Design Quickies for Romance Authors
I create swoon-worthy brands and websites for indie LGBTQIA+ romance authors*, so you can turn casual readers into love-struck superfans and sell more books.
* If you’re an LGBTQIA+ author outside the romance genre, a queer ally, and/or a hybrid author, I’d still love to support you as long as our values align.
You deserve a brand that’s as bold and unforgettable as your stories. Let’s spice it up!
When you’re an indie author, your brand and website aren’t just about aesthetics. Your online presence is key to making sure that agents, booksellers, press, and other collaborators take you seriously. Not to mention, it plays a huge role in inviting readers into a world they fall for, over and over again.
And as a queer indie author, you deserve every bit of the recognition and success as your cis-het counterparts. That’s why my role goes beyond making your brand and website beautiful — it’s about equipping you with tools to elevate your authorship, claim your space, and thrive in the world of romance writing.
It’s time to stop hiding all your ✨magic✨ behind an outdated, DIY website
If you’re like most romance authors, your current site probably feels more like a glorified blog than a true reflection of who you are and the worlds you create.
Your DIY website was supposed to be a quick fling, but when you’d rather spend your time writing scenes that make your readers blush, well… eh, it’s complicated.
The truth is, that outdated site isn’t just a turn-off — it’s cutting into your revenue, misrepresenting your badassery, and costing you opportunities to connect with (and sell to) your readers.
If you’re ready to give your website a steamy upgrade and ignite your brand’s sex appeal, then let’s turn up the heat and make it happen!
With a knockout brand and website, you can…
Create a polished online presence
Boost your credibility and stand out in your genre with a brand that makes you look like the career author you are — not just someone writing steamy fanfics in your spare time.
Immerse readers in your world
Give your readers that love at first click feeling with a space that makes them feel excited to connect with you, discover your books, and get lost in the worlds you create.
Build a loyal community
Keep in touch with readers with a website built to capture hearts and email addresses. Turn visitors into subscribers who love staying in the loop on your next releases and other updates.
Get in bed with your sales
Your website can be a direct sales platform that puts more revenue in your pocket. Run exclusive promos to reward fans, all from your own site (even if tech isn’t your thing).
Fast-track your path to full-time writing
With a powerful brand, you’re one step closer to a full-time love affair with storytelling (if that’s your end goal). Spend less time on marketing and more time doing what you love — finessing plot twists and happy endings.
Take ownership of your brand
No more playing nice with algorithms or relying on rented space like Amazon or Goodreads. With your own site, you can connect directly with fans and build something that’s uniquely yours.
Unlock new opportunities
A professional, perfect-to-you brand and website opens doors to exciting collaborations and industry connections. Show up in style and attract perfect-match partnerships, press features, and more.
Diversify your income
Give readers even reasons to love your world, from exclusive merch to behind-the-scenes content. Each revenue stream is a way to turn casual fans into devoted admirers, adding depth and dollars to your brand.
No slow burn here: Get your dream brand & website in just 1-5 days
Maybe you’re already dreaming about the big reveal… but the thought of waiting weeks (even months) to get there has that spark fading fast.
Traditional branding and website projects are the ultimate ‘will-they-won’t-they’ storyline: endless revisions, constant back-and-forth, and way too much waiting. Can’t we just skip to the good part?!
That’s why I specialize in Design Quickies: day-long intensives where I focus exclusively on bringing your brand vision to life. In just one or two days (sometimes more, depending on your goals), you’ll have a brand and website that’s as captivating as the stories you write.
Just like any good quickie, these design days are fast, intensely focused, and deeply satisfying. You won’t believe how much we’ll get done!
Just so we’re on the same page...
When you book a Design Quickie, you’re paying for my expertise, time, creative energy, and undivided attention — not a guaranteed set of deliverables.
With my experience and efficient process, we’ll get a lot done… but just how much depends on your pre-work, your website goals, and how responsive you are on your actual design day(s).
Meet Your Designer
Hi, I'm Kelly Noel! (they/she)
I first realized I was queer/bi in middle school, and it was a lesbian romance anthology (the first representation I’d seen) that helped me understand I was also attracted to women and femme-presenting folx. Growing up Catholic, queer stories were scarce, and that book changed everything for me.
While representation has improved a lot since the early 2000s, I know that queer authors still face challenges in getting their voices heard and their books seen. That’s why I’m passionate about helping LGBTQIA+ authors create powerful brands that not only reflect their authentic selves but also attract loyal readers and support their careers.
With over a decade of experience in design and marketing, I create brands that are as authentic and captivating as the love stories you write, helping you draw in perfect-fit readers. Not only that, but I’m here to reflect the unique voice you bring to the genre.
I’m here to make sure you’re seen, celebrated, and supported at every step.
