Does design/layout give desired message?

[SandyS]

I'm working on a design for a new client and it's an auto repair shop which isn't exactly my nitch:^) I looked at a lot of auto shop sites but nothing inspired me. My goal was to create a feeling that this is a family (husband/wife) owned business, customer service oriented, with professional mechanics and a clean enviornment. Her preference in colors was red and blue, so my second goal was to not have the site look like a US flag.

This is a non working single page, and I would like to know what initial impression you get of the business. I was trying to create a feeling without having to read a lot of text and would appreciate some feedback before I get back to the client tomorrow. Any suggestions or do you see any problems? http://www.ffauto.com/layout.html

[minstrel]

Originally Posted by SandyS

My goal was to create a feeling that this is a family (husband/wife) owned business, customer service oriented, with professional mechanics and a clean environment.

I think the general layout and graphics meets your objectives. However...

Her preference in colors was red and blue, so my second goal was to not have the site look like a US flag.

Yikes! Can you talk her into losing the red? My initial impression was of a cheesy used car sales outfit. Blue and almost ANY other color would be preferable... blue and silver?

[sherwin101]

the layout's neat; yes-- mom and pop operation bent on customer service...

you might want to try making the main "blurb" or tagline an image as opposed to just text... using effects on this image can then help you achieve the look you want even more. ;-)

[cyanide]

I initially wasn't crazy about the red either.
But you used it sparingly as trim and it seems to work pretty good.
I would make the title smaller and different colour.