If you have some question, got lost in technical stuff, don’t know where to start without committing to a full project – then a one time consultation may be helpful to you. If within one month of the first consultation you choose to continue with an design consulation or a monthly-based consultation, the initial consultation fee will be reduced from the prices of the continued service.
A Sandbox Website is an installation of WordPress in which you can play around (more information here), get acquainted with WordPress and see how it feels to have your own website. If you are not sure if you are ready for a website this may help you decide. The price includes an installation of WordPress, one consultation and one month of Sanbox hosting (see below for extended sandbox monthly hosting). The installation includes the default WordPress “Twenty Ten” theme which enables you to change the design of the blog by choosing a custom header and background. The price does not include any design services.
During the first phase of our work together I will ask you to share with me your vision, wishes and motivations for creating a website. I will relate to that, I may raise some questions for you to consider. Together we will formulate and communicate a vision for the first iteration of your website. I will probably begin to share with you some of my knowledge and understanding of WordPress as it pertains to you and some technical things you need to start considering as we approach building your website.
We will create a clean, simple and usable theme that communicates you and your purpose. Sometimes this is a quick process with satisfying results. Sometimes it takes a few back and forth communications for it to appear. Sometimes it leads to a compromise. A first theme is a starting point – it should be inspiring for you to write and inviting for others to read.
It is my hope that our work together will truly set you on a path of independent exploration. On this path it you will encounter inspiration & challenges. I am happy and able to be there for you to listen, debate and provide guidance where possible.
You will need a place to host your website. You are welcome to host your website with me. The price indicates is a starting price and should cover your needs for some time. When your websites starts receiving higher traffic we will decide what to do.
WordPress, like a car that runs, needs to be maintained. Typically there are 2 or 3 new major versions a year. It is highly recommended to keep your WordPress installation up to date. A basic upgrade includes installation of the latest version of WordPress and active plugins.
I can help you move your website from it’s current hosting service to a new one. You may first want to check with your new hosting provider if they are willing to do this for you free of charge.
Sometimes the process of exploration takes longer then expected. You are welcome to keep working on your stage installation for as long as you like. Though you may be on your own, your presence remains close to me and is reflected in this pricing. Hopefully this will be an incentive for you to move forward and launch your website.
Services
Attention
The most valuable thing I have and can offer you is my caring attention. I am always in a process of evaluating and balancing the places where I place it. A limited part of my attention is allocated to Dharma Online and a limited part of that will be allocated to you. It’s not something I can quantify but definitely something I feel.
From the moment we begin to work together you occupy a space in my attention. This comes to an end when your site is launched and you are free to to use it. Then I will set you gently aside until something brings us together again. The services I offer and my approach to pricing are based on this.
Pricing
The prices I have listed are based on a typical early-stage website building. I have listed them to give you an indication of where I stand. Prices may be higher or lower depending on what you need. I occassionally do pro bono (free of charge) work when my energy allows it and I am inspired to do so.
Typical Project
A typical project that includes initial consulting, theme design and implementation that are completed in one month will cost $1600. If it streteches out over 3 months of work it will cost $2600.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Start by reading “Are You Ready for a Website?” and then consider either a one-time consultation or a Sandbox Website (which includes one consultation).