So, you want to start your own blog, but you are not sure how to get started. Well, honestly, that is the easy part. Once you get going, there is a lot to do all the time! But, if you love doing it like I do, that’s ok. I am going to give you a few tips to get you started. There are are a lot of us out here that have blogs that had to figure this out on our own, so you should definitely
Before we begin, let me say that this page is definitely a work in progress, so if you are just starting out, check back often.
I also want to point out that many of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I get small commission if you purchase their products or services through these links. These are all products or services that I actually use myself and feel good about recommending.
The first thing you are going to need is a domain name (thenameofyourblog.com, for example) and a hosting service. I use (affiliate link ->) Bluehost for my hosting service.
Here is what the screen will look like when you go there:
After you click get started now, you will be taken to a screen to register your domain or transfer you existing one if you already have one.
After you have chosen your domain, you will be taken to a screen to enter your account information.
And, then you enter your package information. I do want to point out the Domain Whois Privacy option at the bottom. Yes, it costs $9.99, but it keeps you contact information off of whois.com. This is available through any domain purchase with any company I have seen, not just (affiliate link ->)Bluehost. At any rate, I don’t know about you, but having my personal contact information available to the whole world doesn’t sound like a good idea.
Next, comes your billing information.
Then, you want to go in and install WordPress, which is the software you will use to actually write you blog. I love WordPress. For the most part it is pretty easy, but if you are having trouble, I would highly recommend the videos at Food Blogger Pro, which is another resource that I love. You do have to pay to join Food Blogger Pro, but the first month is just $1, and there is a ton of helpful information there.
Then, you will do a brand new install.
Then, you are going to choose which domain to install it on. If this is your first blog, it will be your only domain.
Read the terms and conditions and click install.
While WordPress is installing, you will see this screen, and then your done.
When the installation is finished, you will get a URL for logging into your site (so you can actually blog) and a username and password. You will need to memorize these or write them down until you do (if you are like me), so that you can login. I would go ahead and try that as soon as possible.
Next, you are going to want to install your WordPress theme. It has been a while since I started, but WordPress generally comes with a free theme or two. But, if you want something really nice that you can customize, you might want to purchase a theme. My theme is built on the Genesis Framework by Studio Press. They have quite a few themes to choose from, but mine is Tasteful Theme by Restored 316 Designs, which is a third party theme. This is a new theme for me, but I am loving it. And, Restored 316 Designs has awesome support!