“My goal is to amplify the work of romance authors — especially queer romance authors — who challenge norms, promote inclusivity, celebrate sex-positivity, and disrupt racist and patriarchal systems through their stories.”
What makes me your brand’s perfect match?
I’m so glad you asked! Here’s why I’m the best possible designer to support you.
As a queer, non-binary person, I understand the importance of representation and authenticity. (No need to worry about a cis-het designer “getting” your brand.) I’m also committed to using inclusive design best practices.
As a holistic sex coach for trauma survivors (that’s my other brand), I’m committed to sexual and erotic empowerment. So in case you were wondering, no, your writing is NOT too spicy for me. 😉
With a lifelong love affair for reading and writing — including my own romance novel — and a degree in English, I have a deep understanding of fiction. This knowledge helps me best highlight what makes your work unique (and sellable).
I work exclusively with authors (primarily indie and hybrid romance authors). I know exactly what should (and shouldn’t) be on your website to help you sell more books.
With 14+ years of professional design experience, including designing WordPress websites using Divi since 2018, I’m not new to this. This expertise helps me create truly beautiful websites in record time.
I’m a ‘one-and-done’ shop: from copy to design, I do it all, ensuring your brand and website speak with one strong, cohesive voice across your visuals and words.
“I felt like it was truly a good online reflection of myself and my work.”
I had the pleasure of meeting Kelly Noel Zeva through mutual acquaintances as I was looking for assistance with my online presence. As an emerging poet and artist, I felt I was not very visible online, nor did I have a good way to market my books and art effectively. Kelly Noel was immediately full of questions about my style, my work, and the kind of presence I wanted online.
From there, they absolutely ran with ideas and suggestions to craft me an amazing artist website complete with e-commerce, a calendar of events, and a mailing list engine for future newsletters. Kelly Noel was open to suggestions and feedback at every turn, so I felt like it was truly a good online reflection of myself and my work.
They also took the time to train me on the basics of my site so that I can update to add upcoming events, new art, and my forthcoming book, so the website is truly dynamic. I will forever be grateful to them for helping me present a truly professional face on the internet, and I know this is just the beginning of me being a more productive and present force online.
What can we get done during a Design Quickie?
While we can’t do everything in a day (damn, I wish we could!), my streamlined process and expertise in this area means we can get a lot done in just a few days.
Here’s a taste of what we might be able to do together:
FOR NEWBIES:
1 Day
Branding + One-Page Website
Perfect for authors who haven’t published yet but want to get ahead of the game. We’ll develop your brand’s visual assets (logo, colors, fonts, imagery) and create a sleek one-page website that establishes your online presence and gives readers a taste of what’s to come (and ways to stay in the loop).
RECOMMENDED:
2 Days
Branding + Standard Website
My most popular and recommended package for indie authors ready for a professional online presence. In two days, we’ll develop your core brand assets and a polished 3-5 page website. (Multi-passionate and have a lot more content? We can add a day or two for a bigger site as needed.)
FOR EXPERIENCED AUTHORS:
3+ Days
Direct Sales Setup and More
Perfect for established authors ready to own their sales channel. Along with a full e-commerce site for direct book sales, I’ll set up seamless fulfillment for your eBooks and paperbacks. And if you’re really ready to spice things up, let’s talk merch! Honestly, the possibilities here are endless.
Please note that these are typical packages, and the length of time needed will depend on whether you have existing brand guidelines/assets, your goals, and more.
Your Pre-Quickie Checklist Awaits!
Curious about what kind of magic we can create together, and what you’ll need to prep ahead of our little rendezvous? My Design Quickie Prep Checklist walks you through everything you’ll need to ensure our design day(s) is as smooth as silk.
Drop your information below, and I’ll send a copy of it to your inbox!
The Chapters of Our Love Story
Here’s exactly what the process looks like.
The Prologue
As soon as we’ve made it official, you’ll get access to your client portal. It’s got everything you need to set up for our Quickie.
Inside, you’ll find checklists for your specific project type, your workbook, and quick tutorials to make sure we’re all set.
Then, a week or so before our day, we’ll hop on a 45-minute strategy call to dive into your vision, nail down priorities, and make sure I have everything I need to work my magic.
The Quickie
Around 9am Central on the day itself, you’ll get a little “hey, I’m getting started!” message from me on Voxer.
From there, expect real-time updates — images, page previews, links to live mock-ups — so you can give feedback as I go.
This is a fast-paced, focused process designed to get your brand looking its best without the endless back-and-forth.
The Epilogue
Once the design work is done, we’ll meet again for a 60-minute post-intensive call to polish any last details and walk through everything.
I’ll show you the overwhelm-free way to use Divi, so you feel confident managing your new site. Then, I’ll be here for the next 30 days to answer any questions over Voxer or email.
