Blog 7: How to Choose a Wix Certified Designer

So, you’ve decided to hire a designer for your website. Smart move. But with endless portfolios and promises floating around the internet, how do you know who to trust?

Whether you’re building your very first site or rebranding something that’s outgrown its DIY beginnings, choosing the right designer is everything. And no, it’s not just about who has the flashiest homepage or the biggest price tag.

🧠 What Makes a “Good” Designer, Anyway?

Let’s break it down into real-world criteria:

• Platform experience: Have they built sites in Wix Studio, or are they using classic Wix or another platform altogether?

• Design + Strategy: Can they make it look good and function well? Design is more than pretty colours—it’s navigation, copy hierarchy, and call-to-actions that convert.

• Communication style: Do they listen? Do they make you feel heard? You’re going to be working together, not just trading files.

• Post-launch mindset: Are they setting you up to manage your site if you want to? Or locking you into long-term retainers you didn’t ask for?

  
  

🔍 What to Look For in a Wix Studio Designer

When vetting potential designers, here are a few trust signals to keep an eye out for:

• A strong portfolio of Wix Studio builds (not just screenshots—live sites if possible)

• Clear, jargon-free communication about their process

• Experience in your industry or with similar small businesses

• Certifications that show platform-specific knowledge

  
  

👀 What Is a Wix Certified Designer?

Wix offers a certification program for designers who’ve proven they understand both the platform and web best practices. It’s not just a badge—it’s a sign that the designer has completed training, passed an exam, and knows how to build fast, accessible, responsive, and search-optimised sites.

🌟 I’ve completed the Wix Web Designer Certification myself through the Wix Studio Academy, and I plan to complete their new certification program when it launches. Why? Because staying sharp helps me deliver better outcomes for my clients.

📝 But let’s be clear: A certification doesn’t guarantee someone is the right fit for your project—just like not having one doesn’t mean they aren’t. Some incredibly talented designers focus on other platforms or haven’t yet gone through the Wix process. It’s one trust signal among many, not a dealbreaker either way.

What matters more? Their work, their process, and whether they get what your business is about.

🙋‍♀️ What About Wix Partners?

You might also see people listed as “Wix Partners." This refers to Wix’s internal partner program, which offers designers benefits such as access to priority support, advanced tools, and resources, among other benefits.

While it doesn’t necessarily mean someone is certified or vetted, it can be an indicator that they work with Wix professionally and regularly.

The Importance of Communication

Effective communication is crucial when working with a designer. You need someone who understands your vision and can articulate their ideas clearly and effectively. This ensures that both parties are aligned throughout the project.

Ask potential designers about their communication style. Do they prefer emails, calls, or project management tools? Understanding their approach can help you gauge whether it aligns with your preferences.

Understanding the Design Process

Every designer has a unique process. It’s essential to understand how they work. Some may start with wireframes, while others dive straight into visuals. Knowing their approach can help you set expectations and timelines.

Inquire about their typical workflow. How do they handle feedback? What are the milestones? A well-defined process can lead to a smoother collaboration.

Budget Considerations

Budget is often a significant factor in choosing a designer. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality frequently comes at a price.

Discuss your budget openly with potential designers. A good designer will provide options that fit your financial constraints while still delivering quality work.

TL;DR

• Not all designers are created equal, especially when it comes to Wix Studio.

• Look for real platform experience, a portfolio you can click through, and someone who listens to your goals.

• A Wix certified designer has demonstrated knowledge of the tools and applied best practices through their work.

• However, remember that credentials aren’t everything—the right fit ultimately comes down to communication, quality, and trust.

  
  

Coming up next:

👉 Blog 8: How Wix Studio Handles SEO

We’ll demystify the basics of SEO and show how Wix Studio helps small businesses stay visible online—no plugins or panic required.

Got questions?

📩 Drop a comment below or send me a message; let's chat!