How Do I Create  HTML Email Templates?

HTML Email Templates allow you to design visually rich, branded emails that display consistently across devices and email clients. In cirQulate, you can create HTML email templates using a drag-and-drop builder, without needing coding knowledge. This article explains how to build, customize, and save HTML email templates for use in your campaigns.

What Is an HTML Email Template?

An HTML email template is a reusable email layout built with structured elements such as headers, images, text, buttons, and dividers. These templates ensure consistent branding and formatting across all your email campaigns.

In cirQulate, HTML templates are used as the foundation for email campaigns and can be edited or reused at any time.

Accessing the Template Builder

To create an HTML email template:

1. Log in to cirQQle Manager at manage.cirqqles.com

2. Open cirQulate from the left navigation menu

3. Click Templates from the left navigation menu and select Email Template.
   
4. Click New Email Template
   
   This opens the HTML email drag-and-drop editor.
   

Building Your HTML Email Template

The template builder uses visual content blocks that can be dragged into your layout.

Common Email Blocks

• Header – Add your logo or title

• Text – Insert formatted text

• Image – Upload or select images from the Media Library

• Button – Add call-to-action buttons

• Divider – Separate content sections

• Spacer – Control layout spacing

Drag elements into the canvas and arrange them to create your desired layout.

Customizing Your Template

Text & Formatting

• Edit text directly inside text blocks

• Adjust font size, color, and alignment

• Use headings for structure and readability

Images

• Upload images or select from the Media Library

• Resize and align images within blocks

• Always use optimized images for faster loading

Buttons & Links

• Add buttons for clear calls to action

• Link buttons to websites, landing pages, or promotions

• Use concise, action-oriented text (e.g., Shop Now, Learn More)

Adding a Footer

Email templates automatically support footers for compliance and branding.

• Select a saved Email Footer when using the template in a campaign

• Footers typically include business details and unsubscribe information

• Footers help ensure emails meet compliance requirements

Previewing and Testing Your Template

Before saving your template:

1. Use the Preview option to see desktop and mobile views

2. Check spacing, alignment, and image loading

3. Confirm links and buttons function correctly

Testing your template early helps prevent display issues during campaigns.

Saving Your HTML Email Template

Once your design is complete:

1. Click Save Template

2. Name your template clearly (e.g., Monthly Newsletter, Promo Email)

3. Confirm the template type is Email

Your template will now be available when creating campaigns.

Best Practices for HTML Email Templates

• Keep layouts simple and mobile-friendly

• Use clear headings and short paragraphs

• Avoid excessive images without supporting text

• Include one primary call to action

• Always test before sending campaigns

Next Steps

After creating your HTML email template, you can:

• Use it when building a campaign

• Send test emails to verify display

• Track performance using Analytics

Following a consistent template strategy helps improve engagement and saves time when launching new campaigns.

For help understanding how templates function with cirQulate, see: How to Set Up cirQulate.