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Custom vs. Template Websites: What Every Wellness Practitioner Should Know
Creating a website for your wellness practice is a pivotal step in growing your business. But with so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Should you choose a quick and affordable template, or invest in a custom-designed website that aligns with your long-term goals?
This decision often depends on your budget, your stage in business, and the features you need. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between custom and template websites and introduce a tailored option that combines the best of both worlds: the LAUNCH website design package.
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1. What Is a Template Website?
Template websites are pre-designed layouts offered by Squarespace, WordPress, Wix and others. They make it easy for anyone—regardless of technical skills—to get started with a professional-looking site. You can also purchase a pre-designed template from a template shop specialising in a particular platform and/or business niche.
Pros of Template Websites
Affordable: Templates are cost-effective, making them accessible to those just starting out.
Quick to Launch: With some basic skill and the right tools, you can have your site live in a matter of days.
Beginner-Friendly: Drag-and-drop functionality and built-in features simplify the design process.
Cons of Template Websites
Lack of Personalisation: Templates are exactly what they say they are, so they may feel generic unless customised well.
DIY SEO: Most template setups leave the responsibility for SEO in your hands, which can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the processes or even the importance of SEO in the first place.
Scalability Challenges: As your business grows, you may encounter limitations in terms of functionality and performance.
Platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress offer templates that make website building accessible, even for those without technical skills.
2. What Is a Custom Website?
A custom website is designed from scratch or heavily tailored to your unique needs. It reflects your brand’s identity, includes bespoke features, and offers advanced functionality.
Pros of Custom Websites
Completely Unique: Custom websites are tailored specifically to your brand, helping you stand out.
Scalable: Designed to grow with your business, custom sites are a long-term investment.
Advanced Features: You can include functionality like personalised booking systems, membership portals, or advanced analytics.
Cons of Custom Websites
Higher Cost: The bespoke nature of custom sites makes them more expensive.
Longer Development Time: Creating a fully custom website typically takes several weeks.
Requires Expertise: Working with an experienced designer is essential to get the most value.
3. Bridging the Gap: The LAUNCH Website Design Package
For wellness practitioners just starting out or working with a smaller budget, I created the LAUNCH website design package—a solution that combines the affordability of templates with the strategy and expertise of a professional design process.
Why LAUNCH Works for Wellness Practitioners
Value Without Compromise: LAUNCH offers the foundation of a template-based design but elevates it with professional, personalised styling. We’ll adapt your site with your unique colour palette, fonts, and imagery, ensuring it reflects your brand beautifully.
Strategy-Driven Design: You won’t have to navigate the process alone. With the help of detailed strategy and preparation workbooks, I’ll ensure the content of your website aligns with your business goals and ideal client.
Built-In SEO Foundations: Unlike DIY templates, the LAUNCH package includes all the foundational SEO work to ensure your site is search-engine-ready from day one. No extra setup or guesswork required!
Quick Turnaround: Perfect for those eager to get online quickly, this package delivers a professionally tailored website in a fraction of the time it takes to build a fully custom site (5 business days, to be precise).
4. Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose a Template Website If:
You’re just starting out and need a basic, cost-effective solution.
You’re comfortable handling DIY setup and ongoing updates, including SEO.
Choose a Custom Website If:
You’ve established your business and want a website that’s fully tailored to your brand.
You need advanced features to support your growing practice.
Choose the LAUNCH Website Design Package If:
You want the affordability of a template but with the expertise and personalisation of a professional design process.
You value having foundational SEO in place without the hassle of doing it yourself.
You’re ready to create a professional online presence quickly, without compromising on strategy or style.
Choosing between custom and template websites doesn’t have to be a daunting decision. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, there’s a solution that fits your needs.
The LAUNCH Website Design Package is a perfect choice for wellness practitioners who want value, personalisation, and SEO foundations built in. It’s an investment in your business that ensures you’re set up for success from day one.
Ready to bring your vision to life?
Let’s work together to create a website that reflects your mission and connects with your ideal clients. Book an enquiry call today.
Not sure whether you need a new website, some work done on your existing one, or perhaps you need SEO?
Take my quiz to work out your next steps.
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Your Website Should Work for You—Not the Other Way Around
I design strategic, high-converting websites for wellness practitioners, ensuring your online presence reflects your expertise and attracts your ideal clients. Whether you need a fully Custom Website, a Refresh, or my template-based Launch Design Package to get online fast—I’ve got you covered.
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Sam Ferguson is a website designer and SEO specialist for nutritionists, functional medicine practitioners, and women in wellness. With a unique blend of industry insight and technical expertise, Sam helps clients create impactful websites that attract, engage, and convert. When she’s not designing, you’ll find her sharing practical digital marketing tips to help wellness professionals grow their online presence with confidence.