About me

I’m a freelance web developer from Portsmouth

I’m Jo Loveridge and I’m based in Portsmouth/Southsea in the UK which has a fantastic creative scene. I’m a huge advocate for freelance/home working life and love being involved in my local creative community - so much so I set up Portsmouth Freelancers Meet. In 2020 I won the Sweet FA Freelancer of the Year award for my project Supportsmouth.

Jo with the Freelancer Award 2020 trophy
Bottom TV show

Where it all began

My passion for building websites was sparked when I discovered Geocities back in 2001 (yes, I'm that old).

Once I found there was more to life than gifs of twinkling stars and spinning welcome signs, I moved onto MS FrontPage where I started building websites using tables. My first success was a popular fan website dedicated to the TV show Bottom, which had people from around the world submitting their own content, something I was very proud of as a 16-year-old.

Starting my own company

I went to University and left with a degree in film production and media studies, but never stopped building websites. After University, I set up my company Starboard Media Ltd which did both film work and development. I had my first ever office at Port 57 and spent a lot of time filming amazing conferences and events for companies like Microsoft and Re:develop.

After a few years of doing both film and web, I found my focus as a front-end developer. Since then, I’ve been freelancing for agencies but also take on individual clients and full website projects. My mix of front-end skills and design knowledge gives me a unique perspective on UX and accessibility.

Port 57 Co-working studio

Not just a coder

Whilst I enjoy working from home, I also like to get out and see friendly faces. In 2010, I started a monthly networking group called Portsmouth Freelancers Meet. I’ve also successfully run five PubHack events—my own brand of hackathon set in a pub.

Photo of Jo's cats

Outside of work

I have three cats (Joel, Charlie, and Lyra) who like to “help” around the office and are often featured in my social media photos. I also foster cats for a local charity, who tend to live in my office and join my video calls!

A passion for travel

Since meeting my husband in 2017, we’ve visited 15 countries and counting! I document my travels in my blog.

Hire me.

I am currently available to take on new projects! You can get in touch via email or phone.