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Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix →   What is a website? A website is a collection of web pages that allows individuals, businesses and organizations to share information, showcase services and connect with audiences online. Whether you’re using a website builder or leveraging an AI website builder , having a clear grasp of the basics will help you create a site that meets your goals. Websites come in many forms, from personal portfolios and blogs to an eCommerce website and company hubs, each designed to serve a specific purpose and audience. They typically include pages, navigation menus, multimedia elements and interactive features that make online engagement possible. Before diving into how to create a website , it’s necessary to understand the basics, like what is a website and why do you need one? This article will cover website definitions, the characteristics of the various types of sites and why it's important to build a website. Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. With Wix, you can design, customize and launch a professional website in minutes. Everything about Wix is built to simplify the process so you can focus on what really matters: bringing your ideas to life. Ready to make it happen? Start creating the website you’ve always envisioned today. What is a website? A website is a place on the internet where you can easily post information about yourself, your business or topics you're passionate about. It's like having your own corner of the web to showcase your ideas and connect with others. Whether you're looking to share knowledge, sell online, communicate with others, learn something new or simply have fun—websites serve a variety of purposes. To access a website, users simply need a device with a web browser—like laptops, smartphones or tablets—along with an Internet connection. Learn more: What is a Wix website? Key characteristics of a website Every website has a few core elements that make it work, feel professional and connect with your audience. Knowing these will help you build a site that’s easy to navigate, engaging and effective. Feature What it is Why it matters Domain name Your website’s unique address (like www.example.com). Helps people find your site and makes it easy to remember. Web pages The individual pages that make up your website usually built with HTML. Share content—text, images, videos—and guide visitors through your site. Navigation Menus and links connecting your pages and sections. Makes it simple for visitors to explore your site and find what they need. Hosting The servers where your website lives online. Keeps your website accessible 24/7 so anyone can visit anytime. Purpose The reason your website exists—sharing information, selling products or connecting with a community. Guides your design and content so your site meets your goals and serves your audience. What are websites used for? Websites are a key part of everyday life, helping people stay informed, shop online, share ideas and connect with others. They serve as digital spaces for communication, learning, entertainment and business. Learn more: What is an eCommerce website? , Website vs online store Depending on who’s creating them, the purpose of a website can vary : Sharing information:  Many websites exist simply to provide people with information. Think about your local library, city government or school—they all use their websites to keep you in the loop. These sites are all about making important details accessible to the public. Business and online sales:  Companies rely on websites to present their products or services, handle transactions and offer customer support. Ecommerce features like shopping carts and secure payments make it easy for customers to shop online. Personal expression and blogging:  Got a story to tell, a hobby you're passionate about or a portfolio of work you're proud of? A personal website or blog is the perfect place to share it. This is your corner of the internet where you can express yourself freely and put your creative work on display. Entertainment and media:  Websites provide access to videos, music, games and news. Platforms for streaming or reading online content make entertainment easy to enjoy anytime, anywhere. Community and social connection:  Online forums, social networks and groups let people meet others with shared interests, discuss topics and build communities online. Together, all publicly available websites form the World Wide Web, a global network that connects people, ideas and information across the world. Learn more: What is a wedding website? How does a website work? The first thing to understand is the internet and the web that provide a ground for websites. The internet is the technology or infrastructure connecting computers and facilitating information sharing. The web is the system that enables information sharing using the internet. It encompasses digital documents, websites, webpages, media and more. To view web content, we use web browsers like Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox or Safari. When you enter a web address or domain name into your browser, your computer sends a request to the hosting server. This request passes through the Domain Name System (DNS)  to look up the server's internet protocol (IP) address . The web service uses protocols like Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS)  and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) to transmit information and files over the web. Once the server receives the request, it sends back the requested webpage , along with images and other files, to your computer. The browser then displays the webpage using technologies like HyperText Markup Language (HTML)  and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) . These technologies structure and present the information on the screen. Website loading time depends on a range of factors like server speed, internet connection quality and website size and complexity. Difference between website, webpage and web server  Understanding the distinctions between a website, webpage and web server is key for effective navigation in the digital landscape. Let's use a simple analogy—imagine a bustling marketplace. The website is like the marketplace itself, and each webpage is a unique stall or shop within it. Similar to a marketplace, each webpage offers different products—information, images and services —just like the goods in a shop. Now, picture the internet as the city where the marketplace is located, a vast network connecting countless marketplaces (websites). It's like exploring a city full of interconnected markets, each with its own offerings. Webpage A webpage is a single document or page within a website. Websites can have multiple webpages, all linked together by hyperlinks, to display a cohesive website. The page you're currently on is a webpage. When you go to the home page, you're on a separate webpage, but still within the same website.  Web server  A web server  is a computer that stores and delivers webpages to users when they request them. It is the physical location where all the files and data for a website are stored. When someone types in your website's URL, the server gets the necessary files and displays them to create the webpage. Website A website is a collection of webpages that are accessed with a single domain name or URL. It includes all the individual pages, multimedia details and files stored on a web server. Websites are built using languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript  to make visually appealing layouts and functionality.  