If you’ve ever tried to design your own website, you probably realized pretty quickly that it’s hard to make it stand out. You can try all of the different layouts in the world and still end up with a site that looks like everyone else’s. But then you’ll come across someone else’s site that looks completely unique – almost like it has its own personality. No matter what you do, you just can’t figure out what it is that’s making such a difference. Well today, I’m going to let you in on a designer’s secret. I’m going to give you 3 design elements that you can use to help your website stand out.
Designing a website can be a daunting task. Giving it a unique look and feel is even more challenging. You’ve probably tried various layouts and templates, but still find yourself struggling to make your site stand out in a sea of equestrian business websites that all look the same. You know that it’s possible to create a custom site that is truly eye catching (because you’ve seen them), but you have no idea how to do it for yourself. Well, I’m excited to share with you a few tips and tricks that can help your website shine and stand out in the crowd. As a designer, I’m here to let you in on a little secret – there are three key design elements that can take your website from ordinary to extraordinary.
Custom Illustrations
A great way to make your website unique and memorable is by adding custom illustrations throughout. These illustrations should reflect your brand and what it represents. For instance, if you’re an equestrian bodyworker, you might consider including drawings of hands, muscles, or even a horse being treated. Keeping the illustrations simple and easy to use across your site is a great strategy.
Another cool way to use custom illustrations is to replace the standard icons on your site. For example, you could swap out the standard cart icon on your online store with a custom design that matches your brand. Similarly, using custom social media icons instead of generic ones can also make a big difference. Paying attention to small details like these can greatly enhance the overall look and feel of your website.
Unique Textures
Sprinkling in different colors throughout your site is definitely helpful from a visual aspect – but color won’t also give a website the depth that it needs. That’s where textures come in. You can use textures behind sections as background images, or as a background on a button – you can even use them as “frames” to place behind your images. If you don’t have the ability to source your own custom textures, you can easily find free stock versions on one of the many free stock photo websites. There are also paid options that can enhance your site even more.
When you’re choosing textures, make sure they blend well with the overall aesthetic and color palette of your branding. Keeping everything consistent is a sure way to elevate the overall experience of your website.
Professional Photography
I know this may seem like an obvious point – but a lot of people don’t realize how important great photography is to a website. In fact, great, custom photos can truly be the difference between a boring website and an excellent one. It may not be possible to invest in photos if you’re just starting, but it should certainly be a priority for you.
If you just can’t afford professional photos in the beginning, it’s okay to use stock images. When you’re sourcing your images, try to find ones that don’t look cheesy. It’s also important to make sure that the photos you’re using aren’t so popular that it’s going to be a dead giveaway that you’re using stock. It’s also important to source photos that have a similar look and feel. As with the textures, consistent photos will also have a huge hand in making your site look and feel custom and professional.
Help Your Website Stand Out
Using the elements listed above will certainly help you take your website from drab to fabulous – without too much work. Focus on customizing the small details. You’ll be impressed with what a difference it makes.
If you decide to utilize any of these elements to help your website stand out, be sure to take a before and after screenshot and share it with me. I love seeing sites come together, and accurately reflect the business they represent. And if you need help creating a stunning website that matches your personality, get in touch with me to learn more about available design packages.
