Wondering how to start a blog of your own? That’s awesome! You’ve come to the right place. I’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you get started. Whether your passion is food or something else, follow the instructions below, and you’ll be on your way in no time.
What are you waiting for? Today’s the day! We’ve put together this short guide to show you how to start a blog.
1. Choosing a Domain Name and Hosting
Coming up with a name for your blog can be a lot of fun. Before you get started, make a list of several different names you’d like for your blog. It’s a good idea to have several in case some of them are taken. After you’ve made the list, go to the Siteground website.
The homepage will look something similar to this. Choose the option outlined in red to get started.
*If you are transferring domains or have over 10,000 visits a month, GrowBig or GoGeek may a better fit than the StartUp option.
Next, you’ll put your chosen domain name here. If no one else has that domain, you’re good to go! Yay! 🙂
From here you’ll need to choose your plan. If you are just getting started, the StartUp plan might be the best choice. I chose this option when I started Berly’s Kitchen.
Then, you’ll set up the payment options for the domain registration and hosting. Siteground makes this super easy. A word of caution, their system automatically defaults to a yearly payment. Don’t be caught off guard when you get to the end and the total due is larger than expected.
After updating the domain registration and web hosting, you’ll choose extra services. Domain registration is free (see below). I have it checked. I did not check Domain Privacy, but I highly recommend it. This service keeps your personal information private when you register your domain.
There you go! You are now the proud owner of a domain. Only a couple steps left.
2. WordPress Installation
Before you start blogging, you have to install WordPress. It’s an easy blogging software to use, and I absolutely love it. If you followed the steps above to set up Siteground domain hosting, count yourself lucky. Siteground offers free WordPress installation if you host your domain with them. That means they’ll do all the work for you! Simply log in to your Siteground account and request WordPress installation.
3. Theme Selection
Only one thing left to do, and this is where you get to show off your creative side. Time to pick out a theme. How exciting!
I went with a Studiopress Theme for Berly’s Kitchen. Foodie Pro was everything I needed. It was clean, sophisticated, and easy to use. I love the look of Shay’s themes, but if they aren’t for you, Studiopress offers a ton of great options.
Keep in mind, some of the themes listed above require the Genesis Framework. Sometimes you can find it bundled with the theme and purchase them together. After you buy the theme, simply install it and done!
Now, wasn’t that easy? Off you go. Start getting your awesome ideas out there to the world.
Don’t forget to check out my Blogging Resources page for more ideas!