# Overview

### Use An Existing Email Template From Your ESP

Bring your existing Marketo, Pardot, Eloqua, or other ESP template to FeedOtter, and we’ll handle the setup. Learn how to correctly download your pre-existing template from your ESP here:

{% content-ref url="/pages/o9kJDMpZhPKWRQ08e98E" %}
[Use an ESP Template](/custom-template-guide/overview/use-an-esp-template.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Hire A Designer/Developer to Build a New Design

No in-house designer? We recommend working with a trusted email design service, freelance platform, or agency experienced in building email templates. Explore recommended resources here:

{% content-ref url="/pages/lpxQSWiYkMcy3lG7mNtE" %}
[Hire/Use a Designer](/custom-template-guide/overview/hire-use-a-designer.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Use A Quality Email Builder Tool

Explore tools and resources (including free options) to help you get started from scratch. Find helpful resources here:

{% content-ref url="/pages/In0dE5OXT6SRKAwhctzM" %}
[Use a Free Email Builder](/custom-template-guide/overview/use-a-free-email-builder.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

### Code Your Own

If you prefer a fully hands-on approach, you can build your own HTML template and apply FeedOtter-specific tokens directly. This option is ideal for advanced users who want maximum control over their design and setup. Learn how to get started here:

{% content-ref url="/pages/j15KUnMJPcau2i6CAcBJ" %}
[FeedOtter Template Basics](/set-up-your-own-template/feedotter-template-basics.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% hint style="info" %}

### The Importance of a Quality Email Newsletter Template

At FeedOtter, we’re excited to help you transform your newsletter process. A large part of this is the email template—whether you design your own in your ESP, work with an email developer, or use one of our free templates, you have plenty of options to create a custom template that fits your brand. No matter which path you choose, the most important step is having a **clean, well-coded HTML template that passes a rendering test (such as Litmus)**. Once you have that, our team will handle the setup and ensure it works seamlessly within FeedOtter.
{% endhint %}


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