Deanna Rivera, Author at UplinkSpyder

Website Redesign for HIV Alliance

by Deanna Rivera | Mar 5, 2025 | Content Creation, Website Design

We’re excited to announce the launch of the new HIV Alliance website! This website redesign makes it easier than ever for individuals to access vital healthcare and prevention resources while learning more about the incredible work HIV Alliance does in communities across Oregon.

photo of a awareness booth from website redesign for HIV Alliance

Using your own photos on your website helps create an authentic, trustworthy, and memorable experience for visitors. Unlike stock images, which can feel impersonal and overused, original photos showcase your unique brand, team, products, and services in a way that truly represents who you are. Custom imagery builds credibility and connection, helping potential customers see the real people behind your business. It also enhances SEO, as original images can be optimized for search engines, giving your site a competitive edge. While stock photos may be a quick fix, original photography (and video!) ensures your website stands out and tells your story in the most genuine way possible.

mockup of website redesign for HIV alliance

The new website is designed to be clear, user-friendly, and informative. Visitors can easily find resources on treatment options, prevention strategies like PrEP and PEP, harm reduction programs, and behavioral health services. It also serves as a hub for education initiatives, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved through volunteering or donations.

This website redesign represents an important step in making essential health information and services more accessible to those who need them most. Whether you or someone you know is looking for support, or you want to contribute to this important cause, the new site makes it easy to take action.

Visit HIV Alliance today to explore the new platform, learn more, and find out how you can support HIV Alliance in their mission to create healthier communities.

Explore HIV Alliance

Need more tips? Contact one of your Friendly Neighborhood Spyders.

Local Search Marketing Tips

by Deanna Rivera | Feb 25, 2025 | Internet Marketing, Marketing, Search Engine Optimization

If you took our advice last week, you’ve already started keeping your website fresh with updated content—something both visitors and search engines appreciate. You’ve ensured your brand stays consistent across your site, reinforcing trust and recognition. And best of all, you’ve learned how to boost your site’s SEO without needing an expert. This week, we’re giving you three new local search marketing tips that will help you once that foundation is established!

graphic of some screens displaying SEO content strategy

Your customers love YOU — not stock images.

Using your own photos on your website helps create an authentic, trustworthy, and memorable experience for visitors. Unlike stock images, which can feel impersonal and overused, original photos showcase your unique brand, team, products, and services in a way that truly represents who you are. Custom imagery builds credibility and connection, helping potential customers see the real people behind your business. It also enhances SEO, as original images can be optimized for search engines, giving your site a competitive edge. While stock photos may be a quick fix, original photography (and video!) ensures your website stands out and tells your story in the most genuine way possible.

Your customers love communicating with you — in lots of ways.

Providing multiple ways to contact your small business—such as phone, chat, text, contact forms, and social media—ensures that customers can reach you in the way that’s most convenient for them. Some prefer a quick call, while others may feel more comfortable sending an email or messaging through social media. A variety of contact options builds trust, improves customer experience, and increases the chances of turning inquiries into sales. Making it easy to connect shows that you’re accessible, responsive, and ready to help.

Search engines crave authority!

Search engines prioritize websites that demonstrate authority and provide valuable, educational content. When your site offers insightful, well-researched information, it builds trust with both users and search engines, improving your rankings. Incorporating local search marketing strategies—such as creating content tailored to your region or targeting location-based keywords—can further enhance your visibility in local search results. One effective way to establish authority is through a blog that answers common customer questions. For example, if you run a home renovation business, publishing guides on topics like “How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home” or “5 Signs Your Roof Needs Repairs” positions you as an expert while also improving SEO. By consistently educating visitors, you not only attract more traffic but also establish credibility in your industry.

Need more tips? Contact one of your Friendly Neighborhood Spyders.

SEO Content Strategy for Your Website

by Deanna Rivera | Feb 18, 2025 | Internet Marketing, Search Engine Optimization

February is flying by, but there’s still time to show your website some love! Here are three ways to give it the attention it deserves. The best part? A well-loved website gives back—bringing in new customers, enhancing your reputation, and building trust with every visitor. Whether you’re refreshing design elements or refining your SEO Content Strategy, even small improvements can make a big impact.

Content Love:

Your website should never remain static. Fresh content is a key factor in Google’s search rankings and keeps visitors engaged. Regularly update your site with new work examples, informative articles, case studies, and reviews of aligned businesses. Have a strategy for growth and review your content periodically. Don’t let outdated information frustrate potential customers—ensure your hours, services, and details are always accurate so visitors get the right impression every time they stop by. Consider how these efforts fit into your broader SEO Content Strategy for long-term results.

Branding Love:

Did you know that consistency is one of the most important factors in building a recognizable brand? You may not have the massive marketing budgets of Nike or Coca-Cola, but you can still make a big impact by being consistent. Use the same fonts, colors, and imagery across your website and extend that look to your emails, storefront, and marketing materials. A cohesive brand experience builds trust with prospects and clients, making every marketing effort more effective and maximizing your investment.

