How to start your food blog - in 15 minutes or less!
Starting a blog is easy as 1. 2. 3. Here is what you need to do:
1. Choose a host
2. Choose a domain name
3. Install WordPress
Sounds daunting? Fear not, we will do this together. Just follow me and we'll get your blog started in no time, without headaches!
Step 1 - Choose a host
A host is like a space you rent out on the internet to set up your blog.
Bluehost is the host I recommend to get started because they are reliable, their customer service is excellent and they are cheap!
Click here to go to Bluehost (the page will open in a new window so you can refer back to the instructions)
Please note that the images below might be a bit different from what you see on Bluehost's website but don't worry, the process remains the same.
Click on the "get started now" button
Step 2 - Select your plan
The "starter" plan should be enough to get you started. Keep in mind that you can upgrade anytime. Every plan comes with a free domain name - another thing I love about Bluehost!
Click on the "select" green button.
Step 3 - Choose a domain name
Now, it's time to choose a domain name and that's probably the most exciting part!
A domain name is basically your online address on the internet. It's what people will type in their web browser to visit your blog. My domain name for instance is www.notenoughcinnamon.com
Here are a few tips to choose your domain name:
- It should match your blog's name. Say you want to call your blog "Cooking with Marie", your domain name should be cookingwithmarie.com
- go for .com whenever possible
- be creative but make sure it's easy to pronounce and remember
- avoid numbers, hyphens and complicated, long words
Type your domain name in the box, then click on the "next" button.
Step 4 - Enter your account information
Fill in your account information, then scroll down
Step 5 - Choose the package options
Under package information, select your Account Plan. You can choose between a 12, 24 or 36-month plan. You will have to pay in advance for the whole period, but it will save you a lot of money.
Then select your options. I highly recommend Domain Privacy Protection, to make sure people and companies don't have access to your personal information like address and phone number.
Step 6 - Enter your billing information
Fill in your billing information and click on the green "next" button
Skip the upgrades and complete your purchase.
Congratulations, you now have a host for your blog!
Check your mailbox, you have just received a welcome email from Bluehost containing your login information. Save this email for future reference!
Step 7 - Login to bluehost
Go back to Bluehost and click on "login", at the top right corner.
Enter your domain or username, and your password.
Step 8 - Install WordPress
The last thing we need to do is to install WordPress
WordPress is the software you are going to use to blog. It's easy to use and free! YAY
Click on "home", then "Install WordPress" under the website section.
Click on the green "Install" button.
Step 9 - Choose an install
Select the domain you have just registered, then click "check domain"
Step 10 - Set up WordPress
Click on "Show advanced options". Enter your site name and choose the admin username and admin password.
Two things to make sure your WordPress account stays safe:
- DO NOT use simply "admin" as a username.
- Choose a complicated password with letters, numbers and punctuation.
Check the terms and conditions box, and then click on the green "Install now" button.
Final Step - Login to WordPress
Your admin URL, username and password will now show on the screen (you will also receive a confirmation via email).
In another window, type your admin URL in your browser and login to WordPress using your credentials.
And...that's it, you're ready to post your first article! How does that feel? I'm excited for you! Now, make sure you send me your blog's link, I want to check it out!
NEXT STEP: the plugins you need to get started + how to make your blog pretty (coming soon)
SEE ALSO: resources for food bloggers (coming soon)