How to Start a Blog in a Weekend + Free Worksheet

Something I get asked a lot is “What do I need to do to start my own blog?”

Yes, starting a blog is no joke, but it’s SO much easier than you think!

Grab my FREE worksheet and I’ll guide you through the steps so you can get your blog launched ASAP.

1. Choose a Domain

The domain name for your biz is crucial in establishing a well rounded brand. Think carefully of the name you choose. Is it memorable? Does it contain SEO friendly keywords? Can your business grow with it? Once your heart is set on a name, check if it’s available. GoDaddy or Google Domains are good places to buy your domain from. Prices for domain names are usually around $10-$20 per year.

2. Choose a Host

After you’ve purchased your domain name, you need to purchase a hosting plan. You do not need to use the same company for hosting as you did for your domain, but sometimes it’s easier to do it all in one place. Your hosting package may be billed monthly or annually – prices depend on the level package you choose.

3. Choose a Platform

After you choose a hosting plan, you’ll need to decide what platform you want to use for your website.WordPress is one of the most popular and diverse platforms. Keep in mind some platforms have hosting already built in. If you want to hire a professional website designer, you may want to find out what platforms they have experience with.

4. Purchase a Template

Depending on the platform you want to work with, you’ll need to select a template or theme for your blog. I only work with WordPress sites and their templates are called themes. There are free themes, and paid themes. Paid themes typically are better and have more features and a nicer layout. Every paid theme has a demo, so test drive the site before you buy anything. Keep in mind, you can always change your theme down the road without losing content.

5. Plan and Prepare Your Content

Now that you’ve found a design for your blog you’ll need to consider navigation structure, content strategy and also begin sourcing imagery. Your navigation should be short and simple, but also consider if you want dropdown menus and/or a utility navigation. For your blog posts you’ll want to compile a list a categories. These are great to use as a guide when coming up with ideas for blog posts. Finally, you want to start building out pages (like About, Contact, Services, etc.).

One of the MOST important parts of your blog is imagery. Each post should have an image or graphic and if possible, try to keep a consistent look with all of your photography.

Checkout these posts on where to find photos for your blog:

75 Free (and Beautiful) Stock Photos for Your Website

10 Resources for Gorgeous Styled Stock Photos

10 Great Resources for Mockup Photos

6. Ready, Set, Launch!

Before your new site launches, you should thoroughly review every page and check for any last minute fixes. Consider having a bestie take a look at your blog and give you friendly feedback.

Grab my FREE worksheet with additional pro tips, checklists and more detailed helpful information to get you launched by Monday!

What do you think of this article? Do you have any questions for me? Ask me in the comments box below!