How to Choose a Squarespace Template (Without Overthinking It)
Let’s be honest: picking a Squarespace template can feel like walking into an ice cream shop with 187 flavors and no idea what you’re craving. Overwhelm is real. But don't worry—I'm here to walk you through it.
I’m Victoria, website strategist and educator, and I’ve helped hundreds of creators, designers, and service providers build stunning Squarespace websites—without drowning in decision fatigue. So today, I’m showing you how to pick your Squarespace template fast (and without the usual spiral).
First things first: A little truth bomb about templates
Spoiler: It doesn't matter as much as you think.
Since around 2020, all Squarespace templates run on the same engine: the 7.1 drag-and-drop editor. That means every single one of them is technically the same under the hood. You can move, delete, or redesign every section—regardless of the template you choose.
Templates aren’t rigid. They’re just a starting point—a moodboard in website form.
Option 1: Choose by aesthetic or purpose
If you’re a visual thinker, start by picking something that feels close to your brand.
Squarespace has categories like "Online Store," "Portfolio," or "Membership" on the left-hand menu of the template library. But don’t worry—every template can handle every feature. Yes, even e-commerce.
What matters more is this: Choose the vibe you want or the template that has the most overlap with the kinds of sections and pages that you need. Then tweak it.
So if a certain layout catches your eye or the fonts just feel right—go for it. You’ll likely change most things anyway, but it helps to start with a base that gets you 20% of the way there.
Option 2: Let the AI do the heavy lifting
Feeling stuck? Squarespace’s Blueprint tool is actually pretty amazing.
Instead of browsing endless templates, just click “Start with AI” and walk through a few prompts:
What kind of site are you building?
What’s your style? (Minimal? Playful? Bold?)
What sections do you want? (About, Services, Contact, etc.)
The result? A fully pre-built website with your chosen pages and structure—ready to customize.
Pro tip: If you’re the type to tweak everything for hours, Blueprint gives you a head start and saves you from analysis paralysis.
But what if you change your mind later?
That’s the beauty of Squarespace: nothing is set in stone.
Saw a section you love in another template? Just rebuild it. Add a blank section, drag in your elements, and customize the layout. Want a round image with some punchy copy above it? Easy.
You can always blend ideas from multiple templates or rebuild something from scratch. No developer needed.
My actual advice for your template choice?
Just pick one. Start playing. Change things later since your website is NOT a book, but rather a living, organic thing.
You can even spin up a few trial websites (Squarespace lets you have multiple) and test different looks before committing.
And if you want to skip the DIY completely: my team offers a template setup service—and yes, there's a 25% off link below this post that gives you a longer trial and a nice discount on your subscription.
Next steps?
Once you’ve picked a template (or had AI build one), head over to this tutorial where I show you exactly what to do next—like adding your content, setting up your SEO basics, and connecting your domain.
Trust me, it’s easier than you think.
And yes: done is better than perfect.
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P.S. Don’t forget to grab that 25% discount if you’re planning to upgrade your site. I’d love to help you get your website live—without the overwhelm.