At the risk of sounding too much like an episode of Myth Busters here, today I’m breaking a common misconception about websites (specifically, copywriting and graphic design for websites). Always wondered which comes first – copy or design? I’ve got your answer!

Copywriting and Graphic Design – Which Should You Do First? 

The short answer 

Website copywriting should always come before web design.  

The long answer (aka the reasons why):

#1 –  Your Web Copy Dictates the Design of Your Website 

Your copy should be as long as it needs to be in order to get your message across. Not how much fits into a specifically-sized box on your website builder. You do.not.want to run out of room to say what you need to say!

#2 – Web Copy Determines the Hierarchy of Your Website 

Copy is what determines the hierarchy of your website and where visitors go next. It strategically moves visitors through your website getting them to the ultimate goal…to inquire with you!

#3 – Your Copy is What Converts 

Great visual design attracts people to your site, but the copy is what converts them to buyers. So invest in it first – whether that’s investing your time as a DIYer or investing your money in hiring a professional copywriter, you’ll want to prioritize this over diving into the design right away.

[Writing some website copy? You might also like this post – 3 Copywriting Mistakes to Avoid]

Copywriter for Creatives 

A great website strategy includes both copywriting and design. It’s really important to know the proper order of which should come first in the process though, because otherwise you’ll be pulling your hair out! You don’t want to invest in expensive (but so worth it) web design, only to realize that you are restricted in what messaging you can include because the design is already done.

So don’t design your website without writing your copy first. And if you’re struggling with that, I can help! I offer several different levels of website copywriting options, so no matter your budget we can find a way to get you quality and results-driven copy for your site.