For startups and small businesses, the idea of using a website template is often tempting. It's quick, it's cheap, and with enough scrolling, you’ll probably find something that “does the job.”
But is that job actually done — or just done for now?
As someone who’s built for both early-stage startups and big brands, I can tell you there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. So let’s break it down.
🟡 When a Template Might Work
Templates can be a smart starting point if you:
- Just need something live quickly (event, test, or MVP)
- Have very minimal content and no brand yet
- Don’t have budget for custom work, but need a web presence
- Know how to make light edits in Webflow, Squarespace, or Wix
They’re a solid step up from no site at all. You’ll at least exist online — and that matters.
🔴 When a Template Holds You Back
Templates tend to fall short when:
- Your business is growing and needs to stand out
- You have a unique message, audience, or process
- You’re investing in SEO or content long-term
- You want a professional, scalable brand experience
- You’re tired of trying to DIY and need expert input
Templates often come bloated with unused code, generic layout blocks, and design decisions that don’t suit your brand or goals. They look good in the demo — but often frustrate in real-world use.
✅ What a Designer Brings to the Table
A good designer won’t just make something look nice. They’ll:
- Create a structure that matches your content
- Guide your messaging, layout, and flow
- Optimise for speed, SEO, and mobile from day one
- Think long-term — scalability, CMS, integrations, post-launch support
- Save you time, stress, and backtracking down the line
At Two Bears, I build every project to match your goals — not someone else’s pre-built layout.
Final Word
Templates are great for momentum. But when your business is ready to move past “just getting online,” a bespoke site makes the difference between looking active and actually converting.
Not sure where you fall?