SEO Love:

Not every SEO strategy requires an SEO expert. One simple SEO strategy is to get other websites to link to yours. These backlinks improve your chances of being found online. Small businesses can build backlinks by partnering with local businesses, joining organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, and writing guest posts for industry blogs. You can also earn links by sponsoring events, getting blogger reviews, and creating shareable content like guides or infographics.

Ready to show your website some love? Whether you’re updating content, refining your branding, or building a stronger SEO Content Strategy, every step you take makes a difference. If you need help bringing it all together, we’re here for you.

UplinkSpyder Email Security Alert!

by Deanna Rivera | Feb 11, 2025 | Cybersecuirty

Your security Spyders want to bring a new scam to your attention that’s been making the rounds. Cybercriminals are using Google Drive notifications to trick people into clicking malicious links, disguising their scam as shared documents or comments. These messages may seem legitimate since they come from Google, but they contain harmful links designed to steal your information. It might be time to rethink your email security.

What to Do If You Receive One of These Emails:

Do NOT click any links in the email. Even if it looks legitimate, avoid interacting with it.

Mark the email as phishing in your inbox to help Google detect and block similar scams. In Gmail, open the email, click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top right, and select “Report phishing.”

Go to Google Drive directly (https://drive.google.com) to check if an unknown document has been shared with you. If you see a suspicious document, right-click it and select “Remove” to delete it from your drive.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Google account for added email security.

How to Stay Safe

Always verify shared documents directly in Google Drive, not through email links.

Be cautious of unexpected sharing notifications from unknown senders.

If you’re ever unsure, reach out to the sender through another method to confirm legitimacy.

Scammers are getting more creative, but with awareness and caution, we can stay ahead of them. Feel free to share this with friends, family, or colleagues to help keep everyone safe online.

Stay vigilant and stay safe!

Best,
All of us at UplinkSpyder

We Think Our Clients Are Pretty Sweet

by Deanna Rivera | Feb 4, 2025 | Marketing, Strategy

At the end of last year, our clients Kelly and Chad Prusz, owners of O’ My Mini Donuts and SweetBay Shave Ice, took an exciting step and moved into their first-ever “brick and mortar” location at 460 Willamette Street (5th & Willamette) in Eugene. Their new space is absolutely charming, nestled in one of the oldest buildings in Eugene, with plenty of nearby parking for convenience. It’s always inspiring to see local businesses grow, and their story is a perfect example of how passion and perseverance can turn dreams into reality.

Now, they can serve their delicious treats in a cozy, warm location with indoor seating—but that’s not all. This move sparked something truly amazing…

SweetBay is lovingly named after their oldest daughter, Bailey (aka “Bay”). Kelly and Chad initially opened their first food truck as a way to provide their kids with an income during high school and college. However, over the past 10 years, what started as a single food truck has grown into something much bigger for their entire family.

During that time, they’ve expanded their business, employing not only their own kids but also the kids of friends—including my son, Levi. But that’s not where the story ends…

At the same time O’My Mini Donuts and SweetBay Shave Ice moved to their new location, Bailey decided to chase one of her long-time dreams. With the support of her family and friends, she opened Daffodil Books & Gifts, a Romantasy bookstore in the space right next to the restaurant.

The world Bailey has created is nothing short of magical. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to another place. Even if you’re not familiar with or a fan of Romantasy books, the experience at Daffodil Books is something you don’t want to miss. Every detail of the space is thoughtfully designed and truly enchanting.

Don’t just take our word for it—check out this article recently published about Daffodil Books. And keep in mind, this incredible press comes after being open for just three months!

Daffodil Books & Gifts is also home to Chapter and Steam, a charming coffee shop run by Kelly and Chad’s son, Chase, and his long-time girlfriend. Picture yourself sipping a rich hot chocolate, enjoying a mini donut, and diving into a good book, all while surrounded by cozy elegance and seated next to a crackling fireplace. It’s cozy, eclectic, and undeniably inspiring—a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss.

And there’s even more to discover! This historic building is full of surprises, with a couple of “in-between spaces” that are constantly evolving. One of the latest additions is a mocktail bar. Every visit brings something new, and I can’t wait to see what they dream up next!

Kelly’s motto for O’My Mini Donuts has always been “Enjoy The Little Things.” But we think it’s time to celebrate just how big of a deal this business truly is. Kelly and Chad have built something extraordinary—not only elevating their own lives but also creating opportunities for their children and friends. Their success is a testament to the strength of local businesses and the impact they have on the community.

As a friend and a client, I’ve seen firsthand how much hard work, dedication, and perseverance it has taken to reach this point. I couldn’t be more excited to see it all paying off! And I can’t wait to see what amazing things come next for their family and these incredible local businesses.