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Custom Functionality

This section highlights tailored backend solutions that improve user interaction and site performance. By using custom PHP, I created features beyond the limitations of standard plugins or themes. The My Account page and login system were customized to better match user needs and branding.

I also developed unique pricing options and email templates, ensuring the experience feels personalized from login to checkout. These enhancements allow the website to be more flexible and user-focused.

Auto-Delete Product Images When Product Is Deleted

To optimize backend performance and prevent unused media from building up, I developed a custom PHP function that automatically deletes a product's featured image and gallery images when the product is removed from WooCommerce. This ensures that the media library stays organized, and server storage isn’t wasted on images no longer linked to active listings.

This functionality is particularly useful for stores that manage a high volume of products or rotate inventory frequently. Instead of manually cleaning up unused media files, the process is now automatic—improving the overall efficiency and cleanliness of the WordPress environment.

Redirect Logged-Out Users to Login Before Checkout

I implemented a login enforcement mechanism to improve the checkout flow and customer account management. If a user attempts to access the cart or checkout page while logged out, they’re automatically redirected to the login page. This ensures that only registered and logged-in users can complete purchases, which helps store owners manage customer data and order tracking more effectively.

Additionally, the same logic applies when a user tries to add a product to the cart via AJAX while not logged in. This encourages users to create an account or log in first, reducing cart abandonment and keeping customer communication channels more reliable after checkout. The redirection supports better user experience by guiding visitors toward the appropriate flow based on their login status.

Show “PM for more info” Instead of Price for Selected Products

As per the store owner’s request, I customized the WooCommerce product price display to show “PM for more info” for selected product categories—specifically for branded costumes and related items. This approach was necessary because the pricing of these items can change daily based on currency exchange rates and the supplier’s latest quotes. By removing the static price, customers are instead encouraged to contact the store directly for accurate and updated pricing.

This solution provides flexibility for the store while avoiding customer confusion or misinformation due to fluctuating costs. It also reduces the need for constant manual price updates on the website. By targeting specific product categories only, the rest of the store retains normal pricing behavior, ensuring the change remains focused and user-friendly.

The feature works on specific product categories only.

Admin Access Control

Secured Login URL with WPS Hide Login Plugin

To improve website security and prevent unauthorized access attempts, I implemented the WPS Hide Login plugin to change the default WordPress login URL. Instead of allowing users to access the standard /wp-admin or /wp-login.php paths, this plugin hides the admin login page and replaces it with a custom URL known only to the site owner and authorized users.

This extra layer of protection helps reduce bot attacks and login spam, which are common on WordPress sites using the default paths. By limiting exposure of the admin area, I ensured a more secure environment for managing the site, especially important for e-commerce websites that handle sensitive customer and order data.

Integrated Live Chat Support

Facebook Live Chat Integration with Zotabox

To make customer support more accessible and responsive, I integrated the Facebook Live Chat feature using the Zotabox plugin. This allowed us to add a real-time chat widget directly on the website, connected to the store’s Facebook Page. It helps customers reach out instantly without needing to leave the site or search for contact details.

Since many of our products require direct inquiry before ordering—especially those with variable pricing—this feature plays a key role in the shopping experience. By placing the chat window on every page, we reduced barriers for customer communication and made it easier for visitors to ask questions, confirm details, and place orders. This setup not only improved customer engagement but also helped streamline the store’s inquiry-based sales process.

Secured Admin Login Access

Custom User Role for Order Management with Advanced Access Manager

To protect sensitive backend data while allowing staff to access order information, I used the Advanced Access Manager plugin to create a custom user role. I duplicated the default Administrator role and renamed it to Order Checker, then customized its permissions to limit access only to specific sections of the WordPress dashboard—mainly WooCommerce orders and customer details.

This setup ensures that employees assigned to check and manage orders cannot modify critical site settings, products, or content. By restricting menu visibility and backend capabilities, I created a more secure and task-focused environment. This helps reduce the risk of accidental changes while still allowing team members to fulfill their responsibilities efficiently within a controlled workspace.

Order Status System

Custom Parcel Statuses

To better track and communicate order progress with customers, I created a set of custom parcel statuses tailored specifically to the shop’s workflow. Each status is color-coded for clarity and designed to reflect key stages in the order process—from production updates to shipment and local warehouse arrival.

This helps both the team and the customers stay informed with precise order visibility. Whether the item is still under production, shipped, or awaiting pick-up in the Philippines, each step is clearly labeled. It also includes a red “Please Contact Us” status for special cases that need customer follow-up, improving communication efficiency.

Local Payment Setup

Custom Payment

Since the store operates in the Philippines where traditional online gateways are less common, I configured a custom payment gateway tailored to local preferences. Instead of relying on standard methods like credit cards or PayPal, I enabled options for GCash and money pick-up services, which are more accessible and widely used by the store’s customer base.

This setup ensures that customers can place orders with ease, even without a bank account or international card. I customized the payment instructions displayed at checkout, guiding customers clearly on how to complete the transaction. This approach not only improves user trust but also aligns the e-commerce process with real-world local practices.

Custom Parcel Tracking

Custom Built-In Parcel Tracking for Customer Orders

To improve post-purchase transparency and reduce order-related inquiries, I developed a custom built-in parcel tracking feature directly within the website. Once an order is marked as shipped, the tracking information is displayed on the customer's “My Account” page, allowing them to monitor their parcel’s progress without needing to leave the site or contact the store. This integration helps streamline communication and enhances the overall user experience. The parcel can also be tracked by providing the Order ID and the customer's email address. The tracking page can be found on the footer.

Unlike third-party plugins, this custom-built solution was tailored to match the store’s workflow and branding. It supports manual updates by the store owner or team, making it flexible for various local and international couriers. The tracking details are updated in real-time as entered by the admin, keeping customers informed every step of the way—from dispatch to delivery.

Custom Email Templates

Custom WooCommerce Email Template with Matched Branding

To maintain consistency across all customer touchpoints, I replaced WooCommerce’s default email design with a fully branded custom template using the “Email Template” plugin. The default layout felt too generic and didn’t reflect the overall look and feel of the GachaCart website. By customizing the email header, footer, color scheme, and typography, I was able to create a design that visually aligns with the site's aesthetic.

This change not only enhances brand recognition but also creates a more professional and trustworthy impression when customers receive order confirmations and updates. Matching the email visuals to the website ensures a cohesive experience from browsing to post-purchase communication, which is especially important for building trust in an e-commerce store that handles preorders and direct inquiries.

custom products

How Add to Cart works?

At the client’s request, I developed a custom payment flow tailored to their business model, which accepts full payment, an initial downpayment, followed by a final payment once the item is ready to ship. Since most customers prefer using GCash, a popular mobile wallet in the Philippines, and Stripe does not support this type of transaction, the checkout process was adjusted to guide customers to message the store's Facebook page for payment coordination and real-time pricing.

To support this workflow, I also customized the product structure on the backend, allowing prices to be easily updated or hidden entirely. This flexibility is crucial, as costume prices often vary depending on supplier costs and daily currency exchange rates. With this setup, the store can manage price visibility dynamically and maintain a simple, direct purchasing process that aligns with how their customers actually shop.