Shopify's Top 10 Small Business Websites: 8th Dial's Winning Web Design for London Terrariums

At 8th Dial, we know that a well-designed website is more than just a digital storefront—it’s an experience, a brand statement, and a powerful tool for business growth. That’s why we’re thrilled to see London Terrariums, a website we designed and built, featured in Shopify’s list of the 10 Best Small Business Websites! This recognition is not only an achievement for our client but also a testament to the importance of thoughtful, strategic web design.

But what exactly makes these websites stand out? Let’s dive into some key takeaways from Shopify’s feature and share insights on how you can create a winning website for your business.

QUICK FIND

1. Key Takeaways from Shopify’s Best Small Business Websites

2. How 8th Dial Designed a Shopify-Recognised Website

3. Top Tips for Creating a Standout Small Business Website

4. Final Thoughts

1. Key Takeaways from Shopify’s Best Small Business Websites

Shopify’s curated list showcases small businesses that have mastered the art of online presence. Here are some common factors that set them apart:

Strong Visual Identity – The best websites have a clear, consistent brand aesthetic that aligns with their products and ethos. From colour schemes to typography, every design choice reinforces the brand.
Seamless User Experience – Navigation is intuitive, product pages are well-structured, and checkout processes are frictionless. A great website makes the buying journey effortless. Studies show that 88% of online shoppers won’t return to a website after a bad user experience.
Compelling Storytelling – Small businesses thrive on personal connections, and their websites reflect that. Whether through founder stories, behind-the-scenes content, or well-crafted product descriptions, these websites build trust and authenticity. Businesses with strong brand storytelling see conversion rates increase by up to 22%.
Mobile Optimisation – With mobile commerce making up 58.99% of global website traffic in 2024, a mobile-friendly design is essential. In the UK, over 72% of e-commerce sales now come from mobile devices. The best small business websites ensure fast loading speeds and seamless browsing on all screens.
Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs) – Every page has a purpose. Whether it’s a ‘Shop Now’ button, newsletter signup, or a booking form, strong CTAs guide visitors towards meaningful interactions. Research shows that 90% of website visitors who read a headline also engage with its CTA.

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2. How 8th Dial Designed a Shopify-Recognised Website

London Terrariums was featured in Shopify’s article because their website perfectly balances aesthetic appeal with functionality. Here’s what we focused on:

A Clean, Nature-Inspired Design – We embraced earthy tones, elegant typography, and high-quality imagery to reflect the brand’s passion for greenery and craftsmanship.
Seamless E-commerce Experience – From product discovery to checkout, we ensured a smooth, user-friendly experience that encourages conversions. Slow-loading websites cost retailers £2.6 billion in lost sales annually in the UK alone.
Story-Driven Content – London Terrariums isn’t just about selling products; it’s about community, education, and sustainability. We integrated storytelling elements that connect customers with the brand’s mission.

3. Top Tips for Creating a Standout Small Business Website

If you’re looking to take your website to the next level, here are some expert tips:

Prioritise Speed & Performance – 47% of users expect a website to load in under 2 seconds. A delay of just one second can reduce conversions by 7%. Optimise images, leverage caching, and use a reliable hosting service.
Make It Mobile-Friendly – With 70% of web traffic coming from mobile devices, your site must be responsive and easy to navigate on smaller screens. In the UK, 57% of users say they won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site.
Use High-Quality Visuals – Professional photography and engaging visuals can increase conversion rates by up to 80%. Consumers remember 65% more information when it is paired with relevant imagery.
SEO Matters – Organic search drives 53.3% of all web traffic. Optimise your site with relevant keywords, fast loading speeds, and quality content to improve search rankings.
Tell Your Story – Authenticity builds trust. 86% of consumers say authenticity is key when deciding which brands to support. Share your brand’s journey, mission, and values to connect with your audience.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Having London Terrariums featured in Shopify’s Top 10 Best Small Business Websites is an exciting moment for us at 8th Dial, but more importantly, it highlights what great web design can do for a brand. A thoughtfully crafted website can elevate your business, increase conversions, and build long-term customer loyalty.

Want to learn more about how we created this standout website? Check out our London Terrariums case study for an in-depth look at our approach.

If you’re considering a Shopify website migration or need a completely new site, we’d love to help! Our expertise in crafting the best Shopify websites ensures your brand not only looks great but also performs seamlessly. Get in touch with us today, and let’s bring your vision to life.