Working Together

Orientation

Websites are not single deliverables. They are systems that need to be designed, supported, and adjusted over time.

This studio works with small businesses that value clarity, stability, and sites they can live with — not constantly fight.

Design & Build

Some projects begin from scratch. Others begin by untangling what’s already there.

Before design work begins, I map the existing ecosystem — structure, content, workflows, and constraints. This ensures visual decisions are informed by how the site actually needs to function, with starting frameworks adapted to fit the context rather than dictating it.

The result is a site that feels intentional, adaptable, and aligned with the business it supports.

Design & build work may include:

  • new website builds
  • thoughtful redesigns
  • brand identity foundations when needed
  • Scope is shaped by context, not arbitrary page counts.

Interpreted, Not Dropped In

Every site begins with context.

Copy is gathered before design begins so language can shape hierarchy, pacing, and emphasis. Words aren’t poured into layouts after the fact — they inform how the system is built and how attention moves through it.

Starting frameworks are adapted, refined, and reworked as needed. The work is interpretive: structure responds to meaning, visuals support voice, and the final site feels considered rather than installed.

Ongoing Care & Stewardship

Once a site is launched, the ecosystem still needs care.

Regular maintenance keeps the site healthy, secure, and professional. Links work. Forms function. Updates happen before they become emergencies.

This work is best suited to clients who value continuity and calm over last-minute fixes.

Maintenance as Habitat Care

Maintenance is offered in clearly defined tiers, based on the size and complexity of the site.

Maintenance is not an add-on. It’s part of how the ecosystem stays healthy.

Nest — Care & Feeding

Essential coverage for small or straightforward sites.

  • Ongoing security monitoring
  • Twice-monthly update of WordPress plug-ins and themes
  • Twice-monthly complete site backups stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Weekly backups of databases stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Twice-monthly malware scan
  • Site cleanup/management if site is hacked

Den — Protection & Nurturing

Expanded care for growing or multi-page sites.

  • Ongoing security monitoring
  • Twice-monthly update of WordPress plug-ins and themes
  • Twice-monthly complete site backups stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Weekly backups of databases stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Twice-monthly malware scan
  • Site cleanup/management if site is hacked
  • Twice-monthly complete check of site
  • Check links on all main pages (does not include every blog post)
  • One hour each month*** to make changes to site, including adding or revising pages, adding functionality, etc.

Sanctuary — Full Ecosystem Oversight

Comprehensive care for complex or high-demand sites.

  • Ongoing security monitoring
  • Twice-monthly update of WordPress plug-ins and themes
  • Twice-monthly complete site backups stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Weekly backups of databases stored on a secure cloud-based server
  • Twice-monthly malware scan
  • Site cleanup/management if site is hacked
  • Twice-monthly complete check of site
  • Check links on all main pages (does not include every blog post)
  • One hour each month*** to make changes to site, including adding or revising pages, adding functionality, etc.
  • Firewall setup
  • Content delivery network (CDN)setup if needed
  • Monthly speed check/audit
  • Spam management
**Bolhuis Design will create the email addresses and user names, but will not set up the email accounts on the client side (email programs/computers). Bolhuis Design will supply you with the set-up information needed for you or your IT specialist to help you set up your computer.

***Time is dependent on contract and can be from 1/2 hour to 2 hours each month. Unused time does NOT rollover from month to month.

What This Work Is – and Isn’t

This approach is a good fit if you value:

  • systems over shortcuts
  • clarity over novelty
  • steady care over periodic rescue
  • collaboration over control

It may not be a good fit if you’re looking for:

  • one-off fixes without context
  • trend-driven redesigns
  • a site you never plan to touch again

    • Closing

    If you’re curious how this approach looks in practice, the Specimen Catalog shows how these ecosystems behave over time.

    When you’re ready, we can talk.

    FIELD NOTES
    Accessibility Support

    Accessibility can be an important layer of care for a website ecosystem.

    For clients who want a practical, low-maintenance approach, I offer accessiBe, an automated accessibility overlay that operates alongside your existing site.

    accessiBe functions independently of site content and structure, adapting the user experience in real time for visitors who use assistive technologies.

    What I handle:

    • Installation of the accessiBe accessibility overlay
    • Configuration and setup
    • Ongoing management of the service

      • No changes to your site’s content or design are required.

      Accessibility support may be added to an existing site at any time.

      This approach reflects a deliberate choice to offer accessibility support that is practical, affordable, and manageable for small businesses.