I just recently wrapped up a project for a client that is launching a new silk bridal bouquet business. When I took a look at the project, I immediately new we’d be teaming up with Carol and Joe over at Prism Web Media as this type of site was right up their alley. What was uncertain was how I’d go about positioning the site from an online marketing perspective. That is when I decided to check out the competition.
There are certain industries that are notorious for having terrible websites. The wedding industry IS NOT one of those industries. That is why when I got out and started looking at the silk wedding flower sites, I was shocked as they were terrible! Though I don’t have near the eye or experience that web designers like Prism has, I do think like a marketer and am going to share 4 key points to any online product site:
Represent The Experience - If you are selling sporting tickets, make your clients feel like they are in the stands. If you are selling wedding goods or services, have a site that is representative of the event and the emotions. Take a hard look at your site and ask yourself if you are happy? Does it represent you in the industry.
Show Off Your Products – If you are claiming that you have great products, then show them off with high quality pictures that capture the product in context. This is especially true when you are asking someone to trust you since they are buying online and can’t walk into your store to evaluate them in person.
Busy Sites Are Confusing Sites – Each of the sites I looked at in the industry had 25 things taking place on the front page. Sites should be complete providing product information, product catalogues, testimonials, and more. Still, it all doesn’t have to be on the home page. Give your visitor a peaceful experience and get them to your products with ease!
Don’t Chase Away Potentioal Customers – Of the sites I visited, many of them had auto play music and videos as well. Let’s see here. . . .when do brides “to be” shop? While they are at work! If they hit your site and music goes off when they hit your site, they are going to hit the back button as quickly as possible. Don’t do that!
At the end of the day, I am a search and social media guy and do not pretend to be a designer. However, I have a life on the other side of the equation as a consumer. Take a look at your website. Does it do what you want it to? Orangecast site has some short comings. We know it and it is on the priority list. If your industry or competition has poorly designed sites, capitalize on it!
