In any website project, there are moments when design boundaries need to be gently reinforced — and while it might feel awkward at times, having the right structures in place can make those moments easier and more respectful for both sides.

As web designers, we’re often expected to be so much more – business coaches, mindset mentors, tech support, launch strategists, even therapists at times! And if we’re not careful, it’s easy to take on more than we’re actually required to.

Website projects can feel overwhelming for our clients. There’s a lot to do, a lot to decide, and often, a lot riding on the outcome.

So I’ve found that when there are clear boundaries and a defined process, it creates clarity and calm — for everyone involved.

And here’s the thing: when our clients feel clear and calm, they trust us. And trust is the foundation for a truly great result.

So what helps with upholding design boundaries?

Here are some of the ways I’ve built boundary-support into my website design process.

Table of Contents

A transparent sales process

Before a client even signs on, I send a detailed proposal. Inside, there’s a section dedicated to how I work. This clearly outlines what’s included (and what’s not), font and colour application, what kind of customisation is possible, and what the client is responsible for bringing (like branding, imagery, and copy).

This clarity from the outset helps the client feel confident in what they’re investing in. No confusion. No awkward surprises.

This is reinforced again all the way through the client onboarding process – in the contract and welcome guide they receive after booking — so everyone’s on the same page before we even begin.

The inputs needed for a successful website project

A website can only ever be as good as the inputs provided — and if those inputs are rushed, unclear, or low-quality, the end result will feel the same.

That’s why I’m upfront in the sales call about the importance of investing in high-quality branding, imagery, and copy. If a client isn’t in a place to do that — that’s okay, but we’re likely not the right fit.

For those who are ready, I provide loads of supportive resources, checklists, and planners to help them gather what they need with clarity. This not only leads to a better website — it helps the client feel proud, empowered, and ready to launch with confidence.

Check out my website design client process which includes the website pack I send to all my clients to help them prepare high quality content.

Content due dates

I don’t start the website build until all content is received from the client. That means no "just start and I’ll send it later." Because that approach nearly always leads to confusion, scope creep, and ultimately, frustration on both sides.

Having firm content deadlines protects my time — but more importantly, it ensures a smooth experience for the client. They know exactly what’s needed, by when, and why it matters.

My contract also includes clauses and fees for delays — a last line of protection if things go off track.

Scope control with template-based design

Unlike fully custom projects, I follow a one-week website model and build from a thoughtfully designed base. This gives the project a clear shape and direction, while still allowing for flexibility and creativity.

Clients often love that they get to see the design direction before they invest — which brings a deep sense of calm.

And during the build, that structure helps prevent the project from spiralling into endless “can we just tweak one more thing” territory, which is a total energy suck for everyone and ultimately delays the website launch.

A clear, time-bound container

The one-week model itself is a boundary, if you think about it. It gives the project a defined beginning and end.

But contrary to what you might think, the one-week timeline isn’t about rushing. It’s a premium service offered within a safe container that supports everyone involved.

When I started Alana Jade Studio, I was recovering from burnout — and I could see that long, drawn-out website projects weren’t just unsustainable for me… they weren’t working for my clients either.

So I created a calmer, simpler model: one-week websites that are intentionally designed to be gentle on the nervous system.

Clients love it because:

They know exactly when their project will start and end
They get my full attention for that focused window
They stay engaged and in flow, instead of drawn-out delays
They walk away with a beautiful, functional website — without the months-long drag

And they feel it. The energy is different when there’s a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Gently reinforce boundaries at key points in the project

Boundaries aren’t a one-and-done thing. In my process, there are constant touchpoints with gentle reminders about what’s in scope and what’s happening at each stage.

For example, whenever I send a draft for review, I include a video walkthrough and clear notes about how many rounds of feedback are included, what kind of changes are possible, and when feedback is due.

This gives the client confidence that we’re on track — and helps us avoid misunderstandings or crossed wires.

If you’re curious how I word this, I share my email scripts inside the one-week website client process.

Communication boundaries

A website is a collaborative project — involving not just me and the client, but often copywriters, photographers, branding experts, and more. There are a lot of moving pieces, and communication is key.

