Here is the video to accompany this lesson.  I hope it is useful.

Creating a website is exciting, but making it look exactly how you want can feel a little overwhelming—especially if you’re just starting out.

The good news? It’s easier than you think! In this guide, I’ll walk you through choosing the right theme, customising your layout, and creating a strong brand identity that makes your website stand out. And don’t worry—I’ll keep everything simple and beginner-friendly.

A theme controls the look and feel of your website, including the layout, fonts, colours, and overall design. Most website builders, like WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace, offer a variety of pre-made themes to choose from.

Quick tip: If you’re using WordPress, free themes are a great starting point, but premium themes often give you more flexibility and advanced features.  This website, getonlinestepbystep.com uses Divi from Elegant Themes.  I use this for all my websites but it is a premium theme.

Want to explore themes? Check out the WordPress Theme Directory or browse Wix and Squarespace for built-in options.

Your layout is how everything on your site is arranged—where your text, images, and menus appear on each page. A well-structured layout makes it easier for visitors to find what they need.

How to customise your layout:

Use a drag-and-drop builder – Most website platforms have this feature, so you can move elements around without coding, like this one!

Think about user experience (UX) – Place important info at the top so visitors don’t have to scroll to find it.

Keep it consistent – Stick to the same structure across pages so visitors don’t get lost.

Less is more – Avoid clutter. A clean, well-organised page looks more professional and is easier to read.

Quick tip: Take a look at other websites you love. What do you like about their layout? Use that as inspiration for your own site!

Branding makes your website feel unique, professional, and memorable. Even if you’re just starting out, a consistent look and feel builds trust with your visitors.

Key branding elements:

• Colours – Stick to 2–3 colours that reflect your brand. 
• Fonts – Choose 1–2 easy-to-read fonts and use them consistently across your site.
• Images – Use high-quality images that match your website’s purpose.
• Logo & Name – If you have a logo, place it in the top corner of your site. – Stick to 2–3 colours that reflect your brand.  Fonts – Choose 1–2 easy-to-read fonts and use them consistently across your site. Images – Use high-quality images that match your website’s purpose. 

Quick tip: Canva is a great free tool for designing branding elements like logos, banners, and colour palettes—even if you’re not a designer!

Want inspiration? Look at brands you admire. What colours and styles do they use? How do they present themselves?

Can I change my theme later?

Yes! Most platforms let you switch themes, but some customisations might not transfer, so always preview before making changes.

Do I need a paid theme to look professional?

Not at all! Free themes can look amazing with the right branding and layout tweaks.

What if I mess up?

Most website builders have an undo button or a revision history, so don’t worry—experimenting is part of the process!

Choosing a theme, customising your layout, and creating a brand identity are key steps in making your website look professional and unique. Take your time, try different styles, and most importantly—enjoy the process!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.