Before a website project starts, gather your logo files, brand colors and fonts, a list of pages, draft copy for each page, your best photos, examples of your work, client testimonials you have permission to use, and access to your domain and current website. Rough copy is fine. Having everything in one place is what keeps a project on schedule.
The fastest website projects have one thing in common: the client shows up prepared. Here's what to gather before kickoff.
Brand assets
- Logo files. SVG or high-resolution PNG with a transparent background.
- Colors and fonts. If you have brand guidelines, send them.
- Examples you like. Two or three sites you admire, plus one you don't.
Pages and copy
- A page list. Home, services, about, work, contact, and anything else you need.
- Draft copy for each page. Bullet points are fine. Focus on what you do, who it's for and why clients choose you.
- Common questions. The questions you answer on every sales call make great website content.
Proof
- Project examples. Photos, case studies or before-and-after images.
- Testimonials. Short quotes from real clients, with their permission.
- Credentials. Certifications, awards or memberships worth mentioning.
Photos
- Your team. Natural, well-lit portraits work better than stiff headshots.
- Your space or work. Wide shots and close-ups.
- Originals. Send full-resolution files, not screenshots.
Access
- Domain. Login for your registrar or DNS provider.
- Current website. Access to the existing site, if there is one.
- Connected tools. Booking, email marketing or forms.
Pull it together in one folder
Put everything in one shared folder, organized by page. It saves hours of back-and-forth and gets you to launch sooner.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need final copy before we start?
No. Rough notes for each page are enough to begin, as long as they cover what you want to say.
Can I use stock photos?
Yes, but your own photos of your team, space and work usually build more trust.
What access will the studio need?
Usually your domain registrar or DNS provider, plus any tools the site connects to, such as booking or email software.
Need a better website?
Fixed-scope packages from $3,500.