About Me
Hello, I’m Carola van der Gugten
My journey into the world of web design began years ago when I crafted my very first website in Joomla for my own company. During that time, I was deeply involved in implementing and enhancing HR and payroll systems. What I found most fulfilling in my role was the creative process of designing and improving these systems, ensuring that they provided a user-friendly experience.
In 2016, my husband Peter and I took off to South Africa to run a guest house. We built an extensive website using Joomla, but when Divi came along, we gave it a fresh Divi facelift, making website building a breeze for us and others.
As life led us back to Europe, my focus shifted to web design, and Peter became my steadfast technological support. I find immense joy in the art of infusing colors, captivating images, and thoughtful design into websites. The ever-evolving nature of this field, including areas like Analytics, SEO, and ChatGPT, fuels my desire to keep learning and innovating.
Now for the personal scoop – I’m an Aquarius, a creative soul, flexible, results-oriented, and, well, sometimes a tad impatient 😉. Married to Peter, I’m also a proud mom to two wonderful children and doting grandma to two grandkids. When I’m not immersed in web design, you’ll find me hitting the road in the camper with Peter. I’m all about nature, be it walking in the mountains, cycling, or go to the beach. Good food and a nice glass of red wine are my perfect companions.
Your digital presence matters, and I’m here to make it captivating and effective.
My trusty tech sidekick, Peter van der Gugten
Define
Before we start we have a meeting to discuss all your wishes.
Design
I make a first design based on all your input.
Refine
After the first prototype is made we start to refine the design.
Build
Only when you approved the design, we start building.
My Vision
“I firmly believe in the transformative potential of a captivating website for every business. In today’s digital age, what was once customary – meeting in person before engaging in business – has shifted to the online realm. Your website has become your virtual business card.
My commitment is to make professional website solutions accessible to all. I understand the importance of affordability, and that’s why I offer the opportunity for you to actively participate in the process. You can take the reins and contribute to your website’s creation. However, if you prefer a hassle-free approach, I’m here to take care of everything for you. Reach out to me, and we can explore the best options tailored to your needs.”
I believe design is a process
I prototype and iterate
I design and build
Some of My Work
“Peter and Carola are my website creators already for years. What I really like about our proffesional relationship is that they are both very communicative and help you with advice and assistance on maintaining your own website. They also always respond immediately to a question or an adjustment. Peter is the technical guy and Carola has an eye for beauty and layout, in short they are both the perfect team behind your website. I could really recommend them to anyone.”
“Carola & Peter have been very helpful with the building and the maintenance of our company website. They are always just a quick email, whatsapp or video call away for any assistance. I can highly recommend their services.”
“Carola created my website with a lot of expertise and passion. What really appealed to me is that Carola really listens to what your wishes are and provides appropriate advice and creates, using her expertise, how it can be better to achieve the website goal. I will definitely recommend SmartMakerWeb because of price, quality and commitment.”
