We are The Smart Bear
Providing website design and development since 2013
The Smart Bear is a WordPress website design and development company based in Stalybridge, Tameside after moving from Urmston, Trafford in 2024 – covering Manchester and the North West (although as we’re digital we do have National and International customers!).
We pride ourselves on being ethical – never outsourcing to low-waged, non-UK developers to make more money or overselling products that the customer simply doesn’t need – or purposely overcomplicating websites to force the client to return to us (although we love it if they decide to come back to us, of course!).
Supporting small businesses
We create websites to help build businesses grow which engage with, and sell to, the digital generation. Our packages combine website design and development, starting with the basics which can be built upon as and when the business needs to expand. All our websites are built to a professional standard and we build with your future in mind.
Or, if you already have a website, we can help your business thrive and succeed online by improving your current digital presence with a range of tools from Search Engine Optimisation to digital mentoring and development ideas.
Only pay for what you need
We don’t have huge overheads; we’re not a big design agency with lots of staff to pay or a huge office in a big city like Manchester or London. We keep our costs low, by providing only what you need to make you a winner online, from our small office in Tameside. We like to consider ourselves a ‘non-agency agency’ as we have a network of tried and tested subcontractors to call upon to provide you with what your business needs when you need it.
There’s no hard sell and there’s no hidden charges; we’re always clear on our pricing from the start and bring you varied solutions that fit your budget and offer better value for money.
It is our goal to be an ethical business
The Smart Bear Vision
The Smart Bear seeks to create and promote professional websites and provide quality training for small businesses, B Corps, charities, and non-profits with all levels of budget.
We strive to grow our business with honesty and integrity; never selling an unneeded product, and always looking at the long term goals not just short term solutions. We don’t believe in hidden or over-inflated charges.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to help small businesses, charities and not-for-profits improve their websites and search engine ranking by providing affordable, impactful and professional website design and development, maintenance, and training/mentoring services.
Ethos and Values
Use ethical business and marketing practices- Offer products/services to suit the budget
- Be upfront about costs and fees
- Be efficient and timely
- Be trustworthy
- Help the clients’ business grow
- Always look at the bigger picture
- Keep the long-term goal in mind at all times
- Use green business practices where possible
- Offset our carbon emissions through Ecologi
- ❌ Never outsource work to underpaid or undervalued sub-contractors
- ❌ Never over-complicate a website to make money
- ❌ Never use technical terms just to confuse clients
- ❌ Never oversell products or services
- ❌ Never use harassing sales techniques
Use ethical business and marketing practices
Meet The Smart Bear
The founder and owner of The Smart Bear – and author of the book Website planning from Concept to Launch -Suzi Brown
Fun Fact: Suzi used to be a qualified Door Supervisor (a.k.a Bouncer)
Suzi Brown says;
“My mission is to demystify and simplify website design, development and search engine optimisation. As an entrepreneur myself, I understand that getting your business online with a professional website is an important step and yet, as many can’t afford, they’re left to try to do it themselves – which can often work against them and stunt the growth of their company, completely.
I have over a decade experience in the industry, in Wordpress and in social media and business consultancy. I am trained to the highest level, including a qualification in adult training.
I’ve taken the pledge for transparent, responsible, and honest marketing. Learn more about The Ethical Move and join me in our commitment.
I am neuro-diverse and use that to my advantage; I am detail-focused, a problem-solver, and I can be hyper-focused which means I put my all into a project.
So, if you’re looking for consultancy, web design or development, SEO or WordPress training in Manchester that is both professional, ethical, and value for money, get in touch for a free consultation.”
Skills
- WordPress Specialist
- Website Development
- Website Design
- Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
- Training and Small Business Mentoring
Suzi Brown BA (Hons)
Founder, Website Developer and Trainer
Meet our Freelance Team
We didn’t plan for a women-led team, it was just a happy accident!
These are the team members you’re likely to speak with at The Smart Bear.
Shelley provides cover and provides the odd bit of design work whilst Ashleigh helps with admin and liaising with clients.
Shelley Upton
Web Designer and Developer
Fun Fact: I am an avid crafter and make Steampunk inspired jewellery, as well as needle felting Fae creatures like fairies and goblins. I also have an online Belgian Chocolate Shop.
Meet our Associate Team
All these sub-contractors and freelancers are people we’ve used before; we trust them to deliver their services but feel free to contact them directly to ensure you are happy to work with them.
I’m always looking for new trusted suppliers, so get in touch if you’d like to connect.
