[trinovantes]

I'm pretty sure the (good) custom web design agencies just rely on word-of-mouth for new work. I used to intern at one back in my undergrad that does what you described "sit down with me and plan something specific out". I just tried and literally could not find them on Google with generic web design keywords + city name. I had to use their actual name before being able to find them.

[ShrimpCocktail]

At least I take comfort in knowing that it's not all just down to my searching ability! Out of curiosity, would your previous employer work around their client's specific requests (e.g. use Node in the backend? Use X database?).

[learningwebdev]

I think that good web developers and agencies can probably really pick and choose their clients as well, and they probably don't like to waste time entertaining numerous "potential" clients who after 3 hours of listing all the custom features they'll require, look shocked and disgusted when presented with a cost estimate.

[ShrimpCocktail]

Yes, I imagine you're spot on there!

[trinovantes]

Yup, they're pretty flexible with client requests. I once had to implement a backend with SOAP protocol support for a very niche client