Here's a Switch: An Ad-Free Site Launch

Rocketworks Inc. launched thePlunge.com, calling it the first in its suite of ad-free commercial Web sites.

thePlunge.com lets people create Web sites for a broad range of events like birthdays, barbecues, reunions, bar mitzvahs and weddings, said Guy Wolcott, the 27-year old president and CEO.

“thePlunge.com is not about ad sales or selling merchandise. While it exists completely online, it provides real value to people in a noise-free environment,” Wolcott said.

Prices for users appear to be in the $10 to $45 range.

thePlunge.com features tools for creating sites that help people plan and manage every aspect of a small or large event and includes a unique “theme” catalog that allows users to design a site that reflects their own personal style and the spirit of their event.

“There is a notion on the Web that people will put up with anything to keep things free,” said Wolcott. “But there is a limit. We believe people don’t want to subject friends and family to a barrage of marketing efforts. We have an alternative.”

Founded in 1996, Rocketworks designs, builds, hosts and maintains Web sites for clients including MSBET (a joint venture of Microsoft and Black Entertainment Television), the National Medical Association, and the Magic Johnson Foundation.