Don't confuse websites and web servers. If someone says, "My website is not responding," it means the web server isn't responding, making the website unavailable. Remember, a web server can host multiple websites, but the term "web server" doesn’t refer to a specific website. In the previous example, if someone says, "My web server is not responding," it means multiple websites on that web server are unavailable. Learn more: Website vs blog vs forums Components of a website A website is a collection of webpages hosted on a web server. In order to create a website , you need several components. Here’s what you need to get started: Domain name To reach your site, individuals type in a unique web address that typically reflects your business or brand name and ends with a domain extension like .com, .org, or .net. Registering your website name with a domain registration company, also known as a domain registrar, is necessary to secure this distinctive internet address. Tip:   When you make a website with Wix, you can opt for  domain privacy  for no extra fee, when you register your domain.  Domain extension Also known as top-level domains (TLD), domain extensions  can quickly identify specific elements of a website like its main purpose, owner or geographic location. You can check out  ICANN’s complete list of domain extensions here . Webpages Webpages, also known as individual documents within a website, present information to users. Each webpage should serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall user experience by providing valuable material, images and interactive elements. Some websites may be concise and focused, with only a few pages, while others offer an array of information and services to cater to diverse user needs. Web host This is the service that stores your website's files and makes them accessible to users on the internet. By choosing the appropriate plan for hosting a website , you can optimize performance, enhance security and provide an exceptional usability to your visitors.  URL address The address of a website is also known as the Universal Resource Locator (URL) . When a user wants to open a website then they need to put the URL of the website into a web browser and the requested website is delivered by the web server. The URL of the Wix Blog for example, https://www.wix.com/blog is composed of three parts:  Protocol identifier: Defines the protocol used to access the webpage (usually HTTP or HTTPS) Server name: Refers to the domain name and extension where the web server is located (wix.com) File name: Indicates the specific page or resource on that web server (blog) Homepage The homepage  is a very common and important part of the website. It serves as the initial point of contact for viewers, setting the tone and guiding them to explore the rest of the website. Thinking through and making a homepage  not only showcases the brand's identity but also directs users to other relevant pages. Navigation structure Website navigation  is the order of pages and the collection of links that connect them. When done correctly, it creates a smooth and intuitive browsing. Typically, this structure is supported by one or more menus, strategically placed to make it easy for users to find what they need and move around the sections of the website.  Templates A website template is a pre-made design that includes the layout, color scheme, font choice and all visual elements. It's like a ready-to-use blueprint for your brand's online presence. With Wix, you'll find a wide range of templates, from striking photography website  templates to stylish blog templates . These templates can be customized to fit your brand and content needs.  Multimedia elements These include a wide range of multimedia details such as images, videos, audio files and interactive website features  like animations and adaptive content. When used correctly, these elements can make a website engaging, informative and visually appealing. Content Content is the information you put on your website to inform, guide, or influence visitors. This information can be presented with text, images, videos or audio recordings. Similar to website design , the primary responsibility of content is to keep people engaged, resulting in longer stays and repeat visits to your site. Additionally, well-optimized articles can improve your position on search engine result pages (SERPs), playing a crucial role in on-page search engine optimization (SEO). “ There are over 2 billion websites out there and we all visit many of them daily. With visual and textual content you have the opportunity to make a statement and have your site stand out. This is the place to add your brand personality. If you are more traditional, no need to go wild. Often, unique copy or a cool visual is all you need for your site to be memorable. ” Adi Huri, Product Manager at Wow for   Wix Static vs dynamic websites When it comes to creating your website, you'll face an important decision: choosing between a static vs dynamic website . This choice will affect how your webpages are stored and delivered to users in their browsers. Let's take a closer look at these website structures. Static websites A static website is a collection of pre-written webpages that are displayed as published. These sites aren't interactive, meaning the material on each page remains the same until manually updated. The information and appearance of static websites remain consistent for all viewers, regardless of their browsers, locations or devices. Often, businesses opt for static websites to establish a simple online presence, as they are cost-effective without requiring server-side processing in multiple languages. While static webpages can't take input from users, they can still contain animations and clickable elements like hyperlinks or navigation buttons. This makes them a popular choice for portfolio and catalog sites. V-labs  is an example of a static website. It displays text, images and navigation links that direct visitors to other pages. Dynamic websites Dynamic websites are more flexible and user-friendly. They can change information and appearance based on several factors, including the time of the day, visitor’s location, language preferences, past interactions with the site or device type. With these sites, the web server processes data in real-time to generate customized pages for each visitor. Dynamic websites can interact with users through forms, surveys, quizzes and other interactive factors that require server-side processing. This makes dynamic websites most suited for eCommerce business, social media, ticket booking and forums. These sites also allow individuals to set up accounts, login and access personalized information or services. Amazon.com is a popular example of a dynamic site. Its front page shows product recommendations to visitors based on their locations, purchases and search history. Learn more: Website vs social media Types of websites Websites can also be broken down into categories based on their objectives, features or target audiences. Whether you’re starting a business  or simply want to learn how to make a blog , understanding the difference between these types of websites  will help you get started. Blogs These sites are used to publish articles or posts in a chronological order, covering a wide range of topics from personal stories to news, as well as thoughtful essays, tutorials or practical advice lists. Keeping blog content up to date—as well as the feedback from users—must be constant. Many businesses start a blog to share news and information with their customers, using it as an SEO tool, attracting more organic visitors. Nowadays, professional blogging has emerged as a popular way to earn money online. As an interior stylist and digital content creator, Brit Arnesen uses her blog, britdotdesign , as a platform to provide web design inspiration and expertise to her readers. Learn more: Website vs Blog Ecommerce websites An eCommerce website  is an online store that helps you sell products, services and digital goods online by enabling you to accept payments , process orders, manage logistics and shipping and offer customer help. These websites are made up of several webpages where businesses show their products and users can place orders online, complete the transaction and apply various payment methods. Adama Studio  creates modern, practical ceramic items for everyday use. Their website has an online store where customers can easily purchase and have products shipped. Portfolio websites An online portfolio  showcases a person's or business' work, skills and