Frequently Asked Questions

What does a marketing consultant actually do?

I help business owners make better marketing decisions. That might mean improving SEO, fixing a website that isn’t converting, rebuilding a Shopify store, or creating a clear plan so marketing stops feeling messy or overwhelming. My role is part strategy, part delivery, and part common sense.

Is my project too small?

No. Small project or big project, it’s about the right fit. I’m just as happy helping with a single blog post, audit or SEO tidy-up as I am with a full Shopify build. If it matters to your business, it’s worth a conversation.

Who do you typically work with?

I work mainly with eCommerce and retail businesses, alongside service-based brands and creative founders.

Over the last year, my clients have included fashion and activewear brands, home and lifestyle products, designer pet brands, furniture and paint retailers, florists selling online, beauty and wellness businesses, food and spice sellers, haberdashery and craft shops, as well as B2B consultancies, tech companies and business authors.

Most are small to medium-sized businesses who sell online, or want to sell online properly. They usually come to me when their Shopify site feels clunky, their SEO isn’t pulling its weight, or their marketing has become heavier than it needs to be.

What industries do you specialise in?

My background is strongest in retail and eCommerce, but I also work with service-based and B2B businesses. I don’t use templates. Each business gets an approach that fits how they sell and how their customers actually behave.

Are you a local marketing consultant in South Ayrshire?

Yes. I’m based in South Ayrshire, Scotland, and I work with local businesses as well as clients across the UK and Europe. I understand the importance of local visibility and how customer behaviour differs outside major cities.

Do you work with Scottish and UK-wide businesses?

Yes. I work with businesses across Scotland and the wider UK and the rest of the world! Everything is handled remotely, which keeps things efficient and flexible without compromising on quality. One of my ongoing clients is based in Portgual and I have also worked with a charity in Kenya. 

Can you help with local SEO in South Ayrshire?

Yes. Local SEO is a big part of my work. This includes optimising your website, Google Business Profile, local keywords and content so your business shows up in searches for your area and attracts the right customers.

Do you work with Shopify websites?

Yes. I work extensively with Shopify, including audits, improvements and full builds. My focus is on structure, usability, SEO and content so your store works properly and is easy to manage long-term.

Can you build a Shopify website from scratch?

Yes. I design and build Shopify websites from the ground up for businesses that want to move forward quickly and get it done properly. That includes site structure, page content, SEO basics and a setup that won’t need fixing a few months down the line.

Do you offer SEO services?

Yes. I offer practical SEO support including keyword research, on-page optimisation, content planning, metadata and longer-term strategy. The aim is to attract the right visitors and convert them, not chase rankings for the sake of it.

How long does SEO take to work?

SEO takes time. Some changes can have an impact within weeks, especially on existing sites, but meaningful results usually build over a few months. I’ll always be honest about what’s realistic and where your effort is best spent.

Do you write website and product copy?

Yes. I write website pages, product descriptions, blogs and brand messaging that sound like you and your brand, work for SEO and guide people towards action. Clear, confident and commercial.

Can you audit my website or marketing?

Yes. Audits are often the fastest way to get clarity. I’ll review your website or marketing and tell you what’s working, what isn’t, and what to fix first. No giant to-do lists. Just priorities.

I’m not sure what help I need with marketing. Is that a problem?

Not at all. Many clients start there. We’ll talk through what’s going on in your business, what feels stuck, and where support would make the biggest difference. You don’t need to have it figured out before getting in touch.

Do you offer ongoing marketing support?

Yes. I offer ongoing support for clients who want continuity and momentum. It’s similar to having your own freelance marketing manager who already understands your business and can step in when needed.

What happens if I need extra support outside my package?

That’s fine. I offer flexible add-ons if something extra crops up. We’ll agree what’s needed and how it’s priced before any additional work starts.

What if I have an urgent project?

If something is time-sensitive, get in touch and we’ll see what’s possible. I’ll always be honest about capacity and deadlines rather than overpromising.

Do you charge rush fees for urgent projects?

Sometimes, yes. For tight deadlines that require reshuffling work, a rush fee may apply. This is always discussed upfront so there are no surprises.

How do you charge for your work?

I offer project-based pricing, audits and ongoing support, depending on what’s most appropriate. I’ll recommend the simplest option that gets you where you want to be and I’m clear about costs from the start.

What are your payment terms?

For new clients, projects are split 50% upfront and 50% on completion. The upfront payment secures your place in my schedule and allows work to begin. Ongoing support and retainers are agreed separately with clear terms in place.

Can I cancel an ongoing support or retainer package?

Yes. Ongoing support is flexible. You can cancel with one month’s notice.

What’s the benefit of working with a freelance marketing consultant rather than an agency?

You work directly with me. No account managers. No handovers. No padding. You get senior-level experience, flexibility and tailored support without agency overheads. It’s usually quicker, clearer and more cost-effective.

Do you offer full retail consultancy or corporate support?

Yes. For larger or more complex projects, I can offer wider retail consultancy through my trusted network. That can include operations, customer experience, inventory and strategic support.

Do you offer B2B marketing services?

Yes. Alongside my marketing background, I’ve been a director of an eCommerce business for 10 years, so I understand commercial decision-making and B2B relationships. I support B2B brands with SEO, content and strategy that’s grounded in how businesses actually buy.

How long will it take to see results?

Marketing builds over time. You’ll often see early improvements within the first few months, particularly around clarity and structure, with stronger results building as SEO and content compound.

Do you speak at conferences, events or deliver training?

Yes. I speak at conferences, industry events and business training sessions, both in person and online.

My talks focus on practical marketing, eCommerce, SEO, and the realities of running a business day to day. I also draw on 25 years in marketing and 10 years as an eCommerce director to talk honestly about decision-making, confidence, momentum and what actually helps businesses move forward.

I’m well suited to audiences of founders, small business owners, retailers, eCommerce teams and B2B leaders who want clarity, not hype. Sessions are grounded, engaging and useful, with plenty of real-world examples rather than theory.

If you’re organising an event and want a speaker who’s experienced, approachable and commercially minded, I’m happy to chat.

How do I get started?

Get in touch for an initial conversation. We’ll talk through your goals, challenges and whether working together makes sense. No pressure, just a sensible starting point.

Email me steph@stephbriggs.co.uk or complete the contact form