Our story may wrap here, but you’ll have everything you need to confidently grow your brand (until you’re ready for more!).
What's Included
Are you a fellow list lover? Here’s exactly what’s included in your Design Quickie to make sure it’s a smooth, productive, and truly satisfying experience:
- A personalized client portal: This is the heart of your project where you’ll find all important documents and information — no hunting down emails or misplaced details!
- Thorough pre-work process: I’ll guide you through everything you need to prepare ahead of time, so our Quickie is seamless and as productive as possible.
- Pre-intensive strategy call (45 minutes): Before I design anything, we’ll chat to set priorities, discuss your vision, and make sure I have all the logins, links, and assets I need to work my magic.
- 7 hours of focused work: During our Quickie, you and your brand have my full and undivided attention. Trust me, I can bang out a lot when I’m focused! You’ll get real-time updates and chances to give feedback as I go!
- Post-intensive support call (60 minutes): After the work is done, we’ll meet to make final edits (if needed) and walk you through how to use your new Divi-based WordPress site, so you feel confident making future updates on your own.
- 30 days of post-intensive support: No one likes being left high and dry! For the next 30 days, reach out by email or Voxer with questions. I want you to feel empowered to make tweaks on your own, without needing to shell out big bucks for a designer on retainer.
The Investment
$750 per Design Quickie (paid in full or secure your date with 50% down)*
*To ensure my services are accessible, I do offer extended payment plan options upon request.
Building a brand for the long haul: Adrian's story
Before
After
Adrian J. Smith (aka AJ) is a queer author who has been publishing sapphic fiction for more than a decade. Best known as a romance author, she writes 10-12 novels a year, and has published romance, speculative fiction, and thriller novels. While some of her series are traditionally published with small presses, most of her novels have been indie published.
When Adrian and I first connected, her website really didn’t do her career justice. Functioning more as a blog, it lacked the personal branding and visibility a prolific author like her deserved.
The personal branding was practically nonexistent, hiding her witty, passionate personality behind a generic, low-impact design. Her book info was buried behind a barely-visible tab, and readers had limited ways to connect with her beyond blog comments.
Because her website wasn’t set up for direct sales, Adrian was also losing out on revenue by relying on third-party platforms for her indie book sales — a significant hurdle towards full-time authorship for someone balancing full-time work, parenthood, and a packed writing schedule.
We started Adrian’s project with a two-day Design Quickie to establish a brand and website that reflected her personality and her growing reputation.
We started by developing a mood board, outlining new logos, icons, brand colors, fonts, imagery samples, and brand words — all designed to be visually memorable and instantly recognizable. We focused on balancing professionalism with a fun and approachable vibe, matching her daring characters and the rich worlds she brings to life.
Using those assets, I designed a website that puts Adrian’s books front and center. Visitors can easily explore Adrian’s body of work but also get a closer look at who she is, including links to her social media accounts for deeper engagement.
The new design feels like a true digital home for Adrian and her characters; a place where readers can connect with her, discover her stories, and feel part of her journey.
Next up, As she plans her next steps, we’re preparing to add e-commerce functionality so she can sell paperbacks and eBooks directly to her readers, keep more revenue, and move closer to her goal of full-time authorship.
In Her Words...
“I definitely recommend working with Kelly Noel.”
Kelly Noel was so easy to work with. My brain doesn’t speak design work at all, and they made it easy to find a design that would work for my business and beyond, setting me up for the future rather than just the here and now.
I definitely recommend working with Kelly Noel, and will gladly share their name with anyone who is asking for a website designer.
Answers to your ❤️🔥 burning ❤️🔥 desires questions
I'm not a romance author. Can I still book a Design Quickie?
Sure! While I have a soft spot for romance authors (especially those that write spicy novels), I’ve worked with indie/hybrid authors across other genres, namely thriller, paranormal, and spec fic. Several authors I’ve worked with have published in multiple genres, and I’ve even worked with a poet and an indie romance editor.
My biggest thing is this… do we share the same values? If so, I’d love to support you, even if you’re not a romance author.
I’m not a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Can we still work together?
As long as you are a queer ally/co-conspirator and we align on our values of unity, inclusivity, and amplifying marginalized voices, I would love to support you. I do not work with cis-het men and women who write gay fiction.
Is it really worth investing in my brand as an indie author?
Absolutely! Investing in your brand and website can make one of the biggest differences in the visibility and growth in your career. As an indie author, a polished brand helps show potential collaborators that you’re serious and creates a memorable experience for your readers that builds loyalty and boosts sales. Especially when you don’t have a publishing house’s budget behind you, investing in your brand opens up so many opportunities for you.
I’ve heard website projects take weeks or even months. Can this really be done in a day?
