Note: These resources can be helpful for anyone that has decided to start a blog whether or not it is food related. It just so happens that I run a food blog and have more experience in that scene.
So, you’ve decided to start a blog and claim your own little piece of the internet. I like your style! Blogging can be a fun and rewarding experience, albeit a lot of hard work. But if writing about something you love and are passionate about and connecting with like-minded individuals is what you’re all about, I’m here to help you on your food blogger journey.
Here’s a little roadmap with step-by-step instructions on starting a blog and getting you on your way!
1. Domain & Hosting
2. Install WordPress
3. Set up Theme (Make it Beautiful
1. Domain Name & Hosting
Domain
First things first, come up with a name. This is the fun, frustrating, creative part where you get started! Try to choose something catchy that is not too long.
My blog name is Mince Republic and my domain name is mincerepublic.com. The process for coming up with this name was a tribute to my last name, Demint, being shortened and as a cooking term, Mince, and Republic because I like to think of this space as a “republic of and for foodies”.
In my case, while thinking of a name, I found it particularly helpful to write out a lot of different words that I liked, write them down on a piece of paper and then see which ones worked well together.
Once you’ve come up with a few possibilities, go to Bluehost to check and see if the domain name is available. Once you have found one that is available, you’re going to have to host the domain somewhere.
Hosting
While your domain points to your little space of the internet, hosting is the actual space you’re going to be renting. I use and recommend Bluehost who has great prices and will also give you your domain name for free if you host with them. This is a great deal especially for someone just starting out!
As for package information, I recommend the starter plan. You do have to pay a lump sum instead of monthly payments but in the long run, it’ll save you money.
I would personally opt to also include the Domain Privacy Protection which shields your personal information (address and phone number) from being displayed publicly.
2. Install WordPress
WordPress is a CMS (Content Management System) and an excellent blogging software. It’s perfect for people who don’t know how to create a website or blog from scratch but want to have some flexibility in the way it looks and the ability to manage it themselves.
It’s very to easy to use and easy to set up. It’s also what I use for Mince Republic.
To install, Login to your Bluehost account and simply click the Install WordPress button.
You will then be taken to a page to install for free (Do it yourself) or Paid (They will do it for you). It’s up to you on how much help you want and what your budget is but I just installed it myself because it really is very simple.
Once you click “Install”, it will check your domain. Once cleared, check the terms and conditions box and click “Install Now”.
3. Set up a theme (Make it beautiful)
Now that you’ve got your blog all set up, it’s time to make it beautiful!
WordPress has a ton of free themes you can pick from which you can find here. Otherwise, you can get a premium theme here:
Genesis Framework
This is the framework I use on “Mince Republic”. It makes it incredibly easy to manipulate themes to your liking and add widgets. Then you can get one of the StudioPress themes to run on top of Genesis which work hand in hand.
Currently, I’m using the Foodie Theme. You can find the Foodie Pro Theme here. It’s an awesome theme for food bloggers especially with the recipe implementation.
I would highly recommend it to any food blogger.
Another option is Elegant Themes which look great and are easy to use, plus they’re a little bit cheaper than the other themes listed.
That’s it, you’re all set to start! For even more help on your blogging journey, because let’s face it, it’s a never ending adventure, be sure to check out these other helpful links:
(Disclaimer: Please note that some of these links are affiliate links and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I only recommend products I use and trust. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.)