Why website designers really need your copy (and how to write it without crying)
Picture this: You’ve hired a brilliant website designer. They’re like the Michelangelo of Squarespace, ready to sculpt your online masterpiece. The colors are popping, the layout is sharp, and your images could make a stock photographer weep with joy. But wait… what’s this? There’s placeholder text everywhere.
“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet” isn’t exactly telling your story, is it? Unless you’re targeting ancient Romans, it’s time to provide some actual website copy.
Let’s get into why your designer really needs your words and how to write them in a way that won’t leave you rocking back and forth in despair.
Why your designer needs copy upfront
1. Copy dictates design
Designers don’t just slap text boxes around willy-nilly. Your copy (that’s the words, my friend) is like the blueprint. It determines how much space a section needs, how the text flows, and where calls to action (CTAs) should live. If you hand over copy after the design is done, you’re basically asking your designer to stuff an elephant into a Mini Cooper. Nobody wins.
2. It speeds up the process
Ever heard of the phrase “pulling teeth”? That’s how your designer feels waiting for copy. Without it, timelines stretch, revisions pile up, and your website launch starts looking like a 2025 project. Give your designer copy upfront, and they’ll love you forever (or at least send you polite emails).
3. It avoids generic fluff
If you don’t provide copy, designers are forced to use placeholder text or their best guess. While “We provide solutions for your needs” sounds fancy, it’s as meaningful as a motivational poster. You have a unique voice, audience, and message – own it.
Helpful hints to write website copy that doesn’t suck
Writing website copy can feel like trying to fold a fitted sheet: confusing, frustrating, and something you’d rather avoid entirely. But it doesn’t have to be! Here’s how to nail it without losing your sanity:
1. Start with your audience
Ask yourself:
Who is visiting your site?
What problems are they trying to solve?
How do you want them to feel after reading your copy?
Write as though you’re speaking directly to your ideal customer. If your tone is professional-yet-playful (like this blog), don’t suddenly start talking like you’re pitching insurance policies from 1992.
2. Keep it short and sweet
Nobody has time for a novel. Website visitors scan – they don’t read War and Peace. Keep paragraphs short and cut any word that doesn’t earn its keep.
Here’s an example:
Bad: “Here at Dave’s Dog Grooming Emporium, we take great pride in ensuring that your beloved canine companions are bathed, brushed, and groomed with the utmost care, precision, and tender loving attention. Our mission is to serve the dog community with integrity and…” (You stopped reading, didn’t you?)
Better: “Fluffy deserves the best. At Dave’s Dog Grooming, we’ll have your pup bathed, brushed, and looking fresh in no time. No stress. No tangles. Just wagging tails.”
3. Include the essentials
Your website copy must answer these three questions:
What do you do?
Why should I care?
What should I do next?
That’s your value proposition, your unique selling point (USP), and your CTA. Missing these is like forgetting pants before leaving the house.
4. Don’t stuff your website with too much info
There’s a temptation to say everything about your business. Resist it. Website copy should be clear, concise, and focused. Think of it like a movie trailer: intriguing enough to pull people in but not the entire plot.
Focus on key benefits, not just features.
Break up heavy text with headings, images, or icons.
Leave the deep dive for your blog or downloadable guides.
5. Sprinkle in personality
Unless your brand is as serious as a tax audit, don’t be afraid to inject personality. This doesn’t mean turning your About page into a stand-up routine, but a little wit, warmth, or wordplay goes a long way.
Things to include (and avoid) when writing copy
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to keep your copy on track:
DO Include:
A clear headline that tells visitors what you do in 10 words or less.
CTAs (like “Book a Call” or “Shop Now”) on every page.
Social proof: testimonials, reviews, or impressive stats.
Benefits, not just features (e.g., “Save time” instead of “24/7 support”).
DON’T Include:
Jargon nobody understands (“synergy-driven vertical solutions”? Stop it).
Endless paragraphs of text.
Vague promises or buzzwords that say nothing.
Generic CTAs like “Learn More” without context.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Your website designer needs your copy upfront because words shape design. When writing, focus on your audience, keep it concise, and don’t be afraid to let your brand personality shine. Include what matters, ditch the fluff, and make sure every page tells visitors exactly what to do next.
And if all else fails? Hire a professional copywriter - we have one on our team who you can hire! They live for this stuff. Your designer – and your website visitors – will thank you.
