Setting up a website is one of the most powerful steps you can take to establish your brand, share your services, and attract new customers. From personal blogs and business websites to full eCommerce stores, the steps below will guide you through the process — even if you’re just getting started.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose a Domain Name
Your domain name is your website’s address (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com). It should be:
- Short, memorable, and easy to spell
- Closely related to your business name or service
- Ideally ending in .com or .co.uk for professionalism
Use a trusted domain registrar to check availability and register your name.
💡 We recommend Namecheap or GoDaddy for reliable and beginner-friendly domain registration.
Step 2: Select a Website Platform
Choose a website builder that suits your needs and technical comfort:
- WordPress.org – Best for flexibility and customization
- Wix – Drag-and-drop simplicity, great for beginners
- Squarespace – Polished design with ease-of-use
- Shopify – Tailored for eCommerce
Each platform has pros and cons, so consider your goals, design needs, and budget.
Step 3: Pick a Hosting Provider
If you’re using WordPress or a content management system (CMS), you’ll need web hosting. Top-rated hosting providers include:
- Bluehost – Easy WordPress setup and 24/7 support
- SiteGround – Known for performance and security
- Hostinger – Budget-friendly option with good uptime
Once signed up, you can link your domain during setup.
Step 4: Set Up Your Website
This is where your site starts to take shape.
- Install your platform (many hosts offer one-click install for WordPress)
- Pick a template or theme that fits your brand
- Add essential pages: Home, About, Services, Contact
- Use plugins (e.g., SEO, contact forms, speed optimization)
Step 5: Launch and Optimize
Before you publish:
- Preview your site across desktop and mobile
- Submit it to Google Search Console for indexing
- Add titles, meta descriptions, and basic SEO
- Connect Google Analytics to track visitors
Launch your site with confidence and refine as you grow.
Common Questions
Q: Can I build a website without coding skills?
A: Yes. Both WordPress and Shopify are designed to be user-friendly, even for beginners.
- WordPress offers flexibility with drag-and-drop themes and plugins like Elementor.
- Shopify simplifies online store creation with built-in tools and hosting included.
Q: How much does a website cost?
- Domain: ~£8–£12 per year
- Hosting (for WordPress): ~£2–£10 per month
- Shopify plan: Starts at ~£25/month (includes hosting and store management)
Q: How long does it take to launch a website?
A basic WordPress or Shopify site can be live within a few hours using pre-made themes. Customised or content-rich websites may take a few days to launch, depending on your content, branding, and setup needs.
Need Assistance?
Setting up a website doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Web Guidance, we help you set up, design, and optimize your website so you can focus on what you do best. Contact us today to get started!