experience. It's used to attract prospective clients, employers or partners by sharing your previous projects. A portfolio website  can house images, videos, descriptions of the services provided as well as client testimonials. Sharon Radisch  is a multi-talented creative who works as a photographer, art director and artist. Her online portfolio highlights the various projects she has undertaken in each of these roles. Get inspired by these best portfolio websites . Websites for professional services Professional websites aim to encourage users to purchase products or services, but without strictly serving as an eCommerce site. The main individuals who are learning how to create a professional website  come from various fields, including suppliers and service companies. Their sales process works best through a quote or an in-person appointment. Mango Marketing ’s website outlines their studio service packages for businesses looking to expand their business and enhance their online visibility. Landing page or single page sites One-page websites' popularity has grown because they are simple and easy to navigate. These websites concentrate all information on a single landing page , making them effective and cost-efficient for launching special products or services. Typically used by small businesses, they act as a digital business card , displaying contact information and advertising services. Animal Music Studios  utilizes engaging videos and a navigation menu at the top to guide users to the different sections of the one-page site. News News websites present news articles, current events and other relevant information. They often include details like videos and images to support their stories. News sites update regularly and can be categorized into different sections such as world news, politics, sports or entertainment. As more individuals consume news online, newspapers have adapted by transitioning to digital. Many magazines and newspapers now offer subscription-based news sites as they no longer rely on print editions.  New Wave Magazine  is a digital publication that also offers print editions. Readers can access articles on their website and purchase print copies through their online store. Portal Portal websites are primarily used within educational institutions like schools and institutes, as well as businesses. They make things easier by providing various functions, including a secure login process for students to view their information like grades and schedules. Employees also benefit from these websites, as they offer a convenient way to access emails, alerts and other relevant information needed for day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Jule Dancewear , is a small business that sells dance apparel. They have a website where customers can create an account to save their profile information, view order history, save blog posts they are interested in and create wish lists of products they may want to purchase in the future. Forums Forum websites bring people with similar interests together to connect and engage with each other. You can use timelines, chats or specialized forums to interact. Social networking sites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Reddit are great examples of forums where you can connect with others who share your interests. Brown Skin Brunchin  is a community for professional minority women. The website features a forum where members can connect by posting introductions, having discussions and sharing stories, ideas and photos. Membership websites Membership websites are built to offer exclusive content or experiences for registered users, often through a paywall. These sites usually include user accounts, dashboards and gated content organized by tier or subscription level. Depending on their purpose, members might get access to video libraries, premium articles, community forums or downloadable resources. These sites are popular with creators, educators, niche groups or professionals looking to share specialized content with a specific audience. They’re designed around consistent content delivery and engagement, often including progress tracking, exclusive newsletters or discussion boards to keep members connected. Educational websites Educational websites are designed to provide learning experiences through formal courses, casual tutorials or structured training. They often include multimedia lessons, quizzes, certification options and progress tracking to help learners follow a clear curriculum. These sites are used by institutions, tutors or independent creators. They can range from academic platforms to niche sites focused on specific skills or hobbies. Educational websites usually feature user accounts, discussion forums and resource libraries, giving learners the flexibility to move at their own pace while engaging with course materials in one place. Level5 CAD Academy  provides practical dental courses online to help dental technicians and staff become pros in Dental CAD/CAM applications. With interactive quizzes, real-time feedback and certificates, the platform ensures users build confidence, skills and expertise in their field. Booking websites Booking websites let users book appointments, reserve spaces or schedule services with ease. These sites usually include interactive calendars, service descriptions, availability updates and confirmation systems. They’re perfect for businesses like salons, hotels, healthcare providers and consultants. Visitors can check available time slots, pick from different services or packages and book appointments directly on the site. The design focuses on being clear and simple, often with account systems so users can manage bookings or check their history. Event websites Event websites are designed to promote and manage physical, virtual or hybrid events. They’re built to share details like dates, times, locations, agendas, speaker lists and registration options. Many include countdowns, ticket purchase features and galleries from past events to spark interest. These sites might support recurring or one-time events and often use branding to match the event’s theme. Some even offer interactive features like live streams, maps or downloadable schedules, giving attendees everything they need in one place. The Global Ethnic Dance Festival  website celebrates cultural diversity, unity and global traditions. It shares details about the festival's mission, performances and events, inspired by Sree Narayan Guru's vision of harmony and mutual respect. Personal websites Personal websites are a great way to share your work, achievements or personality. They often have a short bio, resume, personal projects and contact info, sometimes paired with a blog or portfolio. The design and tone give a glimpse into who you are and your style. Freelancers, students, artists and job seekers often use personal websites as a way to introduce themselves. These sites might include sections like testimonials, photo galleries or links to social media profiles. They’re a mix of professional and personal, making them perfect for networking and self-expression. Why you need a website Whether you are a small start-up or an existing company, the benefits of a website can not be understated. Increase competitiveness A website can enhance your brand identity and make you stand out among competitors.  With many businesses relying on online sales, having an engaging and well planned website can give you a competitive advantage. A business website  allows you to showcase your products or services in an attractive and informative manner, encouraging potential customers to choose your business over others. Reach a wider audience Reaching a larger audience beyond your local community is made possible by creating a website. With the internet, your business can be accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. This increases your customer base and opens up opportunities for growth and expansion. Cost-effective marketing 79% of online buyers  shop at least once per month. If you want to attract more people, one of the best ways is by making yourself visible on Google. You can employ search engine optimization (SEO) methods to help your website rank organically. Sell products and services online With an eCommerce website, you can sell your products and services online, reaching a wider customer base. This allows for 24/7 sales potential and removes geographical limitations. