Project Goal We are seeking an elite-level WordPress Speed Optimization Expert to diagnose and resolve a severe site slowness issue. The ultimate goal is to achieve a page load time of under 3 seconds for real-world user experience and to secure high performance scores on tools like GTmetrix and Google PageSpeed Insights. The Challenge Our WordPress site is currently experiencing unacceptably slow loading times. This is a complex optimization challenge due to several factors: Custom Theme: The site uses a highly customized, proprietary theme that cannot be replaced or fundamentally restructured. Essential Plugins: The site relies on several critical, complex plugins that are business-essential and cannot be removed. Prior Optimization Efforts (Already Completed): We have already implemented extensive optimizations without achieving the desired results. This is why we need an expert who can go deeper than standard fixes. Completed Optimization Steps (Do NOT suggest these again): Caching Plugin: Full implementation and configuration of WP Rocket. Image Optimization: Comprehensive image compression and lazy loading. Hosting: Migration to a high-performance Cloud Hosting provider. CDN: Full setup and integration with Cloudflare. Code-Level Tweaks: Various other scattered performance enhancements. Your Focus Areas (The Next Level of Optimization): The successful candidate will need to investigate advanced areas, focusing on: Database Optimization: Deep cleanup and performance tuning. Custom Theme Audit: In-depth analysis and optimization of the custom theme's code, scripts, and CSS. Plugin Conflict/Overhead Analysis: Identifying and minimizing the performance impact of the essential, heavy plugins (we are open to selectively deleting minor/non-critical plugins you deem detrimental). Server/Hosting Configuration: Fine-tuning the cloud host and Cloudflare settings beyond basic setup (e.g., advanced caching rules, resource allocation). Render Blocking Resources: Aggressive handling of CSS/JS delivery. Measurement of Success (Crucial): Bidders must understand these success metrics: Real-World Load Time: The site must consistently load in under 3 seconds for an average user (measured via browser developer tools/network tab). Performance Tool Scores: Significant, sustained improvement on tools such as GTmetrix and Google PageSpeed Insights (aiming for 'A' Grade / 90+ score). Who We Are Looking For Only True Experts: Please do not bid if you only have experience with basic optimizations or template themes. We need a developer with a proven history of fixing complex, severely slow WordPress sites with custom themes and difficult plugin dependencies. Provide Case Studies: Your bid must include at least two examples (before/after reports, URLs, or detailed descriptions) of complex WordPress speed optimization projects you have completed, especially those involving custom themes. We look forward to partnering with a genuine expert to finally resolve this critical issue.