How to build a site where people actually want to buy your shit.
HRVST’s no-bs guide to making your online store stand out and sell.
October 9, 2023 / Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
Your ecommerce site isn’t just a store—it’s your stage, your vibe, your brand’s home base. Whether you’re slinging limited-edition kicks or artisan hot sauce, your online setup can make or break the sale. The world is shopping online like never before, so let’s make sure your site isn’t just another dot on the web—it’s the place to be.
An online store that sells is more than just a product catalog. It’s a curated experience where smart design, intuitive UX, and copy that punches above its weight come together. At HRVST, we’ve built ecommerce sites that don’t just perform—they shine. Ready to make your site unforgettable? Let’s break it down.
1. Design isn’t just a flex—it’s a brand statement
First impressions matter, and your site should feel like an extension of your brand’s personality, showing customers exactly who they’re dealing with. Design isn’t decoration; it’s your digital handshake.
How to nail it:
On-brand everything: Colours, fonts, layouts—it all needs to vibe together.
Be bold, but make sense: Stand out without overwhelming your audience.
Stay consistent: From product pages to your checkout screen, your brand’s look should flow seamlessly.
HRVST take: Great copy doesn’t just talk; it connects. We craft words that cut through the noise, speak to your audience, and drive them to act. Your brand’s voice? Let’s make it unforgettable.
2. Flow first: UX over everything
UX is the VIP of ecommerce. If your site feels clunky or hard to navigate, people will bounce faster than a bad playlist. Keep it simple, seamless, and focused on getting people from browse to buy.
Pro tips:
Keep it obvious: Make navigation intuitive—no scavenger hunts.
Streamline checkout: Reduce steps and make payment options crystal clear.
Guide with intention: Use clear calls-to-action like “Add to Bag” or “Shop Now” that keep the flow moving.
HRVST take: We build sites that work the way your customers shop. No unnecessary steps, no distractions—just smooth sailing to checkout.
3. Visuals that don’t just pop—they sell
Photos aren’t just for show—they’re the deciding factor in most purchases. Great visuals make your products feel real, desirable, and impossible to resist.
How to win the visual game:
High-quality images only: Low-res pics are a no-go.
Show the product in action: Lifestyle shots bring items to life.
Ditch stock photos: They’re impersonal. Invest in images that reflect your brand’s energy.
HRVST take: Your visuals do the talking, and we make sure they say all the right things. From layouts that spotlight your products to design that grabs attention, we’ll make your site feel as sharp as the stuff you’re selling.
4. Be mobile-first, not just mobile-friendly
More than half of your audience is shopping on their phones, so your site needs to feel like it was built with mobile in mind. Shrinking a desktop site down won’t cut it.
Mobile must-haves:
Speed is king: Slow load times lose customers.
Thumb-friendly navigation: Buttons, menus, and links need to be easy to tap.
Optimized visuals: Images should load quickly and stay sharp on smaller screens.
HRVST take: Mobile-first design isn’t an option—it’s the standard. We create ecommerce experiences that feel just as good in your hand as they do on your laptop.
5. Copy that’s made to convert
Words matter. Your copy isn’t just there to fill space—it’s what convinces your audience to take action. Every word should pull its weight, whether it’s on a product page, a blog, or a call-to-action.
What strong copy does:
Knows its audience: Speak your customer’s language to connect instantly.
Keeps it tight: No one’s here for a novel. Say more with less.
Drives action: Strong verbs and clear CTAs inspire clicks without sounding pushy.
HRVST take: We write a copy that gets your customers to feel something—and then take action. Whether it’s playful, polished, or punchy, we make your brand’s voice impossible to ignore.
6. Personalization for the win
In a world of one-size-fits-all, stand out by making your customers feel seen. Personalization turns browsers into buyers by delivering a tailored experience.
Easy ways to personalize:
Show “Recently viewed” items: Keep their favorites top of mind.
Suggest complementary products: “You might also like” isn’t just helpful—it’s strategic.
Celebrate milestones: From birthdays to loyalty rewards, small touches build big loyalty.
HRVST take: Personalization isn’t about fancy tech; it’s about making every shopper feel valued. We’ll help you add those personal touches that keep them coming back.
A strong ecommerce site isn’t just a tool—it’s your brand’s home base, your 24/7 salesperson, and your competitive edge. At HRVST, we design with strategy and heart, turning ideas into sites that connect, convert, and keep customers coming back.
If your brand’s ready to level up, we’re here to make it happen.
From design to development, we’ve got the skills to make your online store a standout in a crowded digital world. Let’s build something that works as hard as you do—reach out today, and let’s get started.