whew, that feels better

Published 23 days ago • 1 min read

As a designer, almost nothing feels better than slapping a fresh coat of paint on a website - especially when it's been more than a few years since you've updated the last version.

So I'm pleased as punch to share the all-new updated website for longtime client, friend and fellow dog enthusiast Ann Handley

This site was created the old-school way. Pushing pixels by hand (and getting feedback with change orders accompanied by dog pics at my request).

Two elements I love to play with in my custom work are texture and color - especially the use of gradients.

In this case, I overlaid a half-tone texture on top of a custom-made color-shifting gradient. The dotted pattern is a subtle nod to old-school newspaper print (Ann collects typewriters and is a writer).

And a slightly askew quote bar adds a bit of visual interest above the main heading.

(Fun fact I just discovered: if you google the word "askew" the results page slightly slants to the right.)

The core element we wanted to highlight throughout the site?
Her newsletter sign-up.

Ann writes one of the best newsletters out there. You'll feel smarter every time you open up one of her biweekly Sunday bulletins chock-full of writing tips and useful marketing ideas wrapped in artful storytelling.

Take a gander and get on Ann's list here.

you've got this,
Michelle

p.s. Will you be publishing a book in 2026 or 2027? New services coming soon to support authors launching books, courses and beyond. Currently adding to my interest list and holding spots in the queue.

what's coming up + pick my brain

Minima Sessions: Need a fresh eye on your stuff? Book a Minima Session and get in-the-trenches knowledge and actionable strategies. Perfect for web designers, digital product creators and online business owners. Inquire here.

tech I love

Kit* - my favorite easy-to-use email service (you're reading it right now!)
Kajabi* - where I host my programs and digital courses
ManyChat* - what I use to automate messages on Instagram

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