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What Most Web Designers Don’t Know About eCommerce (But I Do)

Updated: 7 days ago

Most web design companies in Atlanta can build an online store. However, few understand how to actually sell.


Before I became a top-rated Wix Partner, I managed $50 million product categories, rebuilt merchandising departments, and analyzed SKU-level profitability. I wasn’t just building product pages; I was optimizing sales, inventory, and the shopper experience at scale.


Smiling woman in a lavender shirt holds a phone and yellow card, seated in a cozy room with abstract art, soft lighting, and neutral decor.

Retail Strategy That Powers Online Stores


At Blockbuster, I implemented new marketing and merchandising strategies across 3,625 stores. This effort grew Q4 sales by 39%.


At UAV Corporation, I restructured a $50 million merchandising department in just six months. This exceeded sales goals and slashed dead inventory by nearly 40%.


At MovieStop, I priced and forecasted 80,000 SKUs. This drove over $20 million in yearly revenue.



What Most Designers Miss


Most eCommerce sites are built by designers lacking a business background. However, selling is very different from designing.


Here’s what I understand:


  • SKU management and merchandising psychology are crucial.

  • Effective upsells, cart flow, and product hierarchy drive purchases.

  • The balance between visual storytelling and operational clarity is vital.

  • Sometimes, less product is indeed better than more.


Real-World Results: T.R.U. CBD PRODUCT


I recently built the online store for T.R.U. CBD PRODUCT, a wellness brand launched by Grammy-winning rapper 2 Chainz. The site combines sleek design with smart merchandising for an immersive shopping experience.


Explore the site here: T.R.U. CBD PRODUCT


Client Testimonial


“Steve exquisitely designed my personal brand website and a very cool CBD store for my friend 2 Chainz. I now tell all my friends that Steve should be their first choice for a Web Designer.” 


— Phyllis Newhouse, CEO & Founder of XSI


Silhouette of cannabis leaves against an orange sunset. Text above reads "T.R.U. CBD Product" with menu items like Home and Shop.

How to Ensure Your Online Store Sells


Building an online store isn't just about aesthetics. Here are some strategies to ensure your store effectively engages customers and drives sales:


Understand Your Target Market


Before you start designing, research your target audience. What are their preferences? What challenges do they face? Knowing your customer will shape your store's design and functionality.


Prioritize User Experience


User experience (UX) plays a huge role in converting visitors into customers. Ensure your website is easy to navigate. The process from landing on the site to completing a purchase should be smooth and straightforward.


Optimize for Mobile


With more shoppers using their phones, ensuring your online store is mobile-friendly is crucial. Designs should adapt seamlessly to various screen sizes and devices.


Implement Clear Call-to-Actions


Every page should guide your visitors toward clear actions. Use vibrant buttons and concise texts for calls-to-action like "Add to Cart" or "Shop Now."


Utilize High-Quality Images and Descriptions


Invest in professional photography for your products. High-quality images can significantly impact buyer decisions. Pair them with detailed descriptions that answer potential questions.


Conclusion


Let’s build an online store that doesn’t just look good—it sells.



Man in plaid shirt and jeans leans against a stone wall in a rustic interior, with a relaxed expression. Wooden floor and window in view.







Steve Crayne

Starting Gate Marketing



Frequently Asked Questions


What makes Steve Crayne different from other eCommerce web designers in Atlanta?

Unlike most designers, Steve Crayne brings a deep background in retail strategy. Before becoming a top-rated Wix Partner, he managed $50 million product categories, restructured merchandising departments, and optimized sales performance at a SKU level—experience that now powers the online stores he builds.


What kind of online stores does Steve Crayne build?

Steve designs high-converting eCommerce websites that combine merchandising strategy, UX optimization, and mobile responsiveness. He’s built stores for both startups and high-profile clients, including T.R.U. CBD PRODUCT, a brand launched by Grammy-winning artist 2 Chainz.


How does retail strategy improve online store performance?

Steve applies real-world tactics like:

  • Smart SKU management and inventory control

  • Effective product hierarchy and upselling techniques

  • Clear call-to-actions and frictionless cart flows

  • Balancing visual storytelling with conversion clarity

These strategies ensure the online store doesn’t just look beautiful—it actually sells.


Can Steve Crayne design a custom eCommerce site for my product or brand?

Absolutely. Whether you're launching a new product, refreshing your brand, or optimizing an existing store, Steve can create a tailored, high-performing site. His work is especially valuable for businesses seeking to blend brand impact with retail performance.


How do I start working with Steve Crayne or Starting Gate Marketing?

You can get started by contacting us here. Once you share your vision and goals, Steve will guide you through a strategic discovery process to ensure your site is designed to convert, scale, and stand out in today’s competitive eCommerce market.

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