When you launch a new website for your business, it can feel like checking off a major to-do list item—and it is! But here’s something many small business owners don’t realize: your website isn’t a one-and-done project.

So many of us in the horse world are also building businesses—sometimes in completely different industries—and it can feel like there’s never enough time to make things look as polished as we’d like.But here’s the thing: making your business feel more professional doesn’t require a full rebrand or a 10-hour workday. With a few intentional changes, you can elevate how your business shows up online without stretching yourself thin.

Before building your website, make sure you have the essentials in place. From images and copy to goals and branding, here’s what every small business owner needs before launching a site.

When it comes to building a successful website, design is only half the battle. The words on your site—the copy—play a crucial role in turning visitors into customers. But if you're not a writer, crafting compelling website copy can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What should you say? And how do you make sure your message resonates with your audience?

Your favicon, or the small icon that appears in a browser tab next to your website's title, is a tiny yet essential part of your website's branding. A well-designed favicon helps your small business stand out, enhances user experience, and keeps your site looking professional.

For small businesses, being found by local customers online is crucial—and one of the simplest ways to make that happen is by creating a Google Business Profile (GBP). A Google Business Profile lets your business appear in Google Maps and local search results, where potential customers can easily find your contact information, hours, and customer reviews.