This is a very fascinating discussion. I've been struggling over this very question for a while. I just finished my site design, and I'm afraid it might look too flashy to be an amateur site, run and built by me. I want to communicate that I'm approachable and "attainable" as was mentioned earlier in this post. Anyone care to give me an opinion on this? My URL is:
http://www.amylockheart.com
Furrygirl... I hear your argument completely about the "militant amateur" folk. I think it's gonna be really tough to be polished enough to compete in a very glossy industry, but 'down-home' enough to appeal to guys who thrive on getting to know the girl on the other side.