With just 41 days until 2025, it seems like many of us are already in full holiday mode—prepping for year-end business transitions and getting ready to decorate our Christmas trees (though maybe that’s just me ?). For some, it’s all about tradition—reusing the same ornaments every year. Others are looking forward to changing things up entirely with new ornaments to give the tree a fresh look. But there’s also a third type—the minimalist. They might not decorate the tree at all, opting to skip the process altogether.
Believe it or not, this third group can teach us something about websites. I plan on breaking it all down for you and will explore the pros and cons of each approach—redesigning your website, updating it, and yes, skipping it entirely.
Did you know? “48% of businesses plan to refresh their website design in the upcoming year to stay current with design trends and evolving customer expectations.”
1. Audit Your Website: Time for the Year-End Checkup
A website audit at the end of the year allows you to reflect on how your site has grown (or perhaps stagnated) and determine what changes might be needed to keep it fresh for the next year.
Did you know? “75% of businesses conduct a website audit at least once a year to ensure optimal performance, identify broken links, improve SEO, and stay aligned with changing user needs.”
Tip: Review Your Analytics
Start by reviewing your website’s analytics and ask yourself the following questions:
- How have your visitors interacted with your site this year?
- Which pages are getting the most traffic, and which ones are not?
- Are certain buttons getting more clicks?
- Are some products or services being highlighted more than others?
This data will give you insight into what’s working and what might need a little “revamping.”
2. Add New Ornaments: Update Your Content and Visuals
Now, let’s talk ornaments! Just as you add a new ornament to your tree to celebrate your latest memories, you should update your website with fresh content to show your audience your growth and success. Maybe you’ve had some exciting new projects this year—why not add them to your site? Adding testimonials from happy clients or highlighting new case studies or projects can give your site a fresh and updated look.
Tip: Update Testimonials and Portfolio
If you’ve had new projects, ask clients for testimonials or feedback. Adding these to your homepage or portfolio not only shows off your recent work but also builds social proof that can help convert potential clients.
3. Check for Broken Ornaments: Fix What’s Not Working
It’s bound to happen: you put your ornaments away, pull them out the next year, and notice that one didn’t make it—now it’s cracked. You can either try to fix it or its time to toss it and buy another one! The same applies to your website—if there’s broken functionality, outdated links, or pages that no longer serve a purpose, it’s time to let go and replace them.
Tip: Evaluate and Fix Broken Links and Pages on desktop and mobile
Use tools like Google Search Console or a website crawler to check for broken links.
4. Freshen Up Your Design: Don’t Be Afraid of a New Look
Much like how the tree’s overall look evolves each year with new ornaments and decorations, your website might benefit from a little redesign. Whether it’s updating the color scheme, refreshing the typography, or optimizing the layout for better user experience—giving your website a makeover will keep it looking modern and functional.
Tip: Simple Redesigns Go a Long Way
Don’t be afraid to change things up a little. Even small tweaks, like a new hero image or a better arrangement of content, can make a huge difference in the user experience. But remember, don’t do it just for the sake of change—first check your analytics to see the current user journey. So you don’t accidentally break something that is working!
5. Prepare for Next Year: Plan Ahead
Set concrete, measurable goals for your website’s growth and functionality over the next year. Then, work backward to break those goals down into actionable steps you can take now.
Tip: Set Goals for Your Website in the New Year
Ask yourself these questions:
- What do you want your website to achieve next year?
- Do you want to increase conversions?
- Add a blog to share thought leadership?
- Focus on SEO and organic traffic?
The Website “Minimalist” Approach:
Now, let’s talk about that third group—the “minimalists” who choose not to decorate the tree and opt out of all holiday decor entirely. In the digital world, this translates to businesses or individuals who rely solely on social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn for their digital footprint and skip having their own website altogether.
While this approach may seem easier and more convenient, it comes with both benefits and risks. Here’s how it stacks up:
Pros of Relying on Social Platforms:
- Lower Cost and Maintenance
- Built-in Audience
- Instant Updates and Easy Sharing
Cons of Relying on Social Platforms:
- Less Control Over Branding – While social platforms offer an audience, you’re playing by their rules. You have limited control over the design and layout of your page compared to your website. Social platforms can change their algorithms, user interface, or terms of service at any time, which could impact your online presence.
- Limited Functionality – A social media profile can’t fully replicate the features of a website, such as detailed product pages, full blogs, integrated e-commerce, or professional portfolio layouts. You’re essentially using a “one-size-fits-all” platform, which can limit your brand’s full potential.
- Not as Professional – While social platforms are great for personal branding and staying connected, a website gives you a more professional, polished online presence. If you’re serious about your business or brand, a well-designed website sets you apart and builds trust with your audience.
- No Ownership or Long-Term Control – On social media, you’re subject to the whims of the platform’s algorithm and terms of service. If something happens to your account or if the platform experiences downtime, your online presence can be compromised (who remembers when LinkedIn went down in March this year? I do!). With your own website (specifically referring to WordPress), you have full control over the content and functionality, plus the benefit of owning your domain and data.
To Sum it up
Now’s the perfect time to assess, reflect, and refresh —whether it’s your website or your tree. ?
Sending warm latte cheers and heartfelt best wishes as we navigate the end-of-year hustle! More importantly, I’m wishing you and your family a wonderful and joyful Thanksgiving! ??
Leaving you with a latte recipe filled with holiday cheer:
Homemade Gingerbread Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup espresso or strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons of gingerbread simple syrup store-bought or home made
- Whipped cream optional
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Meanwhile, make the espresso and pour it along with the gingerbread simple syrup into a large mug.
- When the milk steams and bubbles start to form, turn off the heat. Whisk until frothy. Pour over the espresso and gingerbread simple syrup. Gently stir to combine. If desired, top with whipped cream. Enjoy!
