All About Stonedam Design
An Upper Valley Website Builder and Social Media Content Creator
Hi! My name is Natalie. I grew up in southern New Hampshire and now operate my business a mile over the Vermont border, near Dartmouth College and Hanover, NH.
I’ve been building websites for over 20 years. In 2023 a non profit organization asked if I’d work with them, so I made things official with an LLC and a business name. When I’m not working on my computer I’m running my other business Artisan Eyewear in Norwich, Vermont! I enjoy gardening, oil painting, weaving and ceramics.
About Stonedam Design: “Stonedam” is the name of the island closest to my grandmother’s home on Lake Winnipesaukee. I like the visual of creating a strong outlet that builds pressure yet controls flow (of sales + online success, in this analogy!).
I’ve been a business owner since 2018, and that’s the something special I bring to the table: I know the reality of being a solopreneur, a cold-start business, the CEO of your own tiny empire. My personal interests in storytelling, photography and design compliment technical skills and business-owner practicality, making me an excellent resource to small businesses and non profits.
Website + Social Media FAQ
Can You Make Our Site in Wix / Squarespace / Not WordPress?
In the past I’ve done this, but going forward I’m only accepting WordPress-based projects.
Can You Also Set Up Our Email? We Want A Business Address.
Sure! If you’re most comfortable using a Gmail interface, we can set it up that way, or for more security consider Proton Mail. Non-profits can qualify for a free Google Workspace for Nonprofits.
We Need New Headshots, Action Photos, Videography. Can You Help?
Depending on your exact needs, I am able to assist or I have a handful of local professionals to recommend. I’m happy to research resources and provide specs to these professionals so we capture exactly what we need.
Will I Fully Own My Website?
Yes! That’s the great thing about Stonedam Design: upon completion, you’ll be sent all your account login information and details. Domain and Hosting will be under your business name. If you’d like your Aunt Mary to manage the site, no problem. Nothing will be tethered to Stonedam Design unless you want us as your webmaster.
What Is the Point of Social Media?
In most industries, potential clients like to research a company before making a purchase. Even if their first ‘touch’ is a word-of-mouth referral, they’re likely to make a visit to your website or a social media platform before showing up in person. They’re looking to see: (1a) are you still in business (1b) are you open the day they might come by (2) what is your business like? The energy, the vibe, the dress code, the energy – can they tell enough about your business to say “my friend X should know about you too”? Depending on your field, they may want to see the owner as well. Do you look nice? Safe? Will they get along with you?
How is Success Measured Re: Social Media?
Likes, follows, comments are all free. It makes us feel warm and fuzzy, but if you have a Business Account what you really want are sales!
Depending on your industry, customers may research you a little or a lot before purchasing. That can involve looking at your Instagram or Facebook account in addition to your website, print and radio ads, Google or Yelp Reviews, and intangibles like what friends and family think. For a new business (or one with a brand-new social media account), it’s going to take more time to gain follower trust.
We recommend (if you aren’t doing this already) asking new customers how they found you and recording the data. Additionally, have a good process in place to convert those who express interest via social media into sales. For established businesses who aren’t making other big marketing changes, the best measurement is your gross sales! Rule of thumb is to measure 3-6 months of consistent social media posting before making the ROI calculation.
What If I’m Not Happy With My Social Media Results?
It’s unlikely you’ll be unhappy with the nature of the content created, as this is a collaborative process that you’ll be asked to sign off on ahead of posting.
I don’t recommend working with me if you have expectations like increasing follower count to 30k, doubling your sales after 2 months, or ‘going viral.’ I won’t make those kinds of promises. If you aren’t already convinced that regular, quality posts on Instagram and/or Facebook are a need for your business, I would recommend DIY’ing your content.
If you’re interested in talking to a past or current client about Stonedam Design just let me know and I’ll arrange a phone call.