Hi, I’m Mary

Custom Web Design in Victoria, BC

Where Pretty Meets Practical

Strategy-led design with a soft bloom.

Serving small businesses in Victoria, BC and across Canada.

Mary Newell

Flexible Packages for Growing Businesses

Thoughtful design for businesses that deserve to shine

I design strategic websites that small businesses can actually afford — and feel proud to share. After years in the professional world, I’ve shifted into semi-retirement, which lets me focus on the work I love most: helping entrepreneurs grow. Every project combines thoughtful design, true collaboration, and a commitment to giving back to the community that’s supported me. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, there’s a package that fits where you are right now, and where you want to go.

It Wasn’t Always About Websites

Before I ever designed a website, I spent 30+ years in government — building systems, solving problems, and yes, surviving my fair share of meetings-that-could-have-been-emails. Along the way, I also poured time into my community, from local sports groups to housing co-ops.

That background means I bring a mix of organization, creativity, and practicality to every site I build. I know how frustrating tech can feel, so I make the process simple, collaborative, and (dare I say) fun — preferably over coffee in my favourite pink mug.

You deserve a website that simply fits: comfortable, functional, unmistakably yours. My job is to make sure it feels that way from start to finish — so you can get back to running your business while your site quietly does its job.

Your Future Website’s Friends

No cookie-cutter templates. No stock photo imposters. Just real businesses run by real people — each with a clear vision and a website that knows how to make an entrance. Every project here comes dressed in its own brand colours, perfectly sized logos (bless), and design choices that actually fit the personality behind the business.

Go ahead, scroll. Your dream website might be waiting for its debut.

Karen the Barber

Windsor, NS | notthatkaren.ca

A barber in Nova Scotia, this one-page site, with an additional offering, is confident, clean, and completely her. Updated in 2025, perfectly tuned to mobile-first clients booking local events and cuts. Fast, fun, and easy to update.

Ara Parisien

Victoria, BC | araparisien.com

My first official site—and yes, she’s about due for a little digital Botox. Spiritual coach and teacher in Victoria, BC. We rebuilt her site from WordPress.com to WordPress.org to better support her evolving offerings—readings, courses, and the I AM Journey. SEO-friendly and built for growth.

Web Design that Works FOR You

Based in Victoria and serving clients across Canada, I create custom sites that look polished and behave themselves. Here’s what that means for you:

  • Clear paths to contact, book, or buy.
  • Fast, accessible pages with core SEO covered.
  • A path forward so updates don’t eat your weekend.

You focus on your business. I’ll make sure it looks as good online as it does in real life.

Free guide

Not sure where to start?

Plant the seed. I’ll bring the plan.

The Website Prep Kit turns “I don’t know where to begin” into a simple step-by-step: clarify your message, gather the right content, and sketch a site that feels unmistakably you.

You’ll get:

  • Clarity prompts that bloom into real copy
  • A page-by-page content checklist
  • A friendly roadmap for working with me

Drop your email and I’ll send it. I’ll also share the odd tip or peek behind the curtain. Unsubscribe anytime.

Kind words from my clients

Highly recommend her if you want someone who gets small business and delivers results…

Mary was exactly what our business needed. She took our outdated website and completely transformed it—clean, modern, and easy to navigate. She quickly understood both sides of our business—Cocoa Pesto Catering and the Food Shoppe—and gave us the perfect mix of personality and professionalism. Communication was smooth, and every detail was handled with care and confidence. Our clients love the new look, and we finally feel proud to send people to our site. We’ve continued working with Mary on design updates and are excited to see where she takes things next—especially as we look to move everything to Canadian hosting. Highly recommend her if you want someone who gets small business and delivers results.

— Scott Geddes, Owner, Cocoa Pesto Catering & The Food Shoppe

I’ve seen a real boost in both new and returning clients…

I didn’t think I needed a website, but after connecting with Mary, I quickly realized how crucial an online presence is. The process was easy and collaborative, and the result was a sleek, professional site that perfectly reflects my business.

Thanks to the user-friendly design, I’ve seen a real boost in both new and returning clients. I highly recommend Mary for any small business owner looking to elevate their brand with a stunning, functional website!

Karen Embanks, “Not That” Karen, the Barber

Her expertise, creativity and technological savvy…

For years I have struggled creating and maintaining my website. I did not have enough technological knowledge in order to do the professional job I wanted. Mary has been a godsend! Her expertise, creativity and technological savvy has totally transformed my website into something streamlined, professional and ever so easy on the eyes! Her attention to detail is outstanding and creative ideas have always been on point. I am so grateful to have Mary on board as she has ensured my website stands out and impresses!

Ara Parisien

Ready to start

Let’s Chat About Your Website

A 30-minute discovery call is the quickest way to see if we’re a fit. We’ll talk goals, timelines, and next steps—no strings attached.

If calendars aren’t your thing, you can always send me a message instead.