Hiring a Web Designer vs. Using a Template: What’s Best for Small Business?

When launching a small business, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is how to establish your online presence. At the heart of that decision is a question many business owners ask themselves: Should I hire a freelance web designer or use a website template? Each option has pros and cons, and choosing the right one can have a lasting impact on how customers perceive your brand.

Let’s explore the benefits and limitations of both paths to help you make the smartest decision for your business.

Why a Website Is Non-Negotiable for Small Businesses

Your website is your business’s digital storefront. Whether you’re a local bakery, a fitness coach, or a tech consultant, your online presence influences how trustworthy, professional, and legitimate you appear to potential customers.

A good website:

• Builds credibility
• Showcases your services or products
• Helps people find you via search engines (SEO)
• Converts visitors into paying customers

It’s not just about having a site, it’s about having the right site for your audience and goals.

Option 1: Hiring a Freelance Web Designer

A freelance web designer offers a customized solution tailored to your specific needs, brand identity, and business goals. Unlike full-time employees or expensive agencies, freelancers give you flexibility and creative control, without the overhead.

Benefits of Hiring a Freelance Web Designer

• Personalized Design: A freelancer can create a site that’s unique to your brand, helping you stand out in a crowded market.
• Scalable Functionality: Need an online booking system, e-commerce store, or custom form? A freelancer can build features aligned with your long-term goals.
• Mobile & SEO Optimization: Experienced freelancers understand responsive design and can build your site with SEO best practices from the start.
• Cost-Effective Expertise: Freelancers often provide agency-level work at a fraction of the price, especially when hired through vetted marketplaces like Twine.

Considerations

• Budget: While more affordable than agencies, freelancers will cost more than a DIY template. However, you’re paying for tailored functionality and branding.
• Timeline: Custom work takes time. If you’re in a rush, communicate deadlines clearly or consider starting with a simple landing page.

Option 2: Using a Website Template

Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress offer ready-made templates that make it easy to build a site quickly and affordably. For new businesses or solopreneurs just testing the waters, this can be a practical first step.

Benefits of Using a Template

• Low Cost: Templates often come free or are bundled with your hosting plan.
• Speed: You can launch a site in days, sometimes even hours.
• Ease of Use: No coding required—just drag and drop your content into the layout.

Considerations

• Limited Customization: You’re locked into a design structure, which may not fully reflect your brand identity or adapt as you grow.
• Generic Appearance: Many other businesses may be using the same template, making it harder to stand out.
• SEO and Performance: Some templates are poorly optimized, which can affect how search engines rank your site.

Which One Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick way to decide:

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a freelance web designer and a website template isn’t just about cost, it’s about fit. Templates can be a great quick fix, but if you want to build a memorable brand and user experience, investing in a freelance designer is often worth it.

Need Help Building Your Website?

At Twine, we connect small businesses with experienced freelance web designers who understand your unique needs. Whether you’re starting from scratch or want to enhance an existing site, our community of talented freelancers is ready to help, without the high cost of an agency or the limitations of a template.

👉 Post your project for free on Twine today and find the perfect designer to bring your vision to life.