Yep! Well, in a couple of days, depending on your needs. My Design Quickies are all about you and your brand — I’m laser-focused on it, and so are you. We prepare ahead of time to make the most of our design time, and the fact that I specialize in this area means I can work at lightning speed to get things done.
How many Design Quickies will I need?
That depends on what you’re looking for. I recommend most clients book at least two Design Quickes (2 days) for a brand refresh and website build, but setting you up for direct sales or creating additional pages can require extra time. Check out the examples above on this page, or download my free prep checklist to get a better sense of how many days you’ll need.
Can I book more than one Design Quickie at once?
Absolutely. When scheduling your Design Quickie below, just select the start date you want, then use the scheduler’s “Select and add another time” feature to add as many days as you need.
If I’m booking multiple days, do we do multiple kickoff calls, etc.?
You can, but we generally don’t need to. When booking multiple days, we typically have one main kickoff call and one post-intensive support call to minimize bookings and keep our calendars open. I’ll be sending you updates and opportunities for feedback on Voxer throughout our design day(s).
What do you need me to do to prep for my Design Quickie?
That depends on what exactly we’ll be working on — but I’ve got you covered. After booking, I’ll send you a checklist of pre-work to complete ahead of our intensive. Plan to spend a few hours gathering any necessary information and completing it. This prep ensures we make the most of our time together and hit the ground running on the day.
Do I need to have my copy ready?
Not necessarily! I’m a ‘one-and-done’ shop, which means I can help with both visuals and copy if needed. If you have a draft, that’s fantastic, but if not, I can write copy that aligns with your brand and speaks to your readers.
Do I need to be available on the actual day of the Design Quickie?
Yes, I’ll need you to be reachable throughout the day for quick feedback and approvals. This won’t require your full attention all day—just occasional check-ins to keep the project moving and ensure everything is coming together the way you envision.
What if I’m in a different time zone than you?
If you’re in the United States (or in a time zone shared with the United States), this shouldn’t be an issue as we’ll still have plenty of overlap during our “awake” times. If you’re an international author planning to book at least 2 design days, we can work together to find a schedule that suits us both!
What happens if we don’t finish everything in one (or two) days?
We’ll set a prioritized list ahead of time to make sure the essentials are covered, with a bit of wiggle room for “nice-to-haves”. If there’s anything we can’t quite wrap up in our offboarding call, I’ll give you some options for booking additional time.
I’m worried about changes after. What if I need further support?
I know that tech and design might not be your cup of tea. That’s why I provide 30 days of post-intensive support via email and Voxer (a walkie-talkie-style messaging app) for any questions that come up. While this isn’t the place for additional revisions or requests, I’m happy to guide you through wherever you’re feeling stuck navigating your new site. I’ll also walk you through your new website platform on the post-intensive call, showing you how easily you can manage things on your own.
What if I’m not techy or don’t understand design?
That’s exactly why I’m here! I’ll handle all the complicated bits and pieces for you, guiding you through each step of the design process. After our time together has wrapped up, I’ll walk you through your new site and make sure you feel confident managing it on your own.
I'm an author who has limited financial resources. Do you offer different payment plans?
Yes, I do currently offer extended payment plans, upon request. In all cases, payment must be complete (or with only one outstanding payment) before your Design Quickie(s) occur. Please contact me at hello@kellynoelzeva.com to explore your options.
I have some questions and would love to chat with you before booking…
Of course! Click here to book a free, no-obligation call with me where we can discuss your project, answer any lingering questions, and make sure we’re a perfect fit.
Pause — let's do a values check.
If we’re going to work together, it’s important to me that we share a foundation of mutual respect and values.
I work with people who value unity; inclusion; and lifting up marginalized, oppressed, and historically-underrepresented groups. This includes acknowledging that:
- Black Lives Matter ✊🏿
- Many of us live on land stolen from First Nations people 🌎
- Queer love is beautiful and deserves equal protection under the law 🏳️🌈
- Trans folx deserve to receive age-appropriate, affirming medical care 🏳️⚧️
- All genders beyond the binary (including mine) are valid and deserve to be respected ⚧️
To the best of my ability, I strive to communicate only things that are true, kind, and necessary, but I’m also human — when I mess up, I am willing to have a repair conversation and acknowledge the impact of my actions 🗪
Shall we seal the deal?
If you’re ready to elevate your online presence, attract (and reward) loyal readers, and boost your book sales, I would love to help you create a brand and website you’re head over heels for. Let’s make it official! 💍😍
Use the calendar below to book your Design Quickie by selecting the date that works best for you. You can also use the “Select and add another time” feature to book multiple dates.
Once you’ve selected your date(s), you’ll be asked to agree to the terms and complete payment — either 50% down or paid in full, your choice!
Prefer to discuss your project (or a custom payment plan) first? No problem — click here to book a free, no-obligation discovery call.