That’s why I set clear expectations around availability, responsiveness, and how we communicate right from the start. Clients know my studio hours (generally Monday to Thursday, 9am to 3pm AEST), when to expect updates, and how to get in touch in a way that keeps everything running smoothly.

At Alana Jade Studio, email is our primary method of communication. This helps us keep track of decisions, requests, and any changes throughout the process — all in one central place. It also ensures our team can work thoughtfully and respectfully within business hours, with time and space for focus (and proper breaks too).

We don’t respond to Instagram DMs or text messages, and phone calls are by appointment only. If something urgent comes up, clients can either bring their questions to a scheduled call or email us, and we’ll respond during our studio hours.

These communication boundaries aren't just for us — they create a calmer experience for our clients too. They always know where to go, what to expect, and how to get support.

Communicating with kindness

Even with all of this in place, things can still get tricky. Clients can get overwhelmed. Scope can get blurry. Feedback can be unclear.

That’s when I come back to calm communication. If I’m unsure how to word something — especially if emotions are running high — I’ll take a moment, draft slowly, and often use ChatGPT to help me express things in a softer way.

It’s not about being overly polished or perfect. Rather, it’s about making sure the client feels supported, not scolded, and gently guided back into the process and scope of the project.

Not all clients will like your boundaries — and that’s okay

Even with a clear scope, calm communication, and solid documentation, some clients will still push back when you hold a design boundary. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s also revealing. When someone resists boundaries that have been kindly and consistently communicated, it usually means they’re not a good fit for your process — and that’s okay.

Over time, I’ve learned to not take this so personally and instead to treat these moments as data collection for the future. I ask myself: were there red flags with this client that I missed earlier?

For example, in my own experience, clients who haggle on price, are not seeing the value in what is being offered. This then makes it harder for them to respect the boundaries of the project and, I guarantee, it will show up later as scope-pushing or unreasonable demands.

That’s why I no longer give discounts or take on clients who haggle over pricing — because I know that ultimately, they won’t be happy, and neither will I.

And, more importantly, I want to reserve my energy for clients who see the value, do trust the process and are ready to show up for it.

A final note

Design boundaries aren’t about being rigid or controlling. When boundaries are woven gently into the entire experience, everyone benefits.

They help the project run more smoothly. They reduce decision fatigue. They give clients a proven process to follow — and the confidence that they’ll walk away with something they’re proud to share.

And, as the designer, you get to show up and do your absolute best work — knowing the foundations are in place for a great result.

Frequently asked questions about setting design boundaries with clients

Start by creating a process that clearly communicates what's included, how the project will unfold, and what’s needed from the client — before the project even begins. Use tools like proposals, contracts, welcome guides, and timelines to outline responsibilities and expectations. Kind reminders throughout the project (such as during feedback rounds or content handover) help keep things on track without needing to be reactive. When expectations are set early and communicated gently but consistently, clients feel supported, not surprised — and that makes boundary-holding feel far more natural.
Boundaries don’t have to be hard lines — they can be built into your process in a way that feels kind, calm, and respectful to both you and your clients. Think clear pricing on your website, defined timelines, limited revision rounds, and scheduled communication windows. These structures allow you to do your best work while protecting your time and energy. And because they’re communicated from the outset, clients are more likely to respect them — and the process flows more smoothly for everyone.
Set boundaries by creating a clear framework for how the project will run. This includes due dates for content, set revision limits, a shared schedule, and clearly outlined scope in both your proposal and contract. Use kind, proactive communication at key touchpoints to remind clients what’s included and how to get the most from the process. Boundaries aren’t just about saying “no” — they’re about creating clarity so your clients can say “yes” with confidence.
Boundaries give you something to stand on when things feel challenging. A difficult client may question scope, request extra work, or push timelines — and without clear boundaries, it’s easy to overextend yourself trying to keep the peace. But when boundaries are set from the beginning and reinforced with kind, consistent communication, they create mutual respect. They also give you a way to navigate tough moments without conflict — because you’re simply following the structure you both agreed to.

Need a hand setting boundaries in your web design business?

If you’d like to see exactly how I hold boundaries — from proposals to email scripts — you’ll love my Website Design Client Process. It includes the exact templates, tools, and wording I use with my clients to create smooth projects with great results for everyone.

Explore the client process here