By now, a lot of you have been to my new website. You’ve taken a tour and know what’s there [and entered my giveaway a few weeks ago], and so this might be old news. But I still find myself visiting my own website just because I love the feeling of it so much! Although it has been just under two months since I launched my website, I wanted to share the significant changes that occurred.

Home. The website as a whole was lacking personality. The home page was simple – my favorite image with a menu and logo. But now, the website has personality. It reflects the colors I love, with a layout that is relaxing and and easy to navigate.

About. My first about page was an image with a paragraph. There was no space for creativity, and only one space for one image. I couldn’t change fonts or layout. Now, my about page has depth, multiple images, space for me to write, and a sweet little secret section – More About Ali.

Portfolio. Before, the galleries were thumbnails. There was the option to run a slideshow, but sometimes the website would get out of whack and the images would appear in different places on the screen – so distracting and annoying! It turned me off, but there was no way to change it. Also, uploading images took a while. Now, the portfolio is displayed on a slide bar that you control. There are no more thumbnail images [hooray!] and the horizontal scroll is so appealing to the eye.

Contact. My previous website had the option for a contact form, but I would sometimes not receive messages. I was notified to this by a client who was nice enough to send me a facebook message letting me know that I hadn’t responded. UGH. How embarrassing, but I took the form down and put up my email address for people to use. This however, lead to a much lengthier process of getting information. Sometimes, people wouldn’t even leave their names or ANY details about their wedding! Now, there is a contact form that WORKS and I can also check to see if I’ve missed any inquiries. I ask for the information I want, and have certain fields that are required! So nice to be able to contact my clients!

Extra. I have space to make this site personal. I love that. From the Meet Ali section, you can find More About Me. This page is just a simple slideshow of 6 or 7 images that are just fun facts about me. I love the fact that I can get personal in a different section – The Details. This site shares kind words from clients, my starting price point, and a statement of faith – the cornerstone of my business.

I’m still so in love with my website. I’m no longer ashamed to give out my business cards – and I no longer have to have a splash page, encouraging people to choose my blog over my website. I encourage any one who is not satisfied with their site to think about an upgrade. Visit the finances and see if it is a possibility. If not, at least keep a pinterest board of inspiration for the future so when the time comes when you’re able to write the check, you’re ready to get rolling. Consider more custom options – some designers offer REALLY customizable options. I was inspired by SiteHouse, and even used one of those designs for an inspiration piece.

It’s freeing to be able to see your work in a space that represents it so well. And of course, shout out to 315 Design for making this happen! Still SO thankful!