Alex Lucke
Q What do you do?
“I’m a self-taught web designer and developer. My specialty is creating Squarespace sites that look like they’re not…Squarespace sites. Additionally, I’ve branched out into Shopify and am having a lot of fun navigating a new platform and diving into the e-comm world.”
With a background in PR and retail, I place a lot of value in a good in-person experience (you should hear me talk about my favorite restaurants) and wanted to translate the most memorable parts through the barrier of a screen. I feel so lucky that my clients trust me with bringing their digital dreams to life.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I lightly studied tech in school while I was studying journalism and advertising. After I graduated, I helped friends and small businesses with sites. It helped me pass the time while I was running a regional retail start up that quickly burnt me out.
After leaving that job, I moved to Chicago and really started pursuing web design. Over the pandemic, I immersed myself in it. I’m really stubborn, a Taurus through and through, and struggled with a pretty large taste gap but relied on the belief that the only way is through.
Now, after almost a decade of building sites, I really feel like I can stand by my work and am creating something I’m incredibly proud of.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
Like I mentioned above, experience is everything to me. Just like in fashion (another passion of mine), you see trends really overwhelm the industry. I pride myself on my ability to lean into what inspires my client beyond websites. I always tell them that we’re creating a feeling and to look for inspiration all around them.
As a result, we can really avoid anything too trendy and lean more personal. My favorite projects are when my clients have a clear vision and trust all the bends in the road during the process.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m leaning into my freelance practice full-time as I recently transitioned away from the agency world, and am finding some balance again. Regarding projects specifically, I’m working on…
- A cool portfolio site for one of my IT girls
- Building out a concept with one of my closest friends and kicking off
- A small film studio website for a dear friend
- Another portfolio for another IT girl
- A Shopify revamp for one of my favorite boutiques
OH and personally…going to the beach more. Of course.
Q What’s your style?
I feel like my style is minimal with pops of personality. In my day to day, I feel most comfortable in a good pair of jeans and a white tee that came out on top after testing a bunch of others. And a flat or flip flop. I really like to style my basics, adding a cool bag / accessory / scarf etc.
I think that this translates into my work well. Lots of white space, playful type, details that make you look twice.
Two sites that really represent my style are for my dear friends Cierra and Anika.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I’m honestly very grateful I get to do this full time and am pouring all of my time into web. I would, however, love to explore copywriting a bit more and tap back into my journalism degree. I also wish I could learn more about branding to offer something a bit more full service. Maybe that will be my next pivot.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
The current job market and having to emphasize that good things really do take time. And networking. I have a tricky time selling myself in a professional setting…
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I would LOVE for someone to schedule calls for me and help me manage my schedule. I work at a vintage store part time and still haven’t totally gotten the balance and flow of both figured out.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
This feels like the cliche answer, but I would tell my younger self to trust herself a bit more. I didn’t pursue some dreams and goals because of my doubt, but feel confident now and like I can pick up the torch.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I would love to learn more about the ins and outs of SEO. Or someone that really feels confident they mastered work/life balance.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking for anything and everything website related.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client is someone who’s creative, communicative and cares about translating their brand as authentically as possible. I’ve been lucky to work with a lot of influencers and small brands and really enjoy working with them. Honestly, it’s kind of a pinch me moment because I’ve been able to work with people I admire and I hope to keep that momentum going.
Q: What is your rate?
My prices can range quite a lot depending on the project, but Squarespace sites typically start at $3k and Shopify theme customizations start around $5k.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Email me at alex@amlucke.com and mention ILC somewhere in the email! I love to set up a quick intro call before I work with anyone to get on the same page, hear more about the project and make sure it’s a good fit.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
I’m SO lucky to have so many talented people in my life. A few would be…
Anika Ladero - Chicago-based wardrobe stylist that brings worlds to life on every shoot
Morgan Yi - an AMAZING NY-based producer with a heart of gold
Morgan Garleff - an incredible graphic designer and vintage store owner
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Less screen time. More time interacting with the world. Spending time with my friends. Making sure I try new things. Shifting my perspective when I can.
This member profile was originally published in September 2025.