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular, making it essential for businesses to build an eCommerce site . How to create a website Now that you've learned about how websites work and the different types of websites, you might be considering one for your business. Let's explore what you'll need to start your own website. With this knowledge, you'll be empowered to build a website that suits your business needs. Ready to set up your website? Watch the 10 most essential Wix tutorials  to get started. Outline your website idea The first step is to have a clear idea of what you want your website to achieve. This will help you determine the type of website that best suits your needs and goals. Consider what products or services you offer, who your target audience is and how you would like to present your brand online. Learn how to plan a website  to help you in the following steps. Choose a domain name and web hosting Your domain name acts as the digital address of your site so users can easily find you online. When selecting a domain name, it's important to pick one that reflects your brand and is memorable. Avoid using hyphens and numbers and aim for a short domain name. If you're struggling to come up with ideas, try using our domain name generator  to find a suitable name.  Tip:  Use Wix’s domain name search to check if your desired domain name is available. Pick a website building platform Fortunately, creating a website has become very accessible even for people without a technical background. In fact, you can turn your website idea into a fully functional site using a drag and drop website builder and all of the functionalities that come with it.  Select a web hosting provider Once you've chosen a platform to build your website, you'll need a web host. Web hosting is the service that stores your website files and makes them available to your customers when they visit your site. Your host handles all the HTTP requests and delivers the necessary files to fulfill those requests whenever someone accesses your website. Web hosts also support you with backups, uptime and security maintenance. When selecting a hosting website , consider cost, features, security and support. Wix's free web hosting  allows you to easily scale your hosting as your online business grows. Design your website Creating a successful website involves more than just visual appeal. It's about establishing a cohesive brand identity, ensuring a user-friendly experience and utilizing effective web design elements. Consider factors such as your logo, color schemes and typography to reflect your brand's personality. When designing a website of your own, you can use website templates  that aligns with your brand and guides and prioritizes user interface (UI)  to provide seamless browsing. Check out these examples of web design inspiration. Learn more: What is web design? Add page content and optimize for SEO Your content is the heart of your website. Use engaging and informative material to attract and retain visitors. Your website should be easy to navigate, with a clear call-to-action on each page to encourage users to take specific actions, such as completing a purchase or signing up for a newsletter. When creating your website, keep search engine optimization (SEO) in mind. This involves optimizing your website to improve its ranking on search engines like Google. This will help increase your visibility and drive more traffic to your site. Some tips for optimizing your website include using relevant keywords, creating high-quality information and ensuring fast page loading speeds. Learn more: What makes a good website Launch and maintain your website Once you've completed all the necessary steps, use a website checklist  when launching a new website . However, building a successful online presence does not end here. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your site up-to-date. This means updating pages, monitoring for any technical issues and keeping up with SEO techniques to maintain or improve your search engine ranking. Additionally, regularly checking in with your audience and collecting feedback can help you continually improve and enhance your website's performance. What is a website FAQ What is the most common website type? The most common website type is a business or eCommerce website, followed by personal websites  and blogs. However, this can vary depending on the purpose and industry of the website.  With so many website types available, there is certainly one that will suit your needs and goals. What is the role of the DNS in a website? Domain Name System , or DNS is responsible for translating domain names  into IP addresses. This allows users to easily find websites by typing in a web URL instead of having to remember the numerical IP address associated with it. DNS is crucial for the functionality and accessibility of websites.  What are website cookies? Website cookies are small text files that are placed on a user's device when they visit a website. They track and store information about a user's online activity, such as their preferences and browsing history. Cookies help websites remember users and provide more personalized contact with your website. However, websites must comply with privacy laws and inform users about the use of cookies on their site. Why do some websites look different on my phone? Websites can look different on mobile devices due to responsive design. This means that the website is able to adapt and adjust its layout based on the size of the screen it is being viewed on, providing a better user experience. Some websites also have a separate mobile version specifically designed for smaller screens. Businesses should have a responsive or mobile-friendly website to accommodate the growing number of users accessing websites on their phones. How much does it cost to build a website? The cost of building a website  can vary depending on various factors such as the platform, design considerations and hosting services. It can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars for more complex and customized websites. However, there are also options for free or low-cost website builders available. When deciding the best option for your website, you should take into account your budget and goals. What is a website title? A website title  is a concise and descriptive name given to a website. It serves as the main heading or name of the website and is typically displayed at the top of the browser window or in search engine results. The website title helps users understand the purpose or topic of the website and can also have an impact on search engine optimization (SEO) by including relevant keywords. How does a website CMS function? A content management system (CMS)  is a software platform that allows users to create, edit and publish digital content on their websites without needing advanced coding skills. It provides an intuitive interface for managing all website elements such as design, layout, text, images and more. A CMS also enables multiple users to collaborate and contribute to website content, making it a valuable tool for businesses and organizations. What's a static website? A static website is a site with fixed content, where each page is pre-built and displays the same information to every visitor. It doesn’t change unless manually updated. Static websites are fast, secure and ideal for portfolios, blogs or informational sites since they don’t rely on databases or dynamic content. What's the difference between a static and dynamic website? A static website has fixed content that doesn't change unless manually updated. A dynamic website generates content in real-time, often using databases and user interactions, allowing for personalized or frequently updated information, like social media sites or e-commerce platforms.

Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix→  A website title is a short phrase that appears at the top of a web browser  window or tab, identifying the currently viewed webpages . A browser typically displays a website title alongside the favicon (the icon on the left of the tab), and in search results engines website titles appear as bold hyperlinked texts. As you work on deciding how to make your website , consider your website title for your homepage , and any pages on your website. For example, if you visit the Wix blog  and look at the top of your web browser tab, you will see the website title "Wix Blog | Web Design & Small Business Tips to Promote Your Site" You can find the website title in a web page’s HTML  code. It's typically contained in the head element, within the title tag. For example, the code for the previously mentioned page would look like this: It is important to note that the website title can differ from a title tag and an article title. Title tag: A title tag is an element that specifies a web page’s title within the head element of HTML code. Search engines use title tags to understand a web page’s content. Often, title tags appear as a web page’s title on a search engine results page (SERP). Article title:  An article title is the headline or title of a specific article or blog post within a website. It is typically displayed at the beginning of the article or post and summarizes the article’s main topic. Use Wix's website builder  to create your site from start to finish. Why website titles matter Website titles play a significant role in both search engine optimization (SEO) and user experience. When it comes to SEO, search engines use website titles to understand a web page’s content and determine if it is relevant to a particular search query. A well-written and descriptive website title can help a web page rank higher in search engine results pages, which can lead to increased visibility and traffic. Website titles also allow users to quickly and easily identify a web page’s content as well. When a user performs a search on a search engine, the results page presents a list of relevant web pages, each with its own website title. A clear and concise website title can help a user determine the most relevant result for their query and encourage them to click through to the web page. Therefore, strong website titles increase website traffic, click-through rates, and sales. Website titles should be unique and accurately describe the content of the web page. Search engines may penalize websites for spammy or misleading titles. Learn more: What makes a good website Best practices for website titles Follow these tips to ensure that your website titles effectively attract visitors and improve your search engine rankings: Use the "4-U's formula":  The 4-U's formula is a useful tool for creating descriptive and compelling website titles that are both descriptive and compelling. The formula suggests that website titles should be: Unique:  Each web page on your website should have a unique title that accurately reflects the web page’s content. Having multiple pages with the same title on a website can confuse search engines and negatively impact your SEO. Useful:  A website title should provide value to the user and clearly communicate the web page’s main topic or theme. Urgent:  A website title should create a sense of urgency or importance for the user, encouraging them to click through to the webpage as soon as possible. Use strong action verbs and create a sense of curiosity or excitement. Ultra-specific:  A website title should be as specific and focused as the content it describes. Keep it short:  Website titles should be concise and to the point. Keep website titles under 60 characters, as search engines may truncate longer titles in search results. Use relevant keywords:  Including relevant keywords in your website titles can help improve your search engine rankings and make it easier for users to find your website based on their intent. Consider the user:  When creating a website title, consider your target audience’s needs and interests. They will more likely click on a website title that seems relevant and valuable to them. Test and optimize:  Use website analytics tools to track the performance of your titles and make adjustments as needed. Website titles examples Here are some examples of website titles from the Wix blog: "Is Wix SEO Friendly?" This website title effectively communicates the main topic of the web page (whether Wix is SEO friendly) and includes the name of the website ( Wix.com Blog) to provide context and credibility. "How to Create a Professional Portfolio Website: A Step-by-Step Guide" This website title clearly states the webpage’s main topic (how to create a professional portfolio website) and also sets expectations for how the content will be delivered (step-by-step guide) to encourage users to click through. "The Top 10 Wix Apps to Boost Your Online Presence" This website title highlights 10 Wix apps that a user can use to improve their online presence. It also includes the name of the website ( Wix.com ) to provide context.

Get your professional business email address →  Email security protects your messages, accounts and data from unauthorized access, phishing attacks and other threats. Whether you're using a business email address  to run a business or managing personal correspondence, understanding email security helps protect sensitive information from cybercriminals. Email includes everything from spam filters and encryption to authentication protocols that verify sender identity. This guide walks you through what email security is, why it matters and how to implement it effectively. Learn more: what is a business email? TL;DR: what is email security? Short on time? Here's what you'll find in this article: Topic Key points Definition Email security is a collection of practices and technologies that protect email accounts and communications from threats like phishing, malware and unauthorized access. Benefits Prevents data breaches, protects brand reputation, ensures regulatory compliance and maintains customer trust. Common challenges Phishing attacks, spam overload, account compromise and balancing security with usability. Examples Spam filters, two-factor authentication, email encryption, SPF/DKIM/DMARC protocols. Getting started Enable built-in protections, use strong passwords, implement authentication protocols and educate your team. Get your business email up and running fast. Wix provides built-in security, plenty of storage and real-time tools to help you stay on top of your work. Everything’s backed by 24/7 support so you can focus on growing your business. What is email security? Email security refers to the methods used to protect email accounts and communications from threats. These threats include phishing scams, malware attachments, spam and unauthorized account access. A comprehensive email security strategy combines multiple layers of protection. Spam filters catch unwanted messages before they reach your inbox. Encryption scrambles message content so only intended recipients can read it. Authentication protocols verify that emails actually come from who they claim to be from. For businesses, email security also means protecting customer data, financial information and proprietary content that travels through email channels. A single compromised email account can expose an entire organization to data breaches, financial loss and reputational damage. Modern email security solutions use machine learning to identify suspicious patterns and adapt to new threats. They analyze sender behavior, message content and attachments to flag potential risks before they cause harm. You may also be interested in how to set up a business email . Benefits of email security Protects sensitive data Strong email security prevents unauthorized access to confidential information. Business communications often contain customer details, financial records and strategic plans that competitors or criminals would love to access. Maintains customer trust When customers share personal information via email, they trust you to keep it safe. A data breach can destroy that trust instantly. Robust email security demonstrates your commitment to protecting customer privacy. Ensures regulatory compliance Many industries require specific email security measures. Healthcare providers must comply with HIPAA. Financial institutions follow strict data protection regulations. Failing to meet these standards results in hefty fines and legal consequences. Prevents financial loss Phishing emails often trick employees into transferring money or sharing login credentials. