Choosing the right website platform isn’t just about features, it’s about setting your business up for success online. Your website needs to be more than just good-looking, it should be functional, scalable, and aligned with your long-term goals!
At White Canvas, we create websites with both Squarespace and WordPress, depending on what each client needs. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, understanding the pros and cons of each platform can help you make an informed decision about which platform is best for you. Whether you’re revamping your digital presence or launching a new brand, here’s what you need to know.
The Basics: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start with a high-level view.
Squarespace is an all-in-one platform that bundles hosting, design templates, and built-in tools. It’s sleek and user-friendly, perfect for simpler sites that don’t need a lot of custom functionality.
WordPress, on the other hand, is an open-source content management system (CMS) that allows for full creative control. It requires more technical setup and maintenance, but in return, you get total flexibility.
Each has its place in the world of website design, depending on what your brand needs now, and where you’re heading.
Squarespace: Simple, Streamlined, and Stylish
Squarespace is often the go-to for companies that need something clean, quick, and easy to manage. It’s particularly well-suited to brochure-style websites, landing pages, or internal hubs.
Squarespace Pros
- All-in-one solution: hosting, templates, backend access, and e-commerce tools included
- Intuitive for in-house teams to update content
- Ideal for visually driven, content-light websites
- No technical maintenance required, Squarespace handles security and updates for you
- Faster to launch (typically 3–4 months)
- Cost-effective option for straightforward projects
Squarespace Cons
- Limited design flexibility. Custom layouts and unique branding can be harder to implement
- Not open-source, which may restrict integrations or more advanced features
- Less control over SEO and site performance, especially when scaling
- May not support complex growth plans or content-heavy strategies long term
WordPress: Custom, Scalable, and Built for Growth
If your brand is investing in a long-term digital presence, WordPress is hard to beat. It’s the platform of choice for corporations and brands looking for custom website design in Vancouver and beyond.
WordPress Pros
- Fully customizable with Gutenberg, WordPress’ built-in page editor – the design, layout, structure, and features are all up to you
- Built for flexibility, allowing you to collect leads, support member logins, or handle complex forms
- Built to scale – whether that means multilingual content, user portals, or multi-site functionality
- Excellent for SEO and content marketing strategies
- Can be tailored for different user levels on the backend (we include a training call with every WordPress website we build so you can make your own updates!)
WordPress Cons
- Requires regular maintenance (security updates, plugin management, backups)
- Higher initial investment compared to Squarespace
- Hosting is separate, but gives you full ownership and control
- Longer timeline (typically 4–5 months for a fully custom build)
WordPress is a solid foundation for anyone planning for long-term digital growth.
Budget + Timeline: What to Expect
Squarespace projects are typically leaner and faster. Since the platform handles much of the technical setup, the process is often more design-focused.
WordPress projects, on the other hand, involve more strategy, customization, and development, making them a better fit for organizations with more complex needs or future growth in mind.
Whether you’re working on a microsite or a full digital ecosystem, we map out clear timelines and deliverables from day one.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Choose Squarespace if:
- You need a polished site on a tight timeline
- Your site functions like a digital brochure (think: who you are, what you do, how to get in touch)
- Your internal team wants something easy to update without worrying about tech
- You don’t need advanced integrations or SEO depth
Choose WordPress if:
- You want full design freedom and a custom user experience
- You’re planning for future integrations or content growth
Your brand is investing in SEO, digital campaigns, or marketing automation - You need your site to do more than just show up online
Examples in Action
Want to see the difference in action?
Squarespace: albertlawco.com – A clean, professional website built for clarity and ease of use
WordPress: https://hippiesnacks.com/ – A vibrant, product-focused website designed to showcase the brand, educate consumers, and drive in-store purchases.
Both platforms work great, but the infrastructure behind them is very different.
To see the other WordPress and Squarespace websites we’ve built, check out our portfolio!
Let’s Find Your Perfect Fit
Whether you’re updating an existing site or planning a major rebrand, the right platform can help your team move faster, connect more deeply with customers, and scale with confidence. The best platform is the one that aligns with your goals and where you see your brand going.
At White Canvas, we specialize in helping brands build the right foundation, whether that’s a streamlined Squarespace site or a custom WordPress website in Vancouver. If you’re unsure which direction to take, we’d love to help.
Contact us to start the conversation. We’re always happy to chat through your options and help you choose the path that fits best.