From a blog post discussing previous work we’ve completed for the Chopra Center in LaCosta, Father Daniel called from Cupertino (SEO really works!). He runs the Legionary Retreat House, a spiritual respite for Catholics who wish to enrich their faith practice. For a long time, the retreat center struggled with their bookings and keeping their scheduled retreats current. Reservations took many back-office steps that just wasn’t productive. With hopes to grow the center and increase bookings, he contracted with Studio 2055 to create a new site.
We instantly got to work on a UI that would help them with online bookings and credit card processing and on a CMS that would allow them to keep the site updated. Of course, compelling design was at the top of our list.
Having worked with similar clients, we tapped into fifteen years of experience in hospitality and cause marketing. We grew to know the LRH staff and understand their concerns. In Cupertino, we met with the retreat leaders, photographed the center and surrounds, and outlined the website functions.
The scope of the project included fresh branding, new content, an online registration system and SEO integration. To offset the volunteer staff’s workload, the website needed to perform the functions of sales and registration, including e-commerce and email automation.
Design. The project’s plan began with photos of the center’s facility and peaceful surroundings. A rich color palette was chosen to identify with the target audience and the nature of the retreats. A sense of welcome and comfort was achieved by using warm tones and appropriately inviting photographs.
Website. It was imperative that the staff be able to update the site frequently and easily. From experience, we recommended a WordPress platform. The WP content management system easily integrates the event registration program and e-commerce, making updates and management a simple task for the staff.
User Experience. Keeping in mind user experience, the navigation guides the visitor through the current schedule and on to registration (call-to-action). The content is clear and concise so all users quickly receive the latest retreat offerings. The style of the site and vivid, colorful photos evoke the welcoming, serene nature of the center.
Training. For the retreat staff, we provided a comprehensive how-to tutorial that included instructions on updating and changing content throughout the website. As staff members come and go, the tutorial will stay with the site for anyone to update and operate.
Results. The new Legionary Retreat House website increased bookings immediately after the launch date. In just three months, the site is well-received by new visitors.
