Rebecca Hafenrichter
Web Designer / Web Developer Specializing in E-Commerce
London, UK
Q What do you do?
“I’m a front-end developer and web designer, working with fashion and lifestyle businesses to bring their brands to life online.”
I specialize in eCommerce, designing and building websites on Shopify (and sometimes Squarespace).
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
A few years ago, I started an accessories label, Becca Haf (link: https://beccahaf.com/), and fell in love with the process of crafting my brand from the ground up.
I started Studio Haf so that I could do more of that; work with people who are just as passionate as I am about what they are building, and help them turn their ideas into brands they feel proud of and empowered to put out into the world.
I’ve continually honed my offering and sharpened my skills over the years. My zone of genius is definitely eCommerce design and development, but I also love starting at the very beginning with a client, diving into the brand strategy and building out a visual identity from scratch.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I think there are a few key ways in which I stand out. Firstly, having built my own handbag brand from scratch over the past few years, I have a different perspective to most web designers and developers. I’ve been where a lot of my clients are, so I have an insight into the specific challenges of starting and running a product-based business. My first experience of Shopify was as a merchant (with no technical skills at the time), so when I’m building a site, I really have the client’s experience in mind.
Secondly, I prioritise building a strong strategic foundation when I’m designing. I want to make sure we are building on a solid baseline, so that the website makes sense and feels intentional, rather than just being aesthetically appealing. My combined knowledge of both web design and development is also valuable here: my experience in design makes me a better coder, and my knowledge of code informs and enhances my design. It’s always about striking a balance between strong visuals, purposeful, intuitive design and a technically seamless website.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m currently working on a couple of web design and development projects - one for a beauty brand based in LA and another for a hair studio in East London.
Q What’s your style?
Less is more. I like to keep things minimal, with an elevated, editorial feel. My Pinterest account is a good representation of my aesthetic.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I wear a few different hats in my business, but my favourite is when I’m building what I’ve designed. When I’m in the development phase of a web project the hours fly by. I love that I’m always learning and pushing my boundaries and capabilities - it’s just the right level of challenge.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Finding community. I’ve been working by myself for a long time, and I’ve recently realised how much I crave an IRL creative community, to collaborate with and get inspired by.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Grow my audience on Instagram! I’m still trying to figure out if I can run my business with out it 😬
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Don’t be afraid to fail, to get things wrong, to change your mind. The sooner you do the sooner you’ll figure out what’s really right for you.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Mindset. And how to undo limiting beliefs.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I love working with new and emerging eCommerce brands in the fashion and lifestyle industries. I’m also always excited to partner with talented designers and creative agencies who want me to bring their designs to life with code.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal collaboration would probably be with a super talented web designer who shares a similar aesthetic to me. I love working in partnership and building beautiful websites (and I don’t mind if I’m not always the one designing them)!
Q What is your rate?
My website is the best place to find up-to-date service packages and prices.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Drop me an email, (rebecca@studiohaf.com) with some details about your business and the project or fill in the enquiry form on my website. Then we can schedule a call or meet in person (location permitting), to chat things through further and see if we’re a good fit.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
I think the best way to stay creative is to experience new things and get out of my comfort zone. I do this by being open to new experiences, and exploring different ideas and points of view.
This member profile was originally published in April 2022, last updated March 2023