Web Design Cold Email Template (+ 5 Examples That Get Replies)

A good web design cold email is short, specific and about them, not you. Below is the template we recommend, plus five versions for different situations. Replace the brackets, keep it under 90 words, and send it from your own Gmail.

The core template

Subject: Quick idea for [Business Name]

Hi [First Name], I was looking for a [niche] in [city] and noticed [specific problem]. I put together a new version of your website so you can see the difference: [preview link] Would it be useful to have this live for [season / goal]? [Your name]

Example 1: No website

"Hi Dana, you have 64 great reviews on Google, but there's no website for people to book Luna Yoga. I built one you can look at here: [link]. Want me to put it live this month?"

Example 2: Site not mobile-friendly

"Hi Tom, Northside Barbers' site is hard to use on a phone (tiny text, no book button). Here's a mobile version I made for you: [link]. Should I send over how it works?"

Example 3: Website down

"Hi Bella, your website link on Google shows an error page right now. I rebuilt it so customers can order again: [link]. Want me to fix it this week?"

Example 4: Outdated design

"Hi Dr. Lee, Greenleaf Dental's footer still says 2017, and new patients notice. Here's a modern version with online booking: [link]. Worth a 10-minute look?"

Example 5: Email before building

Not sure the owner is interested? Ask first, build second: "Hi Mike, would a new website with instant quote requests help Summit Roofing this storm season? If yes, I'll make you a free preview."

Rules that keep you out of spam

• Send from a real inbox, not a no-reply address.
• Check emails first: bounces hurt your sender reputation. See how to check an email list.
• One link only, no attachments.
• Respect daily limits and send in small batches.

Then follow up. Here's our 3-step follow-up sequence.