So you have decided to create and start blogging. Now, where do you start?
You will need a domain name, some way to manage all of your content, and a place to host it all. Seems like a lot and would be difficult, but thankfully there are services out there that help make it a lot easier and do not require you to hire a team of developers or go out and start learning how to code.
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Step 1: Set up your hosting
Think of your host as where your blog will live. It is important that you pick a reliable company so that your users can always access your website and read your awesome content! I chose Bluehost as my provider and I am very happy with them. They are very affordable and are ranked as one of the top hosting providers. For as little as $3.95 a month you get a free domain name, one-click installation of WordPress(for managing your content), and 24/7 support. All of this also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee.Where do I sign up?
You can sign up for Bluehost, and pick your domain name, through my link here: Sign Up for Bluehost! I am an affiliate for Bluehost so I will receive a commission if you use my link, so thank you if you do! Once you click on the link, you will want to click on the big “Get Started Now” button.
From there you will be given an option of what plan you want. For the most part, the $3.95 plan will be just fine. Unless you plan on having multiple websites or want some of the included extra features you probably do not need a more expensive plan. You can always upgrade later.
Please note, to get the lowest possible price per month you will need to sign up for a 36-month term (paid upfront). You can choose low as 12-months, but it will cost $5.95 a month, which is still a very good deal. You still get a free domain name and the other great features I mentioned.
After you pick your plan, you will want to choose your domain name. This is how people will get to your website. If you already have one that is no problem! Bluehost can be set up to use the domain name that you’ve already purchased. You can also skip this step for now if you are still thinking about your name by clicking on the “Choose Later!” link.
Next, you will enter in all your information, select your package term length, any extras that you would want (these are not really needed, so just pick ones you feel you want/need), and your payment information. Once you accept the terms and submit your new hosting plan is ready to go.
At this point, I would highly suggest creating a document or having a notebook so you can start recording all of your usernames and passwords. There are going to a few so it’s nice to not have to remember everything. Just make sure you store this in a safe location as it will have access to all of your important stuff!
Step 2: Install WordPress
Once you have setup Bluehost you will want to install WordPress. If you log in to your account just after setting up your hosting this should be done automatically. You will know this because you will be prompted to select a theme for your website. This step can also be skipped for now. Next click on start building. That’s it! Pretty simple right? Now when you first get your blog set up through Bluehost it will not be fully launched. If you go to your domain you will see a coming soon page. This gives you time to get all of your content and visual aspects set up before you release your blog to the world. Just make sure that when you’re ready to share your awesome content you click that launch button. To access your WordPress and start creating content you will log in by going to yourdomainname.com/wp-admin. This is where you will enter your WordPress username and password.5 Tips for Finding your Blog Niche
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