Blog Talk: How to Start a Blog
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July 12, 2021
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.
April 30, 2019 @ 2:41 pm
Love this! All the basics! I need to forward this blog post to all my friends that are interested in starting one!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:06 am
Yes!! Please do! I always hear from people who want to start a blog but just donโt know the first step to take. It really can be so easy; just gotta take that plunge!
May 1, 2019 @ 2:56 am
Such an awesome post babe and would be so helpful for everything wanting to start a blog!
Kileen
cute & little
May 2, 2019 @ 11:03 am
Yay!!! Thanks, Kileen!
May 1, 2019 @ 6:59 am
Great post to help newbies get started!!!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:03 am
Woohooo!!! Hoping it inspires someone to take the plunge!
May 1, 2019 @ 9:27 am
Great post for all the new bloggers out there.
May 2, 2019 @ 11:03 am
Thanks, Nataly! I think so too!
May 1, 2019 @ 10:33 am
I think so many people get jumbled up in these first simple (or seemingly simple) steps. It can seem so daunting, but it really CAN be super simple and a great three-step process to just DO IT. Love this!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:02 am
Yes!! I totally agree! Fear is definitely the #1 thing that holds people back.
May 1, 2019 @ 11:08 am
Great tips for any newbie blogger!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:01 am
Thanks, Deborah!
May 1, 2019 @ 10:36 pm
I love how blogging, especially through WordPress, makes it so simple for people to get started! I need to check out the series ๐
-xo, Azanique | https://www.lotsofsass.com
May 2, 2019 @ 11:01 am
I agree!! So helpful!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:05 am
You definitely learn a lot your first year of blogging. Now that I’ve been doing it for a while – there are lots things I’d do differently! I didn’t have a great experience with Bluehost – but I would always recommend WordPress!
May 2, 2019 @ 11:18 am
Yes! Thatโs definitely why I love sharing tips! Sooo many things Iโve learned.
May 6, 2019 @ 1:55 pm
I love how quick and easy to follow this is. The screenshots are also helpful. I solely use WordPress and I swear by it. I think it is by far the best website and blogging platform on the web. Great tutorial, Megan!
Sara
http://www.mindovermango.com
May 9, 2019 @ 9:41 am
Yes, 100%!! Iโm such a fan of WordPress. Thank you so much for your feedback, lady! So glad you found it to be helpful!
May 7, 2019 @ 12:36 pm
This is such a helpful post!! I get asked this question often and can now direct people to your post!
May 9, 2019 @ 9:39 am
Yay! Awesome!!
May 8, 2019 @ 5:11 pm
This is a really great beginner’s step by step. I’m going to point people your blog’s way when they ask me how (and I get that question a lot)
May 9, 2019 @ 9:37 am
Awesome!! Iโm so glad you find it helpful, and I would LOVE that. Thanks, girl!