2025 Is the Year of Websites at Firecracker. In just this first quarter, we've received more website design requests than we did in our entire first year of business. And while we’re beyond excited for this growth and love helping businesses create amazing websites, we can’t help but wonder—why the sudden spike in demand?
Did you know?
While social media has been the hype for a while (and it’s still so important), people are starting to realize that their real first impression isn’t their Instagram grid—it’s their website. If your site is outdated, hard to navigate, or missing key info, you risk losing potential customers before they even give you a chance.
Let’s talk about six common website mistakes that could be hurting your business—and how to fix them.
1. Slow Loading Speeds
How long does it take your website to load? If it's more than 3 seconds, it could be working against you.
Did you know that the loading speed of your site directly impacts your SEO ranking? This means that a long load time may be taking your site further down the list on Google's search results, which is not what we want.
A faster site also creates a better user experience. Thanks to the modern internet, no one has a very long attention span anymore. If they wait around for more than a few seconds for your page to load, they are very dedicated! But most people drawn to your site in the first place wont be this dedicated, and if they can't get the answers they need immediately from your site, they're going to go somewhere else where they can.
How to Fix It
If you’re using Wix (we love Wix!), check your Site Speed Dashboard to see your performance. A quick fix? Optimize your images and videos to reduce file size.
2. Poor Mobile Experience
When's the last time you found a business's website on your laptop by googling? Chances are, you discover most businesses through social media while scrolling on your phone. If you're interested, you check out their website directly through the link they provide in their bio. This is why it is SO important to make sure your site is optimized for mobile users.
As of this year, 64.25% of website traffic comes from mobile devices. If your site isn’t optimized for mobile, over half of your visitors are seeing a clunky, hard-to-read version of your business. That’s not a good look.
How to Fix It
Make sure your site is responsive, meaning it adjusts seamlessly for mobile users. Keep buttons large, text readable, and avoid elements that require pinching or zooming.
3. Confusing Navigation & Layout
There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to find what you need on a website. This month alone, where menu buttons were hidden behind images—for the sake of aesthetics. If I have to guess where your services are listed, I’m not booking you.
How to Fix It
Stick to clear, intuitive navigation. You may feel that the traditional "home, services, contact" menu items are overdone, but it's used for a reason—it works.Users with specific questions don't want to search your whole site for an answer, they want to know exactly where to go to find it. So make it easy for them.
4. Lack of Clear Branding & Messaging
What breaks our hearts the most at Firecracker? Seeing an amazing business with zero brand identity. Branding isn’t just about looking pretty—it builds trust and credibility.
A strong brand identity includes:
Consistent colors & fonts
A clear, recognizable logo
Curated images that match your vibe
Messaging that speaks to your audience
If your branding is all over the place, reach out—we’d love to help get you on track!
5. No SEO Strategy
If you're not in the business of marketing, SEO is probably a term you've heard a million times but you have no idea what it really means. Sure, "search engine optimization" sounds great... but how do I do it?
SEO can get a bit complicated, so lets stick to the basics. I know you can do it! Even the most beautiful, well organized, informative website is absolutley useless if no one can find it. Give yourself a boost and make sure you're incorporating at LEAST these SEO functions to make sure people can find your site.
Meta Descriptions: Your First Impression on Google
Think of a meta description as your website’s mini-ad in search results. It should be engaging, keyword-rich, and under 160 characters.
🚫 Bad Example: "Home | Welcome to Our Flower Shop!"
✅ Better: "Fresh, hand-picked floral arrangements in [Your City]. Same-day delivery available. Order now!"
Headings: Structure Matters
Headings (H1, H2, H3) help search engines and customers navigate your site.
🚫 Bad: No headings or multiple H1s.
✅ Better:
H1 = "Luxury Flower Arrangements for Any Occasion"
H2 = "Our Best-Selling Bouquets"
H3 = "Romantic Roses | Birthday Blooms | Sympathy Flowers"
Keywords: What Are People Searching For?
Your site needs the words people actually search for. Instead of generic terms like “flowers,” get specific:
🚫 Bad: "We sell flowers."
✅ Better: "Same-day peony delivery in [Your City]."
Alt Text for Images: Google Can’t 'See' Your Photos
Search engines rely on alt text to understand images. Describe them in a way that’s helpful!
🚫 Bad: "flower1.jpg"
✅ Better: "Vibrant spring bouquet with tulips, roses, and lilies."
Don't over complicate it! By optimizing meta descriptions, headings, keywords, and alt text, you'll make it easier for customers to find your site.
6. No Trust Signals
81% of consumers say trust is the most important factor in their purchasing decisions.
So how do you get consumers to trust you? Social proof.
Reviews & Testimonials: If people love your business, let the world know!
Case Studies & Portfolios: Show off your work.
Certifications & Awards: Credibility matters.
Put your glowing reviews front and center—don’t hide them on a random “testimonials” page no one clicks on.
Recap
Your website is your real first impression, and if it’s slow, confusing, or lacks key details, you could be losing potential customers before they even get to know you.
Let’s recap the biggest, most common website mistakes to avoid:
Slow Loading Speeds – Optimize your images, check your hosting, and use tools like Wix’s Site Speed Dashboard.
Poor Mobile Experience – Over half of web traffic comes from phones. Make sure your site looks and functions perfectly on mobile.
Confusing Navigation & Layout – Keep menus clear and intuitive. Fancy designs mean nothing if customers can’t find what they need.
Lack of Clear Branding & Messaging – Consistency in colors, fonts, and messaging builds trust and recognition.
No SEO Strategy – Use keywords, headings, meta descriptions, and alt text to help people (and Google) find your site.
No Trust Signals – Highlight reviews and testimonials to show potential customers why they should choose you.
A well-optimized website isn’t just about looking good—it’s about functionality, trust, and visibility. Need help with yours? Reach out to Firecracker Creative—we’d love to get your site in top shape for 2025!
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