Every Webflow designer has a story and mine didn’t begin with design school or a creative agency. I started as a software engineer, burned out and ready for change. Years later, I’ve built a thriving business using Webflow, helping small businesses and purposeful entrepreneurs bring their online presence to life.

If you’re wondering whether you can build a career in Webflow design, let me share my journey - the messy start, the mindset shifts, and the lessons I’d want every aspiring designer to hear.

1. Where it all began

I didn’t start as a Webflow designer. I was a software engineer for five years, working in the tech world until I realized I didn’t enjoy it. I was constantly looking for a way out.

Then came a turning point.

After I moved to the U.S. post-marriage, I stepped back from work for a few years. Life got full - kids, school runs, daily routines. But as my kids grew, I knew it was time to get back into the workforce. And I was determined to do work that lit me up.

So I enrolled in an Internet Web Development course, where I learned the fundamentals - HTML, CSS, and a bit of JavaScript. That gave me a good foundation, but what came next changed everything.

Discovering Web Design and why I left WordPress behind

My first dive into real-world projects happened on WordPress. I built a few sites, but I wasn’t thrilled. Too many plugins, constant maintenance, security issues - it felt clunky.

Then COVID hit. While the world slowed down, I used the time to learn something new. I took a freelancing course on Udemy that introduced me to Webflow - a visual tool that lets you design and build responsive websites without writing code. Game changer!

My instructor didn’t just teach me how to build in Webflow - he also taught me where to find work, how to pitch, and how to fish, not just get a fish.

2. My learning curve with Webflow

Learning Webflow wasn’t all smooth sailing. In fact, not having mastered HTML, CSS, and JavaScript came back to haunt me. But here’s the good news - Webflow helped me understand those concepts better because I could see them in action. I also took the Webflow course with Flux Academy and it was great!

What helped me level up

• Webflow University - Fun, beginner-friendly tutorials that made things click
• YouTube - Channels like Ran Segall’s Flux Academy helped me learn the business side
• Practice - I created demo websites for churches, nonprofits, and friends to practice real projects

At first, I didn’t charge. But I was building up a body of work.

The moment I felt confident enough to say “I’m a Webflow Designer” was when I looked at my first portfolio and realized - I had something real to offer.

3. Building a portfolio without clients

Starting out, I didn’t have paying clients - but I still needed a portfolio. So I got creative.

Here’s what I did

• Built mock projects for fictional brands (like a local baking shop or a church)
• Created free websites for small businesses and nonprofits who needed help
• Used Webflow Templates and modified them to show customization skills
• Added detailed case studies, even if the brands were made up
• Designed and launched my own Webflow portfolio to showcase everything

Volunteering also led to reviews, referrals, and confidence. My portfolio became the foundation that helped me get hired - even before I had a long client list.

4. Getting my first paying clients

I got my first paid Webflow project through a freelance platform called Upwork. It was for a psychotherapist who needed a clean, modern site. I charged $900, and it felt huge at the time.

From that first project, things snowballed.

How I positioned myself

• Focused on clarity and trust in my portfolio
• Wrote clear project descriptions and outcomes
• Got some testimonials from my clients
• Made it easy to contact and work with me

I’ve made my fair share of mistakes - underpricing, scope creep, overdelivering without charging more. I still struggle sometimes with pricing, but I’ve learned that confidence builds with every project.

5. What I’d do differently if I started today

Looking back, there are things I’d definitely do differently if I were starting fresh.

Here’s what I’d change

• Niche down earlier: When you try to help everyone, your message helps no one. I'd focus on small service-based businesses and coaches sooner.
• Create a lead magnet: Something simple like my Ultimate Homepage Checklist to build my list and attract the right clients.
• Get better at discovery calls: Learning to ask the right questions and understand client pain points is key.
• Stop waiting for perfect: I’d launch my site, share my process, and learn in public - even when it wasn’t “done.”

6. Tips for Aspiring Webflow Designers

If you’re just starting, take it from someone who’s been there - you don’t need to be perfect, just consistent.

Tips for your journey

1. Start before you’re ready - learn and earn as you go
2. Share your small wins online to build credibility
3. Use templates and repeatable systems to save time
4. Join the Webflow community - Facebook groups, forums, Twitter
5. Invest in your own portfolio - this is your best marketing tool

Most importantly, be kind to yourself. You’re building something that takes time.

7. Final Thoughts: This Path Is Possible

You don’t need a design degree. You don’t need 10 years of experience.

If you’re passionate about creating and helping people, and you’re willing to learn - Webflow can change your career.

I’m a mom, an immigrant, and someone who didn’t love her 9-to-5. Now I work with incredible businesses around the world, on my own terms. That’s the power of Webflow and choosing a path that aligns with your values.

👋 Want to start your journey into Webflow?

‍Check out my resources, templates, or book a discovery call. I’d love to help you take the next step - whether you’re a business owner or a fellow creative.

Let’s build something beautiful together!