NAVE HAUS Creative Design Agency
Evan Bell
Evan (spelled backwards as "Nave") started NAVE HAUS after watching his former boss get handcuffed by a website design contract that took days or weeks to make simple changes. He launched his agency with one mantra: give people control over their websites while providing expert design guidance. His passion and empathy for each client's brand dreams has already earned him referrals and a community of like-minded designers.
Read more below.
Evan Bell of NAVE HAUS Creative Design Agency
What inspired you to start your business?
I started Nave Haus after seeing too many people gatekept from making changes to their own websites. I’ve always loved design — from interiors to graphics — and wanted to create something that gave people more freedom and control over their online presence.
The name NAVE is actually my name spelled backward — a small, unapologetic detail that felt perfect for a brand built on creativity and individuality.
When I worked at an interior design firm, I watched my boss struggle with a restrictive website contract that required every small update to go through a support ticket, sometimes taking weeks. That experience inspired my mission: to help business owners take back control of their websites while providing thoughtful design guidance along the way.
What were your biggest fears or doubts before taking the leap — and what gave you the courage to go for it?
At first, I worried about taking too long on projects, making mistakes, or clients changing direction mid-design. But over time, I realized I’d learned a lot from past experiences — especially about what not to do when leading or communicating. Those lessons shaped the kind of business I want to run: one rooted in empathy, transparency, and honesty. When clients see how passionate I am about their success, it gives me the courage to keep growing.
What’s been your biggest win and biggest challenge in your first year?
The biggest challenge has been setting up systems and deciding what tools to use — thankfully, I found Dubsado early on and am already integrating it into NAVE HAUS. My biggest win has been connecting with fellow designers who share my values and understand the realities of starting something new. Finding that community reminded me that I belong in this space.
What does success look like to you, and what type of impact are you hoping to make?
To me, success is multifaceted — it’s seeing a client light up when their website launches, hearing that they’ve referred me to a friend, or knowing I’ve helped them feel confident about their brand. I hope to build a business that makes great design accessible and leaves every client feeling supported, understood, and proud of what they’ve created.
Why do you believe people should bet on themselves and take the leap to start a business doing what they love?
Because self-doubt can be loud. We all have that inner voice saying we’re not ready or not enough — but betting on yourself is about quieting that voice and trusting your purpose. When you surround yourself with people who lift you up, you realize you’re more capable than you think.
If chosen for this grant, how would it help you continue building your business?
This grant would mean everything. It would help me set up strong systems early on, get expert advice, and build a process that makes the client experience seamless and professional. It would give NAVE HAUS the jumpstart I’ve always dreamed of — helping me grow faster, smarter, and with purpose.
About NAVE HAUS Creative Design Agency
NAVE HAUS Creative Design Agency helps small businesses take control of their websites and brands through accessible, intentional design — all built on empathy, creativity, and collaboration.
Stay connected
Website: www.navehaus.co
Instagram: @navehaus.co