The answer is yes….but make sure you do your due diligence first so you’re not stuck overpaying for something you don’t want.
What is Squarespace?
Squarespace is a website-building platform that offers some beautiful templates and drag-and-drop functionality. It provides an all-in-one solution including hosting, domain registration, and integrated features like blogging and e-commerce tools. For authors who want a professional-looking website without coding expertise, it can be a good choice, especially if you don’t feel like you’re super tech savvy and just want to check “set up my website” off of your list.
However. The “ease of setup and use” comes at a price.
Squarespace Pricing
- Personal Plan ($16/month annually, $23/month monthly)
- Best for basic websites with essential pages
- No advanced integrations
- Business Plan ($23/month annually, $33/month monthly)
- Enhanced customization and marketing tools
- Light e-commerce with 3% transaction fee
- Basic Commerce ($27/month annually, $36/month monthly)
- Ideal for authors selling books/merchandise
- No transaction fees
- Advanced Commerce ($49/month annually, $65/month monthly)
- Full online store capabilities
- Advanced e-commerce features
Note on Additional Costs: Domain renewal costs $10-15/year after the first free year. Consider registering through NameCheap instead of Squarespace for better pricing. SquareSpace also charges for email marketing if you’re not in a plan that includes that feature.
Strengths and Limitations
Usually I’m just totally against “do it yourself” platforms like this because of the cost, but I’m trying to grow as a person this year so I will say a couple of nice things. Squarespace shines in several areas. Its professionally designed templates are mobile-responsive and can make any author’s site look polished and modern. The platform offers excellent security with built-in SSL certificates and reliable servers. Their support team is available 24/7 through email and live chat, complemented by comprehensive help guides and an active community forum.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Compared to platforms like WordPress, Squarespace offers limited customization options and fewer integration possibilities. Plus, and I’m sorry to keep harping on this, but monthly subscription costs can add up over time, especially if you’re not even really using the website that much. Also (and maybe this is just a “me” problem because I am a tech nerd that writes non-fiction), DIY platform sites like these are notoriously sucky for non-fiction authors because they are harder to rank in the search engines (I would tell you why but I assure you, you do not care).
Is Squarespace Right for You?
Consider your specific needs as an author. Squarespace might be perfect if you value aesthetic design and want a straightforward, all-in-one solution with minimal maintenance, and if you are a “more money than time” person. The platform works well for authors who prefer to focus on content rather than technical details.
However, if you don’t have budget to spare, you need deep customization options, plan to build complex features into your site, or need the site to do great in the search engines, you might want to look elsewhere. Technical authors who enjoy having complete control over their platform might find Squarespace’s contained platform too restrictive.
Setting Up Your Author Website
If you decide to use Squarespace, the setup process is straightforward. Start with their 14-day free trial to test the platform. Choose a template that works well for authors—look for designs with good typography and layouts that showcase books effectively.
Your author website should include several key elements:
- An engaging About page that tells your story
- A Books section highlighting your work
- A blog for connecting with readers
- Contact information and social media links
- An email newsletter signup form
- An events calendar if you do readings or signings
A Note on Budget
Before committing to Squarespace, carefully consider your budget as an author. While the platform offers excellent features and design, the ongoing costs might be better spent on email marketing services or advertising to build your reader list. WordPress, though initially more challenging to learn, can offer significant long-term savings.
The final choice depends on your specific needs, technical comfort level, and budget. While Squarespace offers a polished, professional solution, take time to evaluate whether its benefits justify the investment for your author platform.
