Start Here Before You Build Your Salon Website

Building a website can feel exciting… until you’re staring at a blinking cursor wondering what to write, what photos to use, or how to make it all actually look like you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing what you already have, the difference between a site that feels confident and cohesive — and one that feels scattered or half-done — comes down to preparation. If you want to build a website that reflects your brand and supports your business, start here before you build your salon website.

Before you jump into design mode, here are five essential steps every salon owner should take — plus one small to-do for each that you can tackle today. These are the same steps I share inside my free workbook, The 5 Steps to a Confident Website, and the exact prep process I use with every client.

Step 1: Choose Your Brand Colors + Fonts

Why it matters:

Consistent visuals create instant brand recognition and make your site feel more polished and professional.

Today’s To-Do:

Pick a nicer, more unique font + a simple easy-to-read font and 2–3 brand colors. Save them in a doc or note so they’re ready when you are.

Step 2: Prep Your Photos + Logos

Why it matters:

Strong visuals are what make your site look instantly legit — they’re the first thing your visitors notice.

Today’s To-Do:

Create a folder labeled “Website Photos” and drop in at least 10 images you’d want to use — even if they’re not final.

Step 3: Write or Gather Your Content

Why it matters:

Having your words ready ahead of time keeps the design process moving forward and your message clear.

Today’s To-Do:

Open a blank doc and jot down very rough answers to these questions:

• Write a one-sentence summary – What you do and where (e.g., “We specialize in luxury hair extensions in Charlotte, NC”).
• Write a salon description – Describe the vibe, location, what you’re known for, and your mission.
• Gather 2-5 glowing reviews – Copy & paste from texts, DMs or Google.
• Draft a quick a bio about yourself – a few short bullet points about your background, experience, and what makes you unique.

Step 4: Buy Your Domain

Why it matters:

Buying your domain early protects your name and helps you move forward with clarity.

Today’s To-Do:

Search your salon name at a site like GoDaddy or Namecheap — if it’s available, grab it!

Step 5: Decide How You’ll Build

Why it matters:

Knowing whether you’ll use a template or hire a designer gives structure to everything else you’re planning and helps you budget (time and/or money) appropriately for your investment.

Today’s To-Do:

Ask yourself: Do I want to DIY using a professional template, or work with a designer? Make a note of your ideal path.

Want Help Organizing All of This?

If you’re not sure where to begin or how to keep track of it all, don’t worry — I’ve got you. My free workbook, The 5 Steps to a Confident Website, will walk you through everything in more detail and help you feel clear and ready before you dive in.

So if you’re thinking of building or refreshing your salon website soon, start here before you build your salon website — and set yourself up for a design process that actually feels easy.

Inside the guide, you’ll get:

• 5-Step PDF Guide: Comprehensive and easy-to-follow, complete with our recommended tools, links and resources.
• Hold-your-hand Workbook (Google Doc: Take notes and work as you go through each step. Use this completed workbook as your #1 tool as you design your website, or send it to your designer.
• Brand Photoshoot Planner (Google Doc): Editable planner with shot list (+ suggestions), photoshoot & prep, and photographer requests. Send to your photographer & print out to use during your shoot.

Download the free guide here:

Start here before you build your salon website, and you’ll spend a lot less time second-guessing — and a lot more time showing off a site you’re proud of.