals matter: Use clean images, consistent colours, and your logo. 

• Navigation: Keep to 5–6 menu items max. Use plain words, not jargon. 

• SEO basics: Use keywords your customers search for (e.g., “London event planner” rather than “bespoke celebrations”). 

What About Online Stores? 

Your website can also include a storefront, but this depends on your business type. 

• Service-based business: You may not need a store. Instead, add a booking page or contact form. 

• Product-based business: Start simple — list products with photos and contact details. Add a store later (Shopify, Wix Store, Etsy integration). 

Remember: the website comes first. The store is an extension if you’re ready to sell directly online.