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Blog Talk: How to Start a Blog

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July 12, 2021

blog talk, how to start a blog, first steps for starting a blog, wordpress.org vs. wordpress.com, blog consulting, blog advice, best wordpress blog design

I’m going back to the basics with today’s Blog Talk: how to start a blog. I sometimes get so caught up in sharing what I’ve learned at this stage in blogging that I neglect the most important part: actually starting! I hear people say they’ve been thinking about starting a blog for years, they just never do it. Whether you’re nervous, don’t know where to start, or debating between platform options, I’m here to help!

I was a guest on a podcast recently where I talk all about how to become a successful blogger. There are a ton of tips, but the most important takeaway for those thinking about starting a blog was to just start. So, here’s exactly what you need to do to start a blog.

1. Purchase hosting

The first step in how to start a blog is to buy a hosting plan. It’s basically a little storage locker within the internet where your site lives. I suggest Bluehost. They have the best customer service and in 7 years with them, I’ve never had an issue. Your hosting plan will come with a free domain for one year when you use this link. If you haven’t decided on a name yet, you can always start with a temporary URL. You’ll only need the smallest hosting package, which is just $4/mo.

2. Install WordPress to your server

WordPress.org is absolutely the way to go when you’re starting a blog, especially if you plan to take it seriously and eventually monetize. WordPress.com does not allow for monetization, nor much customization. WordPress was created for blogs, so not only is it very user-friendly and ideal for regularly publishing blog posts, but it’s also great for SEO. There are tons of plugins you can add to your WordPress site to make it even more powerful. Additionally, you’ll have the most options for design since you’ll have full control of your site.

3. Install a Theme

There are tons of options out there when it comes to the aesthetics of your blog. All WordPress sites come with a default theme, but if you want to add more personalization, you can purchase and download a theme from a third-party theme developer. I’m a big fan of 17th Ave. Their themes are beautiful, easy to customize, functional, and fast.

Want a fully custom site? I’d love to work with you! You can view my design site here.

4. Start creating content

You don’t have to publish it right away, but it’s important to start getting a feel for the process of blogging. This will help you get the ball rolling as you continue to research all things blogging and social media.

And that’s it! Of course, there is a lot to do once you actually get started, but these are the basic first steps of how to start a blog that you can take to just start. If you do plan to make money from your blog one day, I would also suggest creating and solidifying your brand identity and identifying your target audience. My partner Lauren and I offer this service through Adorn Media Group (it’s our Influencer Branding Guide), plus lots more that can help you get your blog to the next level.

Pin for Later:

If you’ve been thinking about starting a blog, what’s holding you back?

Photo by Ryan Carpenter.

Read more in the Blog Talk series here.

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