Meeting Purpose

Discuss website redesign and update for Messeret Stroman Wheeler's acting portfolio site.

Key Takeaways

• Messeret has new headshots and an updated reel, making it an ideal time for a site refresh

• Tony proposed a $1000 budget for a full site makeover, to be completed in March 2025

• The redesign will include updating to Squarespace 7.1, reorganizing content, and implementing new features like portfolio sections

• Messeret will send Tony her new photos to review and select for the site update

Topics

Current Website Status and Needed Updates

• Messeret's site needs an upgrade to Squarespace 7.1 for improved features and design options

• New materials (headshots, reel) are ready to be incorporated into the site

• The site structure may be reorganized to better showcase Messeret's work across different mediums

New Website Features and Design

• Tony demonstrated new Squarespace 7.1 features, including:

  • Portfolio sections for showcasing different projects (e.g., Keepers of the Flame)

  • List sections for easily updatable content like acting roles

  • Billboard sections for highlighting current projects or news

• The new design will prioritize mobile-friendly layouts with ample negative space

• Tony aims to create a site that's easy for Messeret to update herself in the future

Career Focus and Website Strategy

• Messeret's ideal career breakdown: 95% film/TV (including producing), 5% theater (Broadway)

• The website will be restructured to emphasize film and TV work, aligning with career goals

• Content may be organized by medium (film/TV, theater, voiceover) rather than job title

New Headshots and Media

• Messeret recently had new headshots taken, which her manager is reviewing

• Tony will review the full set of photos and help select the best ones for the website

• They discussed potentially using some casual/fun shots for specific website sections

• Messeret will send Tony the link to her new photos for review

Social Media Strategy

• Tony provided insights on current social media trends, including the shift towards Stories

• Encouraged Messeret to be more personal and vulnerable in her social media presence

• Discussed the balance between professional and personal content in actor social media

Next Steps

• Messeret to send Tony the link and password for her new headshot proofs

• Tony to review photos and provide unbiased feedback on selections

• Tony to send a formal proposal for the website redesign project

• Project to officially begin in January 2025, with completion targeted for March 2025

• Messeret to make initial 50% payment on January 1, 2025

• Tony to start preliminary design work and content reorganization plans

Action Items

• Send brand questionnaire to Messeret for website redesign project. - WATCH (30 secs)

• Create & send website redesign proposal to Messeret. Include breakdown of $1000 fee, March timeline, 7.0 to 7.1 upgrade details. - WATCH (30 secs)

• Email Tony (hello@tonyhowell.co) link & password to new headshot proofs. Include info on favorite shot & any usage agreements. - WATCH (30 secs)

• Review Messeret's headshots. Select favorites. Prepare for comparison discussion w/ Messeret & her manager's picks. - WATCH (30 secs)