Learn more
Explore Web Matters
A few useful places to start if you’d like to know more about the business, the person behind it, and the values that shape the work.
Design Philosophy
Learn the rules I use to create a modern and visually compelling websitey.
Read more about design philosophy →About Michelle
My personal story, from law school to discovering the internet and becoming a web designer.
Read Michelle’s story →Client Testimonials
Kind words from clients I’ve worked with over the years.
Read testimonials →How it started
A small business built on fairness, honesty and practical help
The Web Matters story is also the Michelle Sullivan story. The idea of becoming self-employed came from wanting to work in a way that aligned with my values: fairness, professionalism, honesty and genuine care for clients.
I realised the only way to work for a company that consistently upheld those values was to create my own.
Web Matters today
- Started in 2006
- A New Zealand limited company
- Based in Christchurch, New Zealand
- Specialising in small to medium business websites
- Providing WordPress, Shopify and Squarespace support
- Offering website training, care plans and consultation
Experience
Web design experience that goes back to the early days of the internet
Back in 1995, when I built my first website, the web was a very different place. But the basic principles of good website design and marketing have stayed surprisingly consistent.
Built my first website while working for a tourism marketing agency - hard coded in HTML using Notepad.
Started Web Matters after years of experience working at web design agencies in many different roles.
2026 marks my 20th anniversary of Web Matters, with many long-term client relationships.
Why Web Matters?
A personalised website service from someone who knows your business
Over the years, I’ve heard many stories from clients who have had difficult experiences with web freelancers or agencies. They've lost websites, lost domain names, experienced poor communication, were unclear about costs and had web developers disappear on them.
Clear process
Every prospective client receives detailed information about how my website process works, written in plain English.
Transparent costs
I work hard to remove uncertainty by being upfront about likely costs, responsibilities and next steps.
Long-term support
I value lasting client relationships. Many clients have worked with me for years, some for well over a decade.
“Michelle, you made a process I was terrified about painless and even enjoyable. You didn’t just transform the site, it was your interaction with me that I truly appreciate.”— Annette Taylor
Small business advantage
Why working with a small web design business can be a real advantage
When you work with Web Matters, you’re not just another project to be managed. You work directly with me, and I take the time to understand your business, your website and what matters to you.
The advantages
- Continuity of service over many years
- A friendly, easy working relationship
- Direct access to the person doing the work
- Practical business and website experience
- No unnecessary jargon or agency layers
- A genuine interest in your business success
Next steps
Where would you like to go next?
View Services
See how Web Matters can help with website design, support, care plans and training.
Explore services →View Portfolio
Browse examples of website projects and recent client work.
View portfolio →Read Testimonials
See what clients have said about working with Web Matters.
Read testimonials →Need help with your website?
If you’re looking for practical website help from someone experienced, approachable and easy to work with, I’d be happy to hear from you.
Book a Zoom Call