Hi!! For those that don’t know me, I’m Lindsay!  I live in Dallas, Texas with my husband, Alessandro and my fluffly, short-legged, snuggly, mini golden doodle, Knox.   I started this blog a little over a year ago when two of my hobbies collided–cooking & photography.  I was already cooking and already taking photos of my creations, so why not share it with the foodie world?

I didn’t know a single thing about starting a blog until I actually decided to start a blog.. imagine that!  I googled “how to start a blog” and took it from there, so I promise you can do it, too. I’ve had so many people ask me how to go about starting a food blog, so i’ve written up a step by step process to get you started on your blogging journey!

Today is the day!! Follow the below four steps and you’ll be ready to roll in no time!

*Please note: some of the below links are affiliate links, however, I have used and recommend all of the below products. 

1. Domain Name
2. Hosting
3. Installing WordPress
4. Add some spunk and start blogging!
1. DOMAIN NAME: This, in a nutshell, is easy and fun! Simply jot down a list of names you’d like to name your blog and check to see if the domain name is still available.  Head over to Bluehost.com, and go to Hosting –> Domains and look for the box titled “Search for your domain here”: start entering in your list of names and see what’s still available! Bluehost offers a free domain with web hosting, however, godaddy.com is also an affordable option.
2. HOSTING:  Hosting your website is like a rental property for your blog.  I would recommend starting out with Bluehost as they have great rates and will give you your domain name for free if you sign up for hosting as well. It’s great for growing blogs because it’s easy to set up, is reasonably priced, and they offer 24/7 customer support! I would recommend starting off with the most basic plan for $2.95/mo, and you can modify/change down the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. INSTALLING WORDPRESS: After you have chosen your domain name and signed up for web hosting, the next step is actually creating your blog! I use wordpress for Tippsinthekitch.com, and it’s been nothing but great! You can install for free on the Bluehost website.

You will also need to choose a theme for your website, which can range anywhere from $0-$130 depending on the feel you are going for. You can definitely start with one of the free themes, and can always change it down the road depending on how you’re liking the look/feel of your site.   My blog uses a Studiopress theme on the Genesis Framework.  All studiopress themes are beautiful, clean, and easy to navigate which is why I went with the Foodie Pro Theme. I personally love the clean feel and thought it was perfect for my blog. Thesis and Elegant themes work great, too!

4. ADD SOME SPUNK & START BLOGGING: CONGRATS! You now have your own blog. Woop Woop- Now it’s time to start blogging!