What a website actually is
Simply put, a website is a collection of pages (these can be text files, images, videos etc) that live together on a powerful, always-on computer called a server.
When someone wants to visit your website, they open the application (app) they normally use to look things up online (like Chrome, Safari, or Edge). They tap or type the address of your site, and their device fetches those pages from the server so they can view your pages on their device.
That’s all a website really is: a place on the internet where people can find you and see your information.
What a domain name is (and why you need one)
A domain name is simply the name of your website — the thing people tap or type when they want to visit it.
Examples:
- yourbusiness.co.uk
- joesplumbing.com
- brightcafe.co.uk
Think of it like the name of a shop on a high street. It tells people where to go.
You choose the name (something no one else already uses), you buy it, and you renew it - usually once a year. That’s it.
What hosting is (and why it’s separate)
If your domain name is the name of your shop, then hosting is the building your shop sits in.
Hosting is the service that stores your website’s pages and keeps them available 24/7 so people can visit.
You need both:
- a domain name (your website’s name)
- a hosting space (the place your website lives)
So, a domain name and hosting space are separate things, but they work together.
How people visit a website
People use an application (app) on their phone or computer to look things up online — apps like Chrome, Safari, or Edge. These are called browsers, but you don’t need to remember that.
They tap or type your website’s name (your domain), and their device fetches your pages from the server so they can see them.
That’s the whole journey: name → server → pages on screen.
The different ways to get a website
There are three main routes. None are “right” or “wrong” — they just suit different people and comfort/skill levels.
1. Build it yourself using a website builder
Tools like Wix, Squarespace, or GoDaddy let you create a site using drag‑and‑drop tools.
Good for: very small budgets, simple sites, people who enjoy learning new software.
Many people find these tools harder than expected. Features that most businesses need — like contact forms, booking tools, or removing ads — often cost extra, so the price can rise quickly. A lot of small business owners come to professional designers after feeling stuck or overwhelmed by these systems.
2. Use a template and customise it
A pre‑designed layout you adapt to your business.
Good for: people who want something nicer than DIY but still affordable.
Templates can look polished, but they often feel generic because many other businesses use the same design. They also have limits — you can only change what the template allows.
3. Get a bespoke, hand‑built website
A designer builds your site from scratch, shaped around your business, your personality, and your customers.
Good for: businesses who want something unique, warm, and long‑lasting.
A bespoke site is built to fit you, not the other way around. Everything — layout, features, forms, structure — is designed around your needs. And if you choose designers who charge a fixed one‑off price, you know exactly what you’re getting, and essential features aren’t hidden behind add‑ons or upgrades.
What you need before you start
You don’t need perfect branding or a full business plan. You just need a few basics:
- your business name
- a short description of what you do
- your services or products
- your contact details
- any photos you already have
- a sense of your personality (friendly? formal? relaxed?)
A good designer will help you shape the rest.
How much a website costs (in simple terms)
Like any service, the costs vary tremendously, and what appears 'cheap' at first can often come with hidden extras, regular fees or contract tie-ins. But, to help give an idea, here are the typical costs for a basic website:
- domain name: £5–£15 per year
- hosting: £5–£20 per month
- DIY website builders: £10–£30 per month, plus extra fees for features like forms, booking tools, or removing ads
- templates: £50–£300 one‑off
- bespoke websites: £400–£5,000+ depending on size and complexity
Some designers (such as ours) offer a single fixed price that includes everything you need — design, build, forms, structure, and support — so there are no surprises or add‑ons later. This can be simpler and more predictable than subscription‑based builders.
What happens after your website goes live
Once your website is online and people can visit it, there are a few things to think about over the months and years ahead. What you’ll need to do depends on how your site was built and how often your information changes.
Keeping your information up to date
Some websites are “static”, meaning the information stays correct for a long time. If your services, prices, or details rarely change, you can simply let the site do its job.
If your business changes more often — for example, you post news, update prices, add new services, or run events — you’ll need to update your pages from time to time. Many sites use a simple tool called a content management system (CMS), which lets you make changes without needing to know how to code.
A good designer will set this up for you and show you how to use it, or make updates for you if you prefer.
Helping people find your website
Search engines like Google and Bing need to “index” your website so it can appear in search results. Most designers (including us) handle this as part of the build process.
If you work in a competitive market, it also helps if your site is structured in a way that search engines understand. This is called search engine optimisation (SEO). The basics include clear page titles, good headings, fast loading times, and helpful content — all things a well‑built site should already have.
Over time, your site can naturally climb higher in search results as you add useful content and people spend time on your pages.
What you’ll need to look after
To keep your website running smoothly over the next few years, you’ll need to make sure:
• your domain name renews every year
• your hosting renews monthly or yearly
• your content stays up to date
• your site gets occasional maintenance (small fixes, updates, or checks)
• you can add new pages or features later if your business grows
Many designers include some or all of these things as part of their service, so you’re not left to manage everything on your own.
In short, you can just keep up the hosting and domain name payments and leave your website to do its work. Or, you can add to and improve your site over time, letting it grow with your business and support you as you evolve.
Common questions beginners ask
Do I need to know how to code?
No. Most websites today are built without writing code.
Can I change things later?
Yes. Most websites can be updated at any time - but be careful that website builder sites (Go Daddy, Squarespace etc) allow you to do so, and some of these may charge for the privilege.
What if I don’t have photos yet?
You can start with simple images or placeholders and update them later. The Web Constructors offer licensed image sourcing as well, if required.
What if I don’t know what pages I need?
Most small businesses start with Home, About, Services, and Contact. Here at The Web Constructors, we can provide the layout and wording too, if required.
A simple checklist to help you get started
You’ll be in a great position to begin if you can think through questions like these:
- What do you want your website to do?
(Show your work, bring in enquiries, take bookings, sell products, or simply give you a professional presence.)
- Who is the site for (aimed at)?
(Your ideal customer, the people you most want to reach, or the community you serve.)
- What pages do you think you may need?
(A home page, 'about me' page, your services, contact info, or anything specific to your trade or business.)
- Do you want to build it yourself, or would you prefer someone build it for you?
(Both paths are valid — it’s just about what feels comfortable and how much time you have to devote to it)
- Do you have a name (domain) in mind?
(Something simple, memorable, and close to your business name if possible.)
If you can answer even half of these, you’re already further along than you think. But don't worry if you can't answer any of it; it's common to feel unsure or even overwhelmed. We recommend talking to a web designer - we will be happy to explain each step and what will fit your needs best.
In Conclusion
Your website should be more than a box you tick or a placeholder on the internet. It should feel like a natural extension of your business — something that builds trust, helps people understand what you do, and makes it easy for them to get in touch.
Some people are happy using templates or DIY builders, and that’s completely fine. But many find these services very confusing. Others want something clearer, calmer, and built around their business rather than squeezed into a pre‑made shape.
If you prefer a website that’s hand‑built for you, with a single fixed price and no hidden extras, that’s exactly what we do. We create unique, thoughtful websites for small businesses and trades that want something reliable, personal, and easy to live with — without the ongoing surprises or add‑ons many platforms charge for.
Wherever you are in your journey, the important thing is that your website feels like you and supports the people you want to reach.