Frequently Asked Questions

Most of my web design clients invest from £350 per month on an ongoing basis. This covers design, build, hosting, maintenance and updates. Project-based pricing is also available if you prefer a one-off build. Every website is custom-built from scratch - I don't use templates or page builders. I'm always transparent about costs with no hidden fees.

A typical website takes 2-4 weeks from initial brief to launch. More complex sites with custom functionality, e-commerce, or large amounts of content may take 4-8 weeks. I'll give you a clear timeline upfront so you know exactly what to expect, and I keep you updated throughout the process.

No. I build custom, hand-coded websites that are faster, more secure and more flexible than anything built on WordPress, Wix or Squarespace. This means better performance, better SEO, and a site that's built specifically for your business rather than squeezed into a template.

Absolutely. Every website I build is designed mobile-first. Over 60% of web traffic in the UK comes from mobile devices, so your site needs to look and function perfectly on phones and tablets. I test across multiple devices and screen sizes before launch.

Yes. All ongoing web design packages include hosting, SSL certificate, regular updates, security monitoring and technical support. You don't need to worry about the technical side - that's my job. I also make content updates as part of the monthly service.

Think of it as having a part-time marketing department without the overhead of a full-time hire. I handle marketing strategy, content planning, social media, website management, design work, copywriting and reporting. The mix depends on what your business in Belper or across Derbyshire actually needs.

No. I don't believe in locking people into lengthy contracts. Most ongoing services run on a rolling monthly basis with a simple 30-day notice period. You stay because the work is good and the results are there - not because you're contractually trapped.

I provide regular reporting that tracks meaningful metrics - not vanity numbers. This includes website traffic, enquiry volumes, search ranking positions, social media engagement and growth trends. We agree on clear goals upfront so you always know whether we're on track.

It depends on your audience. For most B2C businesses in Derbyshire, Instagram and Facebook are essential. B2B businesses benefit most from LinkedIn. TikTok works well for trades, hospitality and personality-driven brands. I'll recommend the right platforms based on where your customers actually spend their time, rather than trying to be everywhere at once.

Consistency matters more than frequency. For most small businesses across Belper and the Amber Valley, 3-5 posts per week on your primary platform delivers strong results. The key is maintaining a regular schedule that your audience can rely on, rather than posting 10 times one week and disappearing for a month.

It depends on your time, skills and budget. I've written a detailed guide on this topic. In short, if you can dedicate 5-10 hours per week and enjoy it, in-house can work. If consistency is a struggle or your time is better spent elsewhere, outsourcing typically delivers better results for less total cost.

I offer professional photography including headshots, product photography, brand imagery, commercial photography and event coverage. All shoots take place on location across Belper, Amber Valley and Derbyshire. I provide fully edited, high-resolution images ready for web and print use.

I offer full video production services including brand films, social media video content, promotional videos, interviews, testimonials and event coverage. I handle everything from planning and filming to editing and delivery. Read my guide on video marketing for small businesses for more on what's involved.

Pricing depends on the scope of the project - how many hours, how many locations, and what deliverables you need. I provide clear quotes upfront after understanding your requirements. For ongoing clients, photography and videography can be included as part of a monthly marketing package.

Copywriting is the words on your website, marketing materials and social media. Good copy communicates clearly, builds trust and persuades visitors to take action. If your website gets traffic but doesn't convert visitors into enquiries, the copy is often the missing piece. It's also critical for SEO.

Yes. Most web design projects include copywriting as part of the package. I write clear, SEO-optimised content that speaks to your customers in your brand's voice. I also offer standalone copywriting services for existing websites, marketing campaigns, brochures and email marketing.

Yes. I create complete brand identity systems including logos, colour palettes, typography, brand guidelines, social media templates and marketing collateral. A strong brand identity helps you charge more, attract better clients and stand out from competitors across Derbyshire. Read more about why brand identity matters.

Not necessarily. If your logo works well but your overall brand presentation is inconsistent, a brand guidelines package can bring everything into alignment without starting from scratch. I'll assess what you have and recommend the most cost-effective approach for your business.

Yes. I help small businesses across Derbyshire implement practical AI tools and automation. This includes chatbots for customer service, workflow automation, AI-assisted content creation, and custom solutions. No jargon - just tools that save you time and money. See my guide on AI tools for small businesses for some starting points.

No. AI is a tool that amplifies what you're already doing - it doesn't replace the need for strategy, creativity and genuine human connection. The businesses seeing the best results use AI to handle repetitive tasks and speed up production, freeing up time for the work that requires a human touch.

Based in Belper, I work with businesses across the Amber Valley, Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands. For digital services like web design, social media management and copywriting, location doesn't matter - I work with clients across the UK. Photography and videography services cover Derbyshire and surrounding areas.

North Bear Media is a one-person studio. You work directly with me, Norton Hunt, on every project. This means no account managers, no junior staff, no lost-in-translation moments. You get senior-level expertise and personal attention on every piece of work.

Get in touch via email at info@northbearmedia.co.uk, call 01773 307 308, message on WhatsApp, or book a free 30-minute Teams call. We'll discuss what your business needs and I'll put together a clear, no-obligation proposal.