Inspiring Conversations with Aja Miyamoto of Sakura Web + SEO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aja Miyamoto.

Hi Aja, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in an entrepreneurial environment, so building something of my own has always felt natural. My mom owned a children’s consignment shop, and my dad worked with and repaired computers, so I was surrounded by both creativity and problem-solving from a young age.

My path wasn’t linear. I started in business and pre-law, worked at a law firm, and eventually found my way back to what I’ve always loved most—writing, storytelling, and communication. I graduated with a degree in Journalism from The Ohio State University, and that’s where everything began to click. I realized how powerful it is to connect strategy with communication.

I started my first business in 2018, and over time, it evolved into what is now Sakura Web + SEO. What began as website design quickly expanded into something much more comprehensive. I saw that local businesses, especially in the beauty industry, didn’t just need a beautiful website—they needed a connected digital presence that truly supports how their businesses run and grow day to day.

With over 10 years of experience in web and digital marketing, I’ve built more than 100 websites and developed strategies that help businesses grow in a way that feels both intentional and sustainable.

Today, I work closely with salon and spa owners to build websites, develop SEO strategies, and implement digital systems that align with both their brand and their operations. I’ve had the opportunity to work with businesses of all sizes across the world, but I’ve always felt a strong connection to local, service-based businesses and helping them thrive.

More recently, I’ve been building Etchline, which focuses on digital business cards and NFC tap tools that rethink how we connect and share information in a more intentional, modern way.

At the core of everything I do is a balance of strategy and care. I genuinely love helping people build something meaningful while creating systems that bring more clarity, growth, and freedom to their business.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, and I don’t think it’s meant to be. A lot of the challenges I’ve faced have come down to working with and communicating across so many different types of people, personalities, and expectations. That’s something you can’t fully prepare for; you learn it in real time.

In the early years, especially, I took a lot of things personally. When something didn’t go as planned or when communication broke down, it felt heavier than it needed to be. Over time, I’ve learned how important it is to take a step back, give things space, and come back with a clearer perspective.

Balance has been a big lesson, too. When you’re building something you care about, it’s easy to stay in it constantly. But some of the best decisions I’ve made have come from walking away for a moment, taking a breather, and returning with fresh eyes.

I’ve also learned that challenges tend to come back around in different forms until you really understand how to navigate them. Each experience builds on the last, and you start to respond instead of react.

Challenges have shaped how I lead, communicate, and support my clients. There’s a lot more clarity, patience, and confidence now than there was at the beginning; the experience is something I’m really grateful for and do not take lightly.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m the founder of Sakura Web + SEO, where I work closely with salon and spa owners to build websites, develop SEO strategies, and implement digital systems that actually support how their businesses operate and grow.

What I specialize in is going beyond just design. I focus on creating connected digital experiences where your website, booking system, SEO, and marketing work together to drive real results such as bookings, revenue, and client retention.

I am especially known for my work in the beauty industry and for integrating platforms like Phorest and Boulevard into a seamless online experience for salons and spas. My goal is always to make things feel simple, clear, and aligned for my clients, not overwhelming.

What sets me apart is how personal and collaborative the process is. I work very closely with my clients and their teams, and I take the time to understand how their business actually runs day to day. From there, I build strategies and systems that fit them, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of creating something that feels both strategic and human. Sakura is rooted in care, attention to detail, and intention, while still being highly results-driven. It’s important to me that clients not only see growth but also feel supported and confident in their digital presence.

Overall, I want people to know that your website and digital presence should work for you. It should feel like an extension of your business, not something you’re constantly trying to keep up with. When everything is aligned, it creates more clarity, better client experiences, and more freedom as a business owner.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to truly care about what you do.

When you care, it shows in everything: your work, your communication, your attention to detail, and how you show up for people. It creates a level of intention that you can’t fake.

At the same time, I’ve learned that caring doesn’t mean taking everything personally. It’s about being invested in the outcome, while still having the awareness and balance to step back, learn, and keep moving forward.

The combination of genuine care and a clear perspective has shaped how I approach my work and build relationships in business.

Pricing:

• Website Design Projects: Starting at $2,500+ depending on scope, features, and integrations
• Monthly Growth Plans: Typically $1,250–$1,500/month for ongoing website management, SEO, and marketing support
• VIP Strategy Days: Half and full-day intensives starting at $500 for focused strategy and implementation
• Consulting Sessions: $199/hour for one-on-one guidance and support

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sakurawebdesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sakurawebdesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sakurawebseo
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aja-miyamoto-03b395108/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/aja.miyamoto/