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, business email compromise scams resulted in $2.77 billion in losses in 2024. Email security measures block these attempts before they succeed. Reduces spam and improves productivity Spam filters remove unwanted messages, allowing your team to focus on legitimate communications. The average office worker receives 121 emails per day, so eliminating spam means more time for work that actually matters. Learn more: how to get a business email for free . Common challenges of email security Sophisticated phishing attacks Cybercriminals constantly refine their tactics. Modern phishing emails often look identical to legitimate messages, making them difficult to spot. They may spoof trusted brands, use urgent language or create fake login pages that capture credentials. The solution? Train your team to recognize warning signs like unusual sender addresses, unexpected attachments and requests for sensitive information. Combine education with technical controls like email authentication and link scanning. Balancing security with usability Strict security measures can frustrate users. Multi-factor authentication adds extra steps. Aggressive spam filters may block legitimate messages. Finding the right balance requires testing and adjustment. Start with baseline protections and gradually increase security based on your risk level. Give users clear instructions for security processes and create simple ways to report suspicious emails. Discover more about website security and explore more website security tips . Managing multiple email accounts Many people juggle personal and business email accounts, each with different security settings. This fragmentation creates gaps where threats can slip through. Centralize email management when possible. Use a password manager to maintain strong, unique passwords for each account. Apply consistent security standards across all platforms. Keeping up with evolving threats New attack methods emerge constantly. Yesterday's security solution may not protect against tomorrow's threats. Security software requires regular updates to stay effective. Choose email providers that actively monitor threat landscapes and automatically update their protections. Stay informed about current scams targeting your industry. Learn more: how to set up a business email . Examples of email security Spam filters Spam filters analyze incoming messages and block those that match known spam patterns. They examine sender reputation, message content and embedded links. Advanced filters use machine learning to adapt to new spam tactics. Two-factor authentication (2FA) Two-factor authentication requires two forms of verification before granting account access. You enter your password, then confirm your identity using a code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app. Even if someone steals your password, they can't access your account without the second factor. Email encryption Encryption converts email content into unreadable code. Only the intended recipient, who has the decryption key, can read the message. This protects sensitive information from interception during transmission. SPF, DKIM and DMARC protocols These authentication protocols verify that emails actually come from the domains they claim to represent: SPF (Sender Policy Framework)  lists which mail servers can send email on behalf of your domain. DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail)  adds a digital signature to verify message authenticity. DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance)  tells receiving servers what to do with emails that fail authentication checks. Together, these protocols prevent email spoofing and protect your domain from being used in phishing attacks. Secure email gateways Secure email gateways sit between your email server and the internet, scanning all incoming and outgoing messages. They block malware, filter spam and enforce security policies before messages reach user inboxes. Read more: does Wix provide email hosting? Email security with Wix Wix, a website builder that helps businesses create professional sites, offers several built-in email security features: Business email protection Automatic HTTPS encryption Email authentication support Two-step verification Form and communication security 01. Business email protection When you purchase a personalized business email through Google Workspace on Wix, you get enterprise-grade spam and phishing protection automatically. Google's AI-powered filters block more than 99.9% of spam, phishing and malware before it reaches your inbox. Learn more: how does email work on Wix? 02. Automatic HTTPS encryption All Wix sites have HTTPS enabled by default. This encrypts data transmitted between your site and visitors, including any information submitted through contact forms or email subscription forms. 03. Email authentication support Wix supports SPF, DKIM and DMARC protocols for domains managed through the platform. These authentication methods verify that emails sent from your domain are legitimate, protecting both you and your recipients from phishing attempts. 04. Two-step verification Wix strongly recommends enabling two-step verification on your account. This adds an extra security layer, requiring both your password and a verification code to access your account. 05. Form and communication security For additional protection, you can enable CAPTCHA on your site forms to prevent automated bot submissions. You can also apply moderation settings for site communications, reviewing messages before they reach your inbox. These combined measures ensure your email and website data remain protected from common threats. Explore more cybersecurity basics . Strengthening your email defenses Email security isn’t something you set up once and forget. It requires consistent monitoring, strong password hygiene, two-factor authentication and regular software updates. From there, you can layer on additional protections depending on your business size, risk level and the type of data you handle. Technology plays a major role, but it’s only part of the solution. Even the most advanced spam filters can’t prevent issues if someone unknowingly shares login credentials in a phishing scam. That’s why combining secure systems with employee awareness and ongoing education is essential. For businesses building their online presence with Wix, strengthening email defenses is more streamlined. Wix offers custom business email addresses, giving you a business email to match your domain for a more professional and secure brand presence. Wix also offers business email addresses with Google Workspace integration, combining branded communication with enterprise-grade security features like advanced spam filtering and built-in threat protection. Pairing the right tools with smart security habits will create multiple layers of defense without needing deep technical expertise. Staying proactive, reviewing your settings regularly and treating your inbox as a critical business asset are email security best practices. Learn more: how to create an email with your domain . What is email security FAQ How do I know if an email is safe to open? Check the sender's email address carefully, as phishing emails often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but contain small differences. Be suspicious of urgent requests, especially those asking for passwords or financial information. Hover over links before clicking to see where they actually lead. When in doubt, contact the supposed sender through a different channel to verify the message is real. What's the difference between spam and phishing? Spam refers to unsolicited bulk email, typically advertising products or services. While annoying, spam is usually not actively harmful. Phishing emails, on the other hand, are specifically designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware. Phishing attacks target specific individuals or organizations and often impersonate trusted entities. Should I use my work email for personal accounts? No. Keep work and personal email separate. Using work email for personal accounts creates security risks: if your employer's system is compromised, your personal accounts may be exposed. Additionally, employers typically have the right to monitor work email, meaning your personal communications aren't private. Many companies also prohibit using work email for personal purposes. Can deleted emails be recovered by hackers? Emails deleted from your inbox typically move to a trash or deleted items folder, where they remain for a set period before permanent deletion. During this time, they're vulnerable if your account is compromised. Even after permanent deletion, emails may exist on backup servers. To truly protect sensitive information, use encrypted email services and consider whether certain information should be sent via email at all. What should I do if I clicked on a phishing link? Act quickly. Disconnect from the internet to prevent malware from spreading. Change your passwords immediately, starting with your email account and any financial accounts. Run a full antivirus scan on your device. Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity. Report the incident to your IT department if it involved a work account. Consider enabling fraud alerts with credit bureaus if you shared financial information.

