How to Create a Website Yourself
As a stay-at-home mum looking to start or grow a side hustle, having an online presence can significantly expand your reach and enhance your business credibility. Creating a website might seem technical, but it’s more accessible than ever before. This guide will walk you through each step, from securing a domain name to choosing the right platform and preparing content, all tailored for beginners.
Step 1: Buy a Domain Name
Your domain name is your website’s address on the internet. It should reflect your business name or the services you offer and be easy to remember.
- How to Choose a Domain Name:
- Keep it short, simple, and relevant to your business.
- Use keywords that describe your services or products.
- Avoid hyphens and numbers to ensure clarity.
- Where to Buy a Domain Name:
Learn more about buying and choosing a domain name with our How to Choose a Domain Name article.
Step 2: Understand Web Hosting
Web hosting is where your website’s files are stored so that your site can be accessed on the internet.
- Types of Hosting Plans:
- Shared Hosting: An affordable option where your site shares server resources with other websites. Ideal for small websites with low to moderate traffic.
- VPS Hosting: Offers more power and flexibility than shared hosting, suitable for growing websites with increasing traffic.
- Dedicated Hosting: You get an entire server for your website. It’s more expensive but necessary for websites with high traffic or complex site requirements.
- Recommended Hosting Providers:
- Bluehost: Great for beginners, offering affordable plans and one-click installations for many platforms.
- SiteGround: Known for excellent customer support and high-performance hosting.
- HostGator: Offers a range of hosting options with good scalability.
Step 3: Prepare Your Content
Before building your site, it’s important to gather and prepare all the content you’ll need, including text, images, and videos.
- Text: Write clear and concise copy about your services or products. AI writing tools like OpenAI’s GPT-3 can help you craft compelling content if you’re unsure where to start.
- Images: Use high-quality images that reflect your brand. If you’re not ready to invest in professional photos, sites like Unsplash offer free, high-quality stock photos.
- Videos: Including videos can increase engagement. Make simple videos that explain your products or share your personal story.
Step 4: Choose a Website Builder
For beginners, website builders are the easiest way to create a website. They offer templates and drag-and-drop interfaces.
- Wix: Offers a wide range of templates and a highly intuitive drag-and-drop interface. Great for those who want creative control without needing technical skills.
- Squarespace: Known for its stunning design templates, ideal for visually-oriented businesses like crafts or photography.
- Weebly: Offers a simple, user-friendly design interface with useful built-in features for e-commerce.
- Divi (WordPress): A WordPress theme with a built-in page builder that’s extremely flexible. It has a steeper learning curve but provides complete customization.
Step 5: Design Your Website
- Choose a Template: Pick a template that aligns with your business’s vibe. Most platforms offer templates sorted by industry.
- Customise Your Site: Modify the template by adding your own colours, fonts, and logo to match your brand’s identity.
- Navigation: Ensure your site’s navigation is clear and intuitive. Main pages should include Home, About, Services/Products, and Contact.
Building a website as a stay-at-home mom is not just about showcasing your business, it’s about creating a professional online presence that can grow with your ambitions. By following these steps, you can set up a site that not only looks professional but also functions effectively, helping you to attract and engage more customers.
Ready to start your journey to building your own website? With these tools and tips, you’re well-equipped to create a beautiful and functional site that represents your business perfectly.
