Redesign and ReBuild
Marketplace

In 2020, I took on the challenge of redesigning and rebuilding Spouse-ly, a marketplace dedicated to supporting military and first responder families. The original site was built on WordPress, but it was in poor shape, with a problematic database and ineffective multi-vendor functionality. My mission was to transform Spouse-ly into a reliable, user-friendly platform that could effectively serve its growing community.

Redesign and Rebuild: I started by completely overhauling the site’s user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). The redesign focused on creating a clean, modern, and responsive design that aligns with Spouse-ly’s mission. I ensured that the platform was accessible and visually appealing across all devices, providing users with an intuitive and engaging experience.

Database Cleanup and Reconfiguration: One of the significant challenges was addressing the issues with the existing database. I meticulously cleaned up and reconfigured the database to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This was a critical step in stabilizing the platform and preparing it for the new functionalities.

Tech Stack and Tools: The website was built on WordPress, with WooCommerce as the foundation for its e-commerce capabilities. Recognizing the limitations of the original multi-vendor plugin, I transitioned the platform to the Dokan Multi-Vendor plugin. This provided a more robust and scalable solution for managing vendors and their products. I also set up everything necessary for the e-commerce functionality, including the shopping cart, product listings, and checkout process.

Stripe Integration and Vendor Setup: To empower Spouse-ly’s vendors, I integrated Stripe as the payment gateway, enabling sellers to easily set up their stores and manage transactions. This setup included configuring automated payments, setting up commission structures, and ensuring a seamless process for both vendors and customers.

Integrations and Workflow: In addition to the multi-vendor setup, I integrated various plugins to enhance site performance, such as WP Rocket for caching and speed optimization, and Yoast SEO to improve search engine visibility. The workflow was optimized to streamline vendor management, product listings, and order processing, making it easier for the Spouse-ly team and vendors to manage their operations.

The result is a fully revamped Spouse-ly platform that not only looks great but also functions at a high level. The new site is now a robust and efficient marketplace, successfully supporting the mission of connecting military and first responder families with products and services.