Having spent years as a Wix Blog editor, I know that learning how to make a website  can be intimidating, even when using a website creator  that’s as intuitive as ours. I’m still discovering new and exciting ways to use it. That's why I think it's so valuable that Wix's YouTube  offers up so many step-by-step, expert-led Wix tutorials to elevate your understanding of our platform. So without further ado, here are the 10 most essential Wix tutorials. Set up your site: “Get to know the editor” Customize the layout: "Work with sections & strips" Make it your own: "How to customize your site themes" Add and edit media: "Add & customize media" Optimize your design for mobile: "Design your mobile site" Open an online store: "How to add products" Promote your site: "​​Get your website marketing-ready" Add some pizzazz: "Use images for navigation" Get strategic: "How to utilize Reports & Insights" Add your own code: "About Velo" 01. Set up your site: “Get to know the editor” Getting started is typically the hardest part of any creative endeavor—but that’s not necessarily the case with Wix . As Wix Editor Specialist Ali Flood explains in this lesson, you can choose to start with the AI website builder , a website template or a blank slate. “This video is going to take you through what templates are, how they work and how to choose the right one for you,” says Learning Designer Allison Shelton. “Then, it’ll show you around the Editor and explain what you can do.” In seven short minutes, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of the workspace. You’ll get a sense of the foundational design elements, including sections, site themes, layers, the media manager and the mobile editor. If you’re looking to go into detail, you can watch the full course that this lesson belongs to here: build your website with the Wix Editor . Read also: I built a Wix website for my mom—here's how it went 02. Customize the layout: "Work with sections & strips" When you’re working with the Wix Editor, understanding the functionality of sections and strips is paramount. Ali returns in this video to explain the difference between the two and how to take full advantage of the tools. Sections in the Wix Editor function as containers, ensuring that you can easily move, make quick edits or reorganize related content without affecting the rest of the webpage . “Things in the Editor are made in sections,” explains Allison. “Ali goes into what sections are, how to change the backgrounds of the sections and how to put things into your sections.” She also shows you neat aspects of this tool, including how to get AI-generated layout suggestions. Strips help you get creative with layouts without losing the structure that is so important for ensuring a user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing design. It’s also essential for creating a responsive layout (one that always looks good, regardless of the size of the screen it appears on), as the strip will scale proportionally and adapt the layout so that it still looks nice. 03. Make it your own: "How to customize your site themes" Because your site functions as a digital avatar, it’s the best opportunity to communicate your branding to the masses. Keeping the colors and typography in alignment with your style guide helps to reinforce that branding. Wix’s Site Theme feature makes this easy, in that you can update every single element on your site in a couple of clicks. In two and a half minutes, this video will teach you how this website feature works and how to take advantage of it. If you haven’t picked your brand colors or fonts yet, the Site Theme feature has matching colors and fonts to help you find the right match for your business. For example, if you’re starting an accounting business, the “technical” theme will likely be a better fit than the “retro-vibrant” theme. 04. Add and edit media: " Add & customize media " While pretty colors and cool layouts can draw your visitors in, informative images and video will make them want to stay. Therefore, deciding which to feature and learning how to edit them is a necessary skill. This video walks you through your options for uploading, editing and even creating media for your Wix site. “It also gives you best practices in terms of things like image size and site speed,” says Allison. “Then it takes you through cool features like how to mask your video or put in some vector art.” These features are among the many reasons Wix is one of the best website builders for photographers on the market today. Besides allowing you to upload imagery and video from your computer and your social channels, the media manager gives you access to free media libraries from Wix, Unsplash and Shutterstock. 05. Optimize your design for mobile: " Design your mobile site " Designing a mobile site is a vital, yet often overlooked, step in the website launch checklist . “It’s so important these days that all the function and design [of your site] is optimized for everyone on their phone,” says Allison. That’s why this tutorial is a must-see. It explains how to make the mobile version of your site leaner and simpler than the desktop version. This is vital because mobile users want to get things done fast—faster, even, than desktop users. Wix's AI capabilities automatically optimize your desktop design for mobile, but you can always use the mobile editor to make extensive customizations. Ali demonstrates how to hide sections that aren’t as relevant to mobile users and add elements that only appear on mobile, such as a welcome screen that’ll give your site a bit of extra time to load. She also offers some tips for designing for mobile: Optimize for readability: I don’t have to tell you that mobile screens don’t make reading easy. These tiny screens aren’t accommodating to large fonts, and they can make long paragraphs seem never-ending. Ali shows you how to reduce the size of your text or even change the typeface. Make navigation even simpler: Mobile users want everything at their fingertips—literally. Ali recommends either "freezing" your header menu so it always remains at the top of the screen or adding a "back to top" button so that navigating to a different page is nearly instantaneous. She also suggests making buttons larger to accommodate thumb clicks. Minimize scroll: A repeater on Wix is a list of items that have the same design and layout, but different content in each. This feature makes it easy to display and manage large amounts of content on a single page. In terms of mobile design, this is especially handy, because you can make tweaks (such as adjusting the vertical spacing) that apply to the whole layout, ensuring a cohesive and user-friendly mobile experience. 