Michael Brodzik: the system I use to build $5K to $30K websites
If you’re a web designer trying to move beyond hourly billing, this interview is full of practical insight. Michael Brodzik of Vative Creative shares the system he uses to build websites priced from $5,000 to $30,000 — with a project-based model designed to give clients clarity while leaving room for strong creative work. In this conversation, Michael breaks down how he prices projects, how he keeps clients informed, how he handles delays and scope, and why he sees SquareKicker as an essential tool in every Squarespace build.
Why project-based pricing leads to better websites
Michael built his business around project-based pricing because it creates better outcomes—for both him and his clients. Instead of tracking time or limiting revisions, he focuses on delivering the best possible result for the agreed price. That shift allows for more creative freedom and removes the pressure clients often feel with hourly billing. “My business model is project-based… it’s super transparent to the client.”
Early in his career, hourly pricing led to rushed decisions and incomplete work. Moving to fixed pricing eliminated that tension and allowed him to fully solve the problem, not just finish the job. “A lot of clients would rush to get it done… and I always felt as if the website was not finished.”
How Michael prices websites up to $30,000
Michael’s pricing reflects value, not just deliverables. What started as $500 projects has grown into a minimum of $5,000, with more complex builds reaching $25,000–$30,000. That evolution came from experience, confidence, and a deeper understanding of what clients actually need. “My website pricing starts at nothing less than $5,000… and they go up to $25,000–$30,000.”
He’s quick to challenge the idea that smaller websites should cost less. In many cases, simplicity requires more skill, not less. “Some people think because it’s one page, it’s basic… that’s actually brilliant if you can make something as perfect as that minimal.”
Managing multiple web design projects without chaos
With multiple projects running at once, structure and communication are essential. Michael uses a project management system to centralize communication, but his biggest advantage is setting expectations clearly from the start. “I am currently building six websites. You’re the seventh in line… we will start your website at this date.”
He walks clients through a defined process—from kickoff to delivery—and keeps them informed at every stage. Still, delays often come from one place: clients not providing feedback or content on time. “The hardest part is getting them to give me the stuff back.”
To manage this, he builds accountability into his contracts and follows up consistently, ensuring projects don’t stall unnecessarily.
Why SquareKicker is essential for modern Squarespace designers
For Michael, SquareKicker is a core part of his workflow—not an optional add-on. Every site he builds includes it because it enables a higher level of design and efficiency that standard Squarespace tools can’t match. “It’s in every single one of my websites. Not a single one goes without it.”
He treats it as a business expense rather than something to upsell, comparing it to a tool a builder simply needs to do their job well. “It’s like a power drill for a builder… it’s the tool that I need to make efficient websites.”
The small details that make a big design difference
What sets SquareKicker apart, in Michael’s view, isn’t just big features—it’s the subtle improvements that elevate every build. Fine control over spacing, layout, and positioning allows him to create more polished, intentional designs. “SquareKicker’s best thing is all the little things that it does.”
Those small adjustments—often invisible to clients—are what make a website feel premium. It’s the difference between something that looks “good enough” and something that feels professionally crafted. “It’s those little details that make a website look infinitely better.”
Standing out in a world of AI and website builders
With AI tools and website builders becoming more powerful, the barrier to entry for creating a website has never been lower. But that also means standing out requires more than just functionality. “Squarespace can do it, Wix can do it… what are you doing that’s going to set your website apart?”
Michael’s answer is a combination of skill, attention to detail, and using the right tools to push beyond default limitations. The goal isn’t just to build a site—it’s to create something distinctly better than what anyone else can easily replicate.
Advice for web designers switching to project-based pricing
For designers considering a move to project-based pricing, Michael’s advice is straightforward: commit to quality and don’t cut corners. Even when a project takes longer than expected, the standard of work should never drop. “Don’t cut corners ever.”
That mindset builds trust and long-term value. Each project becomes an opportunity to exceed expectations and strengthen your reputation. “If you quote somebody $2,000… you need to build the best $2,000 website you can build.”
Why treating every project as a challenge leads to growth
Michael approaches every website as a new challenge, regardless of budget or scope. That perspective keeps his work sharp and continually pushes his skills forward. “Every website I build, I look at it as a new challenge.”
Even when projects feel demanding, he focuses on delivering the best possible outcome and learning from the experience. Over time, that consistency compounds into better work, higher pricing, and stronger client relationships.
Key takeaways for scaling a web design business
Michael’s approach offers a clear path for designers looking to grow a sustainable business. Focus on value-based pricing, communicate clearly, and invest in tools that elevate your work. Most importantly, treat every project as an opportunity to overdeliver. “As long as you truly build the best website that you can build, that’s all that matters.”
See Michael’s work
Website: https://vativecreative.com/
Enjoyed this? Don’t miss Michael’s conversation with Nick on the Looks Good From Here podcast. Michael discusses how he started in web design, the Qube awards, and his SquareKicker Templates.
