Start with the purpose
Before choosing colours or page layouts, write one sentence that explains what your website needs to achieve. You might want enquiries for a service, a place to share your work, or a shop where visitors can explore a product range.
Then describe the people who will use it. What information do they need, and what should they do after reading it? These answers help shape the navigation and the order of your content.
List the essential pages
For a service business, a useful starting list is Home, Services, About and Contact. Add a Portfolio page if you have work to show and a Blog if you plan to publish articles. Each page should have a purpose and a next step.
Explain your references
Two or three reference sites can be helpful when you explain what you like: the spacing, the menu, the image presentation or the overall tone. A reference is a way to communicate a preference, not a request to copy another business.
Gather your content
Prepare your logo, approved text, images you have permission to use, service details and contact information. Make a note of missing items so content writing or photography can be included in the plan if necessary.
Separate essential features from later ideas
Mark each feature as needed for launch or suitable for a later phase. Booking, payments, accounts and external integrations can change the amount of work significantly, so name them early.
Agree the details in writing
Before development begins, confirm the deliverables, responsibilities, timeline, revision rounds and any third-party costs. A clear brief gives both sides something concrete to review.