Running a successful brand and web design agency requires more than just creativity and passion—it takes the right tools to streamline your workflow, keep your projects on track, and deliver a seamless experience for your clients. Over the years, I’ve tried and tested countless platforms and tools, but there are a few that have truly stood out and become indispensable to my business. Today, I’m excited to share these tools with you, so you can equip your business with the resources it needs to thrive.
Also, this post contains affiliate links. That means I get a small kick-back if you purchase the products linked to below. You can read my privacy policy for more info. Now that’s done- let’s look at my favorite business tools.
1. WordPress Host: Siteground
Need Speed and Security? Siteground’s Got Your Website Covered
When it comes to hosting my website, Siteground is my go-to choice. They offer top-notch security, speed, and reliability, which are non-negotiables for a business like mine that relies heavily on a strong online presence. Siteground’s customer support is also phenomenal—they’ve saved me more than once when technical issues arose. Plus, their easy-to-use interface makes managing my website a breeze.
PS If you have a website on ShowIt, Squarespace, or Shopify– this is not for you!
2. Email Marketing: Kit (formerly ConvertKit)
Reach Your People with Kit In More Ways Than Just Email
Email marketing is at the heart of my communication strategy, and Kit is the tool that makes it all possible. Designed with creators and entrepreneurs in mind, Kit allows me to segment my audience, create automated email sequences, and track performance with ease. It’s powerful, yet user-friendly, making it perfect for anyone looking to grow their email list and engage with their audience effectively.
3. Website Legal Pages: C-Suite Contracts
Get Your Website Protected with Legal Pages Written by an Actual Lawyer
Protecting my business legally is crucial, and the C-Suite Contracts Bundle offers everything I need to keep my website compliant. If you don’t have a Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Disclaiemr on your site- you’re actually putting your business at risk!
This bundle includes customizable templates for privacy policies, terms and conditions, and disclaimers. It’s a must-have for any business owner who wants to ensure their website is fully protected.
PS It’s where I send my clients as well- because it’s their responsibility and I don’t take on that liability.
4. Contracts: C-Suite Contracts and Contracts for Entrepreneurs
Contracts Made Simple, Put In Bundles, and Written by Actual Lawyers
Contracts are the backbone of any business transaction, and I rely on C-Suite Contracts and Contracts for Entrepreneurs for all my contract needs. These shops provide templates that are not only legally sound but also easy to understand and customize. Whether I’m onboarding a new client or entering into a collaboration, these contracts give me peace of mind knowing that every detail is covered.
5. CRM: Dubsado
Supercharge Your Client Management with Dubsado: Scheduling, Proposals, Contracts, Automation, and Invoicing
Dubsado is my secret weapon for managing client relationships. From invoicing and scheduling to proposals and contracts, Dubsado handles it all. This all-in-one CRM tool helps me stay organized and ensures that my clients have a smooth, professional experience from start to finish. Plus, with features like automation and client portals, Dubsado saves me countless hours each week. Click here to explore Dubsado.
6. Client Portals: Notion
Keep Clients in the Loop with Notion’s Personalized Portals
Notion has become an integral part of my client communication process. I use it to create client portals where I can share feedback forms, project timelines, and other important documents. Notion’s flexibility and customizable templates make it easy to tailor each portal to the specific needs of each client, ensuring a personalized experience. Plus, they can give feedback, make comments and quickly review each phase- it’s so much easier than other clunkier systems.
7. Membership Portals: Mighty Networks
The Ultimate Membership Platform is Mighty (and it’s woman-led)
If you’re building a membership site or community, Mighty Networks is the platform you need. I am building in a sandbox now after listening to their new AI integrations at a conference in early 2024. Not only did I get a 1:1 meeting with a support team, but they want to serve community builders in everyway they can- because they know how important that is for impact and connectio.
It’s truly a powerful tool for fostering community and engagement, and the features are designed to support both creators and members alike.
8. MockUps: Moyo Studio
Fellow Designer? Make Your Work Stand Out with these Stunning MockUps
Creating stunning mockups is essential for showcasing my design work, and Moyo Studio provides the highest quality templates I’ve found. Whether I’m presenting a brand concept to a client or sharing a portfolio piece online, Moyo Studio’s mockups elevate the visuals and make a lasting impression.
RESULTS THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
Download our case studies + client experiences to review the impact of our website design and brand strategy services have beyond the stunning deliverables you’ll find in our portfolio.
9. Podcast Recording: Riverside
Record Like a Pro with Riverside, and use their AI feature to repurpose the content.
For recording my podcast, Riverside is my go-to tool. It offers high-quality audio and video recording, making it easy to capture professional-grade content from anywhere. It does require stable internet connections for both you and your guest, but this isn’t too big of an ask in the 2020s. Riverside also allows me to easily export clips ready as reels, ensuring that my podcast episodes easily distributed to social channels.
10. Podcast + Masterclass Scheduling: Calendly
Say Goodbye to Scheduling Hassles with Calendly
Scheduling podcast interviews or one-off events can be a hassle, but Calendly makes it simple. I used them for everything at one point, but now I also use Dubsado’s scheduling tool. However, this tool is just so easy for one time events like a masterclass, or when I want to only open a window of time to record a podcast- (30 days to be exact). This tool allows me to set my availability and let guests choose a time that works for them, eliminating the back-and-forth of scheduling. It’s a small tool that makes a big difference in managing my time effectively.
These tools have been game-changers for my business, and I hope they’ll do the same for you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your operations, the right tools can make all the difference. If you’re interested in any of the tools mentioned above, I encourage you to explore them and see how they can benefit your business. If there was a tool you were looking for that I didn’t mention, let me know and I can share what I use!
