Why Start a Blog?
A blog or website is a critical part of your online presence and business. If you’re curious, you can read 3 reasons why I started a blog here. Now, here’s the thing about starting a blog, or any website for that matter – it can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be.
My Biggest Regret
When I started Woods and Wool, I began with my Instagram. I saw that the domain “woodsandwool.com” was available, but I decided to wait to buy it until I knew what host I wanted to use. Less than a month later and someone else had grabbed the domain name… it was devastating.
Over a year later, after watching very closely, the domain expired and I was able to purchase it! It felt like a miracle that I could actually get my dream domain and I truly think it was. I was so fortunate that it became available to purchase it and in all honesty, that was probably pretty unlikely to happen.
If there’s one thing you take away from this post today, learn from my mistake and buy a domain name stat!
Ready to start blogging? Keep on reading for the three steps to start your blog!
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. Choose a Platform
Self-hosted WordPress is the best. That’s a pretty bold statement, but if you’re skeptical – Google it and I promise you’ll see why WordPress.org is the shining star of the internet. Self-hosting a blog through WordPress.org is the most robust, powerful, and flexible option out there. You’ll have a website that’s completely customizable, built to succeed in the world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and you’ll have access to thousands of plug-ins for your site.
Now I’m going to be honest with you – WordPress is a BEAST. It can take a lot of time and energy to learn, but I promise it’s worth it. If you’re not ready to take the plunge, you can start a free blog using WordPress.com. The best part about starting with WordPress.com in comparison to other free platforms is that you can convert it to a self-hosted WordPress site later on.
2. Find a Host
For over seven years, I’ve used Bluehost as my host. In those seven years, I’ve had the BEST experience with Bluehost’s customer service. I have called them at least a dozen times and they always pick up the phone within 30 seconds and are kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. It seems rare these days to find such outstanding customer service and it is absolutely priceless. Starting a blog can be tricky and confusing, and having a support team that is in your corner makes all the difference. For that alone, I wholeheartedly recommend using them as your host.
On top of that, Bluehost has a one-click install to get your self-hosted WordPress site started. It’s honestly that easy – one click. But wait… it gets better. If you’re a new customer, you can get your first year of hosting for about $4/month and a FREE domain. Amazing, right?!
3. Buy a Domain Name
This part is so easy and so important. Hop over to Bluehost and buy your domain name – that’s it. It’ll take you 5 minutes or less and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that you’ve got the domain name you want. You don’t have to do anything with it right away, but at least you’ve got it secured so you can start your blog when you’re ready.
It’s not expensive and only takes a few minutes, so go grab the name you want before it’s too late! I’m speaking from experience when I say it’s an awful feeling to wait and have someone else grab the domain name before you do… so take a minute or two and buy your name!
What About Other Platforms?
There are a ton of other blogging platforms out there – Squarespace, Wix, and Weebly are just a few. If you’re not confident in the tech-side of starting a website, definitely check out some of the other platforms out there. I have a little bit of experience with Squarespace and I can tell you it’s super user-friendly, easy to get up and running, and a really great all-in-one solution.
Now, the downside to some of the simplified options is that they’ll have more limitations and less customization options. It’s all a trade-off, so do your research and find the best fit for you!
Happy blogging, friends!
Ps. Once you get your blog set up, leave a comment so I can check it out!
