Squarespace Template or Custom Website Design? What To Choose (And When)
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Reframing the website design Question
Let’s skip the design snobbery and get real: the question isn’t “Which is better—custom or template?”
The question is: What do I actually need right now based on my business, budget, and goals?
Because while a custom website design can be stunning and powerful, it’s not automatically the “right” move for everyone. And website templates? When done strategically, they can be a smart, flexible, and results-driven foundation. Especially if you’re in a season of building momentum, not polishing perfection.
This post breaks it down so you can make a decision rooted in clarity, not comparison.
The Case for Website Templates (Especially Strategic Ones)
ou might think templates are the fallback option. But in reality, they’re often the most aligned choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs who are moving fast, pivoting confidently, or launching something new.
Here’s when a Squarespace template makes sense:
YOU’RE EVOLVING
Maybe you’re pivoting your offer, still refining your niche, or figuring out how to talk to your audience. A strategic template gives you structure to show up clearly, without waiting for every piece to be “done.”
YOU NEED TO MOVE FAST
Templates let you skip the 3–6 month design timeline. With a solid foundation, you can launch a polished, professional site in weeks.
YOU WANT A PROFESSIONAL LOOK, WITHOUT A PREMIUM PRICE TAG
Custom sites often run $8k–$15k+. A template gives you the high-end feel without the high-end invoice.
YOU DON’T WANT TO RELY ON A DEVELOPER
Templates (especially ours and especially Squarespace) are built for ease. You can update, edit, and evolve your site yourself—no tech headaches, no ongoing retainer.
YOU STILL WANT STRATEGY BAKED IN
This is key. The templates we create aren’t just pretty layouts. They include guided copy prompts, intentional user flow, funnel-friendly sections, and pages built to convert—so you’re not just designing a site, you’re building a smart system for your business.
The Case for Custom Website Design
That said, there is a time when investing in custom makes total sense.
Go custom when:
YOU’VE GOT A STRONG FOUNDATION
If your brand strategy is clear, your messaging is dialed in, and your offers are proven—custom can help you take everything to the next level.
YOU NEED SOMETHING COMPLEX OR HIGHLY SPECIALIZED
Maybe you need advanced integrations, unique functionality, or something that a template just isn’t built to handle. That’s where a custom build shines.
YOU’RE READY FOR A VISUAL IDENTITY THAT’S DEEPLY UNIQUE
Custom is great for brands with a well-developed visual system who are ready to invest in art direction, creative development, and intentional collaboration.
It’s not about “deserving” a custom site. It’s about being ready for one.
What to consider when choosing whether a custom website design or template is right for you.
Still unsure? Run through this quick decision filter:
STILL REFINING YOUR NICHE OR MESSAGING?
Go with a strategic template. It gives you structure and flexibility while your brand evolves.
NEED TO LAUNCH IN THE NEXT 1-2 MONTHS?
Choose a template. You’ll move faster and avoid long custom timelines.WORKING WITH A $2-5K BUDGET?
A template gives you a premium look without the custom price tag—and frees up funds for copy, photography, or marketing.WANT TO MAKE UPDATES YOURSELF, WITHOUT A DEVELOPER?
Templates—especially on Squarespace—are built for ease and ownership.HAVE A CLEAR, ESTABLISHED BRAND AND PROVEN OFFER?
You might be ready for a custom build, especially if you’re looking to level-up your digital presence.NEED COMPLEX FEATURES OR ADVANCED INTEGRATIONS?
That’s where custom design makes more sense.
A Hybrid Website Design Option? Totally.
Templates and custom design aren’t enemies—they can be part of the same journey.
Start with a strategic Squarespace template, get clear on your messaging and content, and add personalized brand elements or light customization as you grow. Later, if and when you’re ready for a full custom experience, you’ll already know what works—and what your audience responds to.
Think of a template not as a compromise, but as a stepping stone that gives you the clarity and confidence to grow into custom (if that even becomes necessary).
Final Takeaway: Strategy > Status
You don’t need the flashiest site. You need the right-fit solution for your season.
Whether that’s a beautifully built, conversion-ready Squarespace template or a fully custom experience, choose what supports your message, your momentum, and your mindset right now.
Because the best websites aren’t the most custom.
They’re the most clear, aligned, and strategic.
Not sure what’s right for you?
→ Explore the Squarespace Template Shop. See how strategic a template can really be.
→ Why Website Templates Are a Smart Move (Not a Step Down) Mindset shift, incoming.
→ What to Write on Every Page of Your Website (Before You Design)
ChatGPT Prompts for Writing Your Website Copy (Page by Page) Get your message clear before you even open your site builder.
Need more immediate help? Book a website audit
Meet Sarah
Sarah is an award-winning Designer, Creative Director & Brand Strategist for global companies turned entrepreneur. She’s passionate about empowering entrepreneurs & small business owners with tools and services that transform the way they build their brands and businesses.