Work with me
Have a website you love.
Of the hundreds of websites you have perused in the last few weeks, you can probably name me a favourite one that really stood out, or that you enjoy returning to time and again.
It looks good, reads well, there is no obsolete news. The buttons, links, contact forms and all do exactly what you hope they'd do. You don't have to wonder if it's a scam.
Whatever reasonable question you can think of to ask the site owner, the answer is either already there or easily obtainable.
It's just so easy to use!
Is your website as lovable as your favourite? If not, it's time to change that.
Do you need a new and improved website?
Whether you're looking for a new site, help with updating a clunky site or assistance with just a couple of things—I can work with you to create a website that is simple and effective, at an affordable rate.
I offer kind and personalised help to individuals and small business owners with some or all aspects of getting their websites up and running, with the use of good words and images built on a solid platform, WordPress, and a robust back-end.
If you require extensive e-Commerce solutions or wish to work with a full-service agency then I am not the right fit for you.
My services include:
- Web design (WordPress)
- Creating and editing web content
- Tidying up your website plugins, look and feel, etc.
- Google Business profile set up and maintenance (incl. responding to reviews and feedback on your behalf)
- Web maintenance, backups and analytics
- E-newsletter set up and integration with website
- Video services, e.g. ad or introduction video (Auckland only at this stage)
Other services
Need other help (not website-related) for a creative project which requires a writer's or administrator's touch? See FAQ below.
Let's chat
Send me a message or book in a discovery call with me to find out more.
Please note that I work around the needs of my young family. This doesn't affect my commitment to your project, but it may affect times in which I can take phone calls or attend in-person meetings.
Kind words from clients and previous managers 
Mel has been a superstar, dragging our website out of the ark and making it a much better product to both navigate and look at. Would highly recommend Mel for any website work!
We engaged Fundamental Web* to assist our association with the development of an updated website that was more modern, user friendly and fit for purpose. Mel was very responsive and her fees were fair and reasonable. We are extremely happy with the quality of her work.
I really like her beautiful writing style. Mel is also a self starter and is able to work independently, taking the initiative to look up and research on areas she is not familiar with, organising tasks and information without being asked. She is quite perceptive, and has the ability to “get into my head” to understand the things and concepts I wanted to get across. Resourceful, creative and very talented.
Excellent writing skills, very organised, happy to give anything a go.
She is a lovely, friendly person who relates well to all people. She is very capable, a fast learner and has a good range of skills including writing for website, leaflets, donor updating, she has good on-line skills and has good intuitive marketing skills. Melanie will research well before making decisions.
* Fundamental Web is the name I gave my web design work at the start.
FAQ
Why should I work with you?
I am creative and detailed, efficient and resourceful. Empathetic and culturally aware, from living in a few places and being in an intercultural marriage. My broad work experience reflects my interest in multiple disciplines and ability to wear different hats. No matter your industry I will seek to speak your language and address your priorities.
I am a quick learner with a strong interest in continuous education. I'm always looking for better ways to do things and keeping up with news, tools and changes in the online and self-publishing world. This benefits my clients as I apply my learning in my work.
I have a creative project in mind (not a website). Can you help me?
Chances are, yes! I enjoy turning dreams and visions into reality. Examples of projects I have worked on are: writing and printing educational and fundraising materials for an international charity, ghostwriting a personal book, e-newsletters for a physiotherapy practice and re-launching a night market.
Send me a message or book in for a discovery call and let's chat 🙂
How much do you charge?
I can provide you with an accurate quote after talking to you and determining what you need. For websites and larger projects I generally like to price per project rather than per hour. This means no nasty surprises with the bill on your end.
My web maintenance care plans are priced at two tiers: $80 NZD per month for the standard plan, and $60 NZD per month for the basic plan. See "What does web maintenance entail and why do I need it?" below for more info.
I currently operate as a sole trader so there is no GST charged. You will always be provided with a detailed quote and proposal before committing to working with me.
I need a web host. Do you have any recommendations?
I use HostArmada. You can access good prices for hosting and my favourite thing about them is their efficient and helpful customer service.
I don't live in New Zealand. Can I still work with you?
Yes, thanks to the powers of the internet!
Web design and maintenance FAQ
How long will it take to get my website done?
Your site can be up and running in as quickly as 1 week if you have all your content ready, your site hosting and domain registration are organised, you know your site structure and what you want to place on each page. 3-6 weeks if you need assistance with style, content or a higher level of customisation on your site. These are a guide only, time frames vary depending on the scope of your project.
I just need a one-page website. Can you help me?
Yes I can. Send me a message or book in for a discovery call and let's chat 🙂
What does web maintenance entail and why do I need it?
Your website should constantly be evolving to reflect your growth, availability, work and more. It should be backed up frequently so you are not caught out if something 'breaks' during an update or worse if it gets hacked. Websites which are added to and optimised for speed also perform better in search engine rankings which is vital in today's world.
My web maintenance care plans are billed quarterly with no contracts, initiation or termination fees. Clients receive regular backups and updates to ensure their sites are always in good working order. Standard Plan clients also receive 60 minutes of web updates of their choice, a monthly site report, and access to their own Plausible Analytics dashboard (a GDPR-compliant paid service).
Will I be able to update my own website easily?
Yes. Your site will be built using the Beaver Builder page builder with drag and drop functionality, making it easy for you to do your own updates without needing to know code. Training and/or written documentation can be organised at my current hourly rate.
Can I see examples of your work?
Yes - click here.