Hello, loves and merry Christmas.
You know what's wild? I'm sitting here realising it's already Christmas and I've somehow managed to wrap up my first full year running Made by Katie. It’s been a year full of incredible milestones, healing, growth, and meeting the most incredible people along the way. I just wanted to take a moment to reflect on the journey so far, and share a little more about myself and why this year has been so special.
For those who don’t know me, I’m Katie Di Feliciantonio—mum to a very lively 4-year-old, and, let’s just say, a woman who has spent more years working with charities and not-for-profits than I care to admit (and still loving every minute of it!).
For the longest time, I was on the other side of the table—working within charities, navigating the challenges of limited resources and the always-tight budgets. So I understand the vital work you do, the heart and soul you pour into your cause, and just how much is asked of you every day. But I also know how hard it can be, especially when you’re juggling it all.
That’s why I made the leap to work with charities instead of just for them. Now, I design and build beautiful, affordable websites that truly reflect your organisation’s values and mission. I create websites that just feel like you—where your donors, supporters, and team can connect, trust, and grow with you. I also happen to be a pretty good content copywriter, so I can help with your messaging too.
This year has been a whirlwind of creativity and learning! I’ve built six websites (including my own!), ventured into video-making, and designed everything from social media posts to posters and roller banners. I’m even diving into the world of regular newsletters now.
But it hasn’t just been about honing technical skills or figuring out the joys of tax returns (spoiler: not so joyful). Along the way, I’ve learned about topics that truly matter like maternal mortality, DIPG, and Febrile Infection-Related Epilepsy Syndrome.
But while I love building websites, the best part of this past year has been something I never expected: the work-life balance it’s given me. You know, the thing we all dream about but often feel is impossible to achieve.
Because of the flexibility of freelancing, I’ve been able to do so much more than just work. I’ve been there for the little moments—like attending my daughter’s Christmas play, being able to go to the dentist without stressing over my schedule, and making sure I was there for every cough and cold my daughter had during her first year of big-girl school.
But there’s more. Freelancing also gave me the precious gift of time when I needed it most. A week at my grandmother’s bedside, holding her hand before she passed away. That week, in particular, reminded me how important this work-life balance really is. It’s not just about avoiding burnout—it’s about cherishing the moments that truly matter.
This year also marked a huge personal milestone for me: I celebrated my 10-year wedding anniversary with my amazing husband. He has been my rock throughout this journey. Without his unfailing support and belief in me, I wouldn’t be able to do the work I do. He’s been my cheerleader from the very beginning and, to be honest, it’s his encouragement that gave me the confidence to take this leap into freelancing.
I’ve been able to enjoy time with my daughter, family, and friends, keep my work fulfilling and meaningful, and still show up for the charities I really care about—like Women & Children First, Hackney Children & Baby Bank, Abbie’s Army, Black Girls Do Run UK and Frome Birth Talk. It’s not always easy, but this year has shown me that it’s all about finding the right rhythm. And that’s exactly what I’ve done this year—built a business that allows me to serve the causes I’m passionate about and also have the time I need to be present for the people I love.
As I look back on everything this year has brought, I can’t help but feel incredibly grateful. Working with amazing charities, helping them make a real impact, and being able to do it all in a way that fits around my family life has been so rewarding.
I’m also excited for what’s to come! There’s still so much more to do, and I’m ready to dive into another year of working with incredible causes, creating beautiful websites that truly make a difference, and continuing to balance work and life in a way that feels right.
I’ll be kicking off the new year by launching the gorgeous new website for the wonderful team at Frome Birth Talk—so stay tuned for that!
A massive thank you to the incredible people who took a chance on me after a cold call from a slightly crazy woman! Mark at Women & Children First, Amanda at Abbie’s Army, Tasha (and all the amazing ladies) at Black Girls Do Run UK, the team at Hackney Children & Baby Bank, and Lucy from Frome Birth Talk—you’ve made this journey so rewarding. You’re the reason I love what I do, and working with you has truly been good for the soul. I feel so lucky to have such amazing clients!
So, thank you for being part of this brilliant journey. Whether you’ve worked with me this year, followed me on social, signed up to my newsletter or are just starting to explore what I do, I’m grateful to be part of your mission. If you’re ready for your own new website in the new year, let’s chat. I can’t wait to see what we can build together!