Weekly Food Blog Update #1: Hosting and WordPress
Welcome to food blog update #1! In this post, I will be going over how to get started with your food blog/website. So, you have had an idea about starting a blog or website for a while, and don’t know how to take the first steps. Let this guide be a resource to help get you started.
Hosting
The first thing you need to do is purchase web hosting. Most hosting companies offer monthly or yearly contracts. I have used a few different hosts, and the main differences I have seen are customer service and downtime. I am currently using InMotion Hosting, who I have been with for about 5 years. I have been very happy with them because they offer excellent customer service and almost 0 downtime. When you purchase a hosting plan, check for bundles with a free or cheap domain name (see below).
Domain Name
The next thing you need to do after you purchase a hosting plan is get a domain name. What do you want to call your blog or website? You can usually purchase one from the same company you get your hosting from. This is the fun part! Think of something unique to call your food blog/website. The best thing to do is brainstorm a list of names, then check if they are available from your host.
WordPress
After you’ve got your hosting plan and domain name, the next step is to install WordPress. That link contains everything you need to know to get your WordPress site up and running. You will need access to your cPanel from your website host and FTP manager – I use Viper for my FTP program on my desktop, because I find the cPanel FTP manager difficult to maneuver. It is way easier to upload the WordPress files using a desktop program. I also use Sublime Text for my file editor. You will need to edit code on at least one file in the WordPress folder you will download before uploading back to your FTP manager.
Choose a Theme
WordPress offers many free themes, so take time to preview them and find the style and functionality you like best. Then, log in to your dashboard (yoursite.com/wp-admin) and go to the “themes” section to search for the theme you like and install it. Customize it how you like using the theme customizer, or style.css file (if you do it this way, be sure to read up on child themes).
Now you have done the essential steps to starting your food blog/website! Congratulations, now the fun begins with creating and publishing your content.
Every Friday I publish a blog update which provides insight on how to start and maintain a food blog, and turn it into a business. Check back weekly for new tips!
Disclaimer: Some of the links above may be affiliate links, where I receive some commission if you make any purchases after clicking on them.
