Why Startups Choose This Atlanta Web Design Company Over Big Agencies
- Steve Crayne
- May 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 18
When I chosen to help launch MovieStop from scratch, we were trying to take the game trading model and apply to movies. We relied on our hustle, instincts, and the pressure to get everything right from Day One. I helped build the marketing plan, designed the merchandising, negotiated with vendors, and created the foundation for success. Within months, we were competing locally with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, and winning.
But my startup experience didn’t begin there.
Before MovieStop, I played a key role in building Blockbuster Entertainment into a household name. As Senior Buyer, I managed a $50 million accessories category across 3,625 stores and grew Q4 sales by 39%.
“Steve Crayne played a major role in our success of building a national retail brand because of his tenacity and dedication to getting the job done,” said Rich Ungaro, EVP, Domestic Retail at Blockbuster. “He brings an unbridled passion... and is a terrific influence on his co-workers with his positive 'we can get this done' attitude.”
Those lessons—from Blockbuster to MovieStop—are the same ones I bring to every startup client today at Starting Gate Marketing, a top-rated web design agency in Atlanta.
Most web design firms will promise a sleek website. But web design for startups need more than that.
They need:
- A clear brand voice and message—fast
- UX that converts, even on a tight budget
- A site that grows as they grow
- A partner who understands pressure, pivots, and product-market fit
With me, you're not hiring just a web designer in Atlanta—you're hiring someone who’s been in your shoes.
Whether you’re pitching investors or pivoting mid-launch, I help you show up online like you’ve already won.
Let’s build something great together.
Steve Crayne
Starting Gate Marketing
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Steve Crayne’s background help startup founders today?
Steve brings the same energy, urgency, and strategic clarity from his retail career into every startup project. Founders benefit from his deep understanding of branding under pressure, lean marketing tactics, and how to build a growth-ready foundation from Day One.
What makes Starting Gate Marketing different from other web design agencies?
Unlike most web designers who just focus on aesthetics, Starting Gate Marketing delivers:
A fast, clear brand message
Conversion-first UX on a startup budget
Flexible sites built to scale
Deep founder empathy from someone who’s been there
Why should startups choose a web designer who understands pivots and pressure?
Because early-stage startups need more than a pretty homepage—they need a digital presence that evolves fast, communicates value clearly, and supports investor pitches, product pivots, and go-to-market strategy. That’s what Steve Crayne delivers.
How can I work with Steve Crayne at Starting Gate Marketing?
To start your project with a top-rated Atlanta web design company that understands startups, simply reach out here. Whether you’re launching, scaling, or repositioning, Steve will help you show up online like you’ve already won.
