Getting a website

The past week has been a flurry of emails back and forth between myself and Moonglade Designs. The amazingly wonderful M.L. is building me a website. I can't wait to show everyone what an awesome job she's done!

But it did bring a few things to light for me. Things that I hadn't considered before I went down this road. I didn't know the first thing about a web host and what they do. And that there are lots of people who can build a functional site, but will the visual appeal be what I want it to be. Present the image I want as an author.

I wanted a professional sleek look. I've been fortunate enough to see some really excellent websites from members of the various writers groups I belong to. This was my gauge. I wanted mine to be on that caliber.

My advice if you don't have a site and want to get one, is do your research. Get examples of sites you like. Then, go out and get at least three quotes from professionals. If you have family and friends offer to do the site for you, let them know that this is a business - your business. You want to have the best site possible, with the best image. If they don't have the skills to do that, don't feel bad saying "no thank you".

Once you've made your decision, don't second guess yourself. In the end you'll be happier.