Custom vs Template Website FNQ: Do You Need a Custom Site or Will a Template Do?

Website design can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re juggling budgets, timelines, and tech skills. If you’ve been wondering whether to go custom or stick with a template, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down custom vs template website FNQ businesses often ask about—so you can choose what’s right for your stage of growth.

Custom vs Template Website FNQ: What’s the Difference?

Custom Website: Fully designed from scratch to suit your brand, goals, and user experience.

Template Website: A pre-designed layout you customise with your own branding and content (think Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify themes).

Template Website Example for an Queensland Service Business

Brisbane Valley Trail Rides | Service Website Design Mockup

When a Template Works Just Fine

✔ You’re just getting started and need something affordable

✔ You’re DIYing and want control

✔ Your site only needs a few simple pages (Home, About, Services, Contact)

✔ You have strong brand visuals (logos, photography) that elevate the template

When a Custom Website Is Worth It

✔ You’ve outgrown your current site and want a strategic layout

✔ You need a site built for SEO, speed, and mobile optimisation

✔ You want to stand out in FNQ as a premium brand

✔ You’re tired of “making it work” and want something tailored to you

Key Questions Before You Decide

• What’s your budget and timeline?

• Do you feel confident updating and managing the site yourself?

• How important is visual differentiation in your industry?

• What’s the main goal: enquiries, bookings, education, or e-commerce?

Local Tip: FNQ Real Talk

Many small businesses in Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Tablelands start with a template—which is completely fine. But as you grow, investing in a custom website will often boost conversions, improve SEO, and give you a seamless, branded client experience.

Wrap Up

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a best fit for your stage of business. Whether you start with a template or go straight to custom, your website should feel strategic and aligned.

At Studio Behana, I design both template and custom websites, so you can make the right choice when comparing custom vs template website FNQ options.

Not sure what’s right for your business? Let’s chat—I’ll help you make the best choice for where you are now.