WordPress web designer: what to look for
There are thousands of "WordPress web designers" out there. The problem is that quality varies enormously — from professional freelancers to hobbyists who just installed WordPress for the first time.
Here's what you should specifically look for (and avoid) when choosing a WordPress designer.
5 things to check
1. Portfolio with real sites
Ask for links to live sites — not just screenshots. Open the sites and check:
- Do they load quickly? (Test with PageSpeed Insights)
- Do they look good on mobile?
- Do contact forms and buttons work?
- Is the design consistent and professional?
A designer who can't show live results is a red flag.
2. Understanding of performance
WordPress can be fast or slow — it depends on the designer's technical choices. Ask:
- Which page builder do you use? (Bricks and GeneratePress are fast, heavy page builders like Elementor can be slow)
- How do you handle image optimization?
- Are you familiar with Core Web Vitals?
A designer who doesn't know what Core Web Vitals are is lacking fundamental knowledge.
3. SEO foundation
Your designer doesn't need to be an SEO expert, but should understand the basics:
- Correct heading structure (H1, H2, H3)
- Title tags and meta descriptions
- Alt text on images
- Sitemap and robots.txt
Ask: "What do you do for SEO when building a site?"
4. Clear process
A professional designer has a clear process:
- Briefing — understands your needs and goals
- Wireframe/mockup — shows the structure before coding
- Design — the visual is built up
- Feedback — you provide input and corrections
- Launch — testing, go-live, handover
If the process is "just send me some content and I'll make it" — find someone else.
5. Who owns what?
Clarify BEFORE you start:
- Domain — should always be in your name
- Hosting — you should have access
- WordPress login — you should have admin access
- Source code — you own it (GPL license)
Red flags
- No live portfolio sites
- Doesn't know about page builders or performance
- Wants to host your site themselves (vendor lock-in)
- Can't explain their process
- Prices under 3,000 DKK for a business site
What does a WordPress designer cost?
| Type | Price range | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Hobbyist | 2,000-5,000 DKK | Template with your colors |
| Freelancer | 8,000-25,000 DKK | Custom design with SEO and speed |
| Agency | 25,000-80,000 DKK | Full package with strategy, content and design |
Price alone doesn't say everything — look at what's included and ask for references.
Looking for a WordPress designer?
See my portfolio and contact me for a non-binding conversation about your project.
