I could really use some help making a website.

It is in no way related to Star Wars or RPing, but I know we've got some people here that know a good deal about web pages. It's a website for a local band where I live who I am good friends with.

If you're willing to help me please respond here or IM me at hyferaul86.

I don't know much about web designing, but I could sell you some Cree'Ar porn to put on it.

Kas, Gash, Ahnk, etc would be the best bet.

www.echoecho.com

Good site for basic code facts.

I am familiar with basic HTML but was just hoping I could get somone like Zell or Gash to help actually make it look half way professional.

Do you have Microsoft Publisher? Or Front Page? I don't remember which one helps you to design web pages.

I'd say go to Kas, not only is he good at it, he gets paid to do it by other people as well....

I don't have access to AIM at the moment, but if you want to go with email you could reach me at titus at centerstation dot net. Or we could just post here.

The biggest thing for achieving 'professionalism' would be the colors. Find a palate of three to four colors that work well together, and use them consistently thorough out the site. I like going with one or two bold colors for headers, titles, etc. I try keep the rest of the site restricted to two or three more laid back and integrated colors, something readable for text, a easy-on-the-eyes background, and another color for borders and other separation junk (as well as text hyperlinks).

Second point to keep in mind is consistency. Find a look (colors, text formatting, design, etc) and keep with it throughout the entire site.

Thirdly, think user-friendly. Keep the navigation easy to use, make the site using ‘older’ technology (HTML 4.0 and CSS2 is what I use). That way the majority of people can see the site in all its glory. Keep the images down, eg, think creatively. Just because you can make the entire site in photoshop doesn’t mean you should. Clever use of background images, as well as CSS’s positioning power can reduce the size of the page dramatically, making it more inviting for dial-up users, who are still in the majority. Also, remember, search engines can’t read text that’s in an image.

Another thing, use the validator, and use it often! If your code validates, the chances that it will display correctly on the majority of browsers increases tenfold. If you're having a problem with your code, use the validator. It's a very helpful tool.

validator.w3.org/

As a side note, sites for bands are a little more challenging, because bands tend to want something abstract, or really 'cool'. What would work for a blog, or a commercial company’s site typically won't do for a starting indie band. It'll probably involve more imagery, and tacky effects. Try looking around, find a site they like, and then use elements from their design in yours (don't copy though, that's low.)