The Beginning

Hands-On Web Design, located near Minneapolis, Minnesota, was founded by Vicki Stephenson. She began web design in 1996, experimenting with her own personal websites. Within a year she had created a website for the video production company she was employed with as a production assistant. As she worked more and more with web design it became clear it was time for a career shift.

In 1999, Vicki took a position as a Web Content Administrator at Katun corporation, a well-known aftermarket manufacturer of copier parts and supplies. At Katun she played a key role in launching the company's online product catalog in multiple languages, worked in a team to redesign their public website, helped create and later redesign Minco's website (a company owned by Katun), and created a design for Katun's intranet. Now as the company's Web Developer in the Marketing department, she works on many web projects that include design, maintenance and research.

Now and Looking Forward

In 2003 Vicki began working on freelance web design projects, including the website for Peanut's Place Dog Daycare (read their comments about this project on the Clients page). She especially enjoys working with small companies and not-for-profit organizations.

In 2006 Vicki earned the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from The Project Management Institute. Her ability to effectively organize projects, create accurate time estimates and budgets is a great asset to any project. Her membership in Toastmasters furthers her communication and leadership skills.

Vicki came up with the name "Hands-On" Web Design to emphasize that she not only works hard on all projects, but clients also have a "hands-on" experience, helping from the start to create a website that best fits their needs and brand strategy.

A design isn't just whipped up out of no where or created from a well-worn template. Vicki gathers as much information about the company or organization as possible, researches the competition, creates several possible design mockups, elicits feedback from the client, and then creates the final product.

Visit the Contact page to begin your project today!