The Journal
Strategy & thoughts from a TA-turned-designer on websites, fees, and the business foundations for independent travel advisors.
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featured posts
featured posts
Five Reasons Your Travel Client Talked Herself Out of Contacting You
If clients land on your travel advisor site and leave without reaching out, it's almost never about design. It's the questions your copy didn't answer.
How to Choose a Website Platform as a Travel Advisor (Without Losing Your Mind)
A real comparison of every website option a travel advisor is likely to run into, from travel-specific platforms like Travefy and Truevail to general builders like Squarespace, Showit, and WordPress, plus the quick-fix options like Canva and Carrd. We'll cover what each one actually costs (USD and approximate CAD), what you own versus what you're renting, SEO, ease of use, and how to figure out what makes sense for where you are right now.
Do Travel Advisors Need a Website? Probably, Yes.
For the advisor who's been putting off the website decision, or who isn't sure the investment is worth it when referrals and social media are already working. We'll cover what a website actually does that Instagram can't, what your potential clients are doing before they ever talk to you, and the different ways to get started without losing your mind.
Blogging on Squarespace: What You Need to Know Before You Start
Adding a blog to your Squarespace site isn’t about pumping out content or chasing what’s hot. It’s about creating a purposeful space that works for your business; attracting aligned clients, building trust before the first call, and showing how you actually think about your work.
Squarespace Discount Codes & Ways to Save on Your Website in 2026
Save money on your Squarespace website billing plan including email marketing, courses, digital products, scheduling and more with the latest Squarespace discounts. As always, use code BIRCH10 at checkout to save 10% on your Squarespace website billing!
The Best Squarespace Templates for Modern Travel Advisors & Service Providers
Building a website that truly reflects your travel brand doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch or hiring a designer right away. If you’re a travel advisor or agency ready to DIY your site, choosing the right Squarespace template can make all the difference. Dive in to find my favourite template shops & enjoy some savings!
Ditch Your Hosted Travel Website & Level up With a Personalized Design
As someone who pours so much care and attention into your work, you deserve a travel advisor website that truly reflects your unique approach to travel planning. If you’re still using the standard site your host agency provides, you might be missing out on an opportunity to connect more deeply with your clients.
6 Design Elements Your Website Needs To Boost Conversion
When I audit websites, I notice the same gaps over and over —elements that could be turning curious visitors into loyal clients. In this post, I’ll walk through six essentials inspired by the StoryBrand framework, showing how clear messaging and customer-focused design can transform your site’s experience and conversion.
Boost Your Squarespace Blog Traffic With These 5 Must-Have Strategies
In this multi-part post, I cover some key strategies to implement in Squarespace and throughout your blog to enhance the chances of actually getting your thoughts and knowledge found on the interweb.
How to Write Clickworthy Title Tags and Meta Descriptions in Squarespace
SEO, Metadata, Page Titles…it can all be overwhelming. Below, I break down the basics of metadata, uncover the secrets of SEO title tags, and discover how to write engaging meta descriptions that drive clicks - and where to add these details on Squarespace.
How to Use Google Search Console To Check for Missing Website Pages and Get Found Online
Getting found in Google search results is becoming harder than ever. I share a few easy steps using Google Search Console each time you update a website or add new content to amplify your chances of getting seen.
Your Essential Guide on Website Requirements to Keep Your ‘ish Legal
In today's digital world, understanding legal requirements isn't just about the rules - it's a foundation for trust and professionalism. Consider this your guide to the website legal essentials.
How to Write Alt Text for Accessibility in Squarespace
Alt text on Squarespace is like having a friendly guide to explain each piece of your website puzzle. It's short for 'alternative text,' and it's a game-changer for people using screen readers or those with visual impairments. When your website images have alt text, these tools can tell them what's going on, completing the online experience for everyone.
5 Key Points to Consider Before Investing in a Website Design Project
Before investing in web design, there are some important pieces of business information that you want to consider to maximize the return on your investment and ensure that your website is built with strategy and intention.
Elements of a Successful & Strategic Homepage Design
Most visitors won’t stick around. Less than a minute on a page, a quick skim of your words, and gone if your value isn’t clear in 10 seconds or less. Ready to turn that traffic into paying clients? Your homepage might need a rethink. Here’s where to start…
6 Must Have’s on Your Travel Advisor Website
In a sea of Travel Advisors all offering the same services, a custom website that truly reflects you can set you apart. Attract the clients you actually want, show your value, establish your expertise, and streamline your process; all while building trust through thoughtful blogging and a personal-touch newsletter.
8 Reasons I Recommend Squarespace for Small Businesses
Planning a website build can be overwhelming, amiright? I remember when I decided to take on my first Squarespace website for my previous small business. I compared all the platforms and share why I chose Squarespace for my business.
now in the birch & Bud Design Co. shop