06. Open an online store: " How to add products " The Wix eCommerce system is pretty intuitive, so you don’t really need to watch this video to learn how to add products, but Learning Designer Henry Collie ups the ante by sharing tips he gathered from building his own shop. To start, he introduces you to a few integrations that can help you make your online business a success, such as the dropshipping builder and other Wix apps that will make migrating your existing store to Wix eCommerce a breeze. Finally, Henry shows you how to manage your inventory so that your product availability is always up-to-date. If you found this lesson insightful or already know how to add products to your shop, you can check out the entire course here: Get started with Wix eCommerce . Don’t waste any time— build your store with Wix today. 07. Promote your site: "​​ Get your website marketing-ready " In this lesson, Content Lead Kendall Breitman will guide you through the art of optimizing websites for conversions. You’ll learn how to make a good first impression—and encourage conversions right on the spot. “I would definitely recommend going through the whole course (" Promote and grow your business with Wix ") if you’re a business that needs to get going on getting found,” says Allison. “There are a lot of different ins and outs of promoting your site, whether you’re going to blast announcements on social media, add a blog or focus on SEO.” 08. Add some pizzazz: " Use images for navigation " If you want to make a website that leaves a lasting impression, this course—"Design your website with advanced features"—is for you. Led by UX Designer Robbie Sims, you'll learn how to use customized animations, interactive galleries, sticky videos, mobile welcome screens and more to deliver a truly unforgettable experience. While each lesson zeroes in on specific features, the real takeaway of this course is how limitless the Wix Editor is when you get creative with it. You’ll discover how you can leverage features originally designed for one purpose to create an element with an entirely different purpose. For instance, this lesson shows you how you can use the Subscribe Lightbox to create a drawer-like navigation menu and how to use the Grid Gallery to turn ordinary images into dynamic page links. 09. Get strategic: " How to utilize Reports & Insights " If your eyes glaze over when you’re faced with large amounts of data, you’re not alone. But you’re missing out if you let that stop you from capitalizing on the valuable reports and insights that you’ll find on the Wix Analytics dashboard. In this four-minute video, Henry gives you tips and tricks for using them to their full potential. He demonstrates how to customize the reports to your needs and how to interpret the data. It's worth noting that since the publication of this video last year, we've introduced an AI-powered Benchmarks report. This report can help you assess your site's strengths and weaknesses, offering insights to enhance your performance. Hungry for data? Explore Wix Analytics today. 10. Add your own code: " About Velo " Yet again demonstrating the boundless potential of Wix, this lesson introduces you to Velo , a full-stack web development solution that allows you to add your own code to your Wix website. Developer Advocate Joshua Alphonse takes you on a guided tour of the environment, highlighting its various features and potential. “Velo is a JavaScript-based language that is specific to Wix, but it’s really accessible to anyone with coding knowledge,” says Allison. Although Wix designed this tool with seasoned coders in mind, this lesson illuminates how useful it is for getting started on your coding journey. Joshua's demonstration reveals Velo's seamless integration with the drag-and-drop editor, allowing you to harness the power of both tools concurrently. Check out the entire Velo course here . Check out this explanation of the difference between web designers vs. web developers to find out whether web development would be a good path for you. Ready to put these lessons into practice? Sign up for Wix today.

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → So, you want to create a blog that will draw in tons of readers and eventually make you a profit. Good call. With people spending more time online than ever before, a high-quality blog that tackles an in-demand topic could be a very successful endeavor. That said, unless you’re breaking ground on a very new or different topic, there’s probably quite a bit of competition out there when it comes to this type of website . With this in mind, it’s really important that you consider which blogging niches will help you cut through the noise of everything already out the blogosphere . Let’s talk about why narrowing your focus is so important and then take a look at 120 most profitable blog niche ideas you can write about, and learn how to make a website around. Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  TL;DR: profitable blog niche ideas Choosing the right blog niche is a key step for any new blogger or entrepreneur. Discover profitable niche ideas across many industries and interests, along with practical tips on how to find the one that fits your passion, skills and business goals. Whether you want to build authority, attract a loyal audience or monetize your blog, focusing on the right niche will help you stand out and grow. We also break down what makes a successful blog, from having a clear focus and understanding your audience to delivering consistent value and keeping your voice authentic. Use these insights to pick a niche that’s exciting for you and promising for your business. Feature Why it matters Clear focus Narrowing your topic helps attract a dedicated audience and boosts your blog’s authority. Passion and expertise Writing about what you know and love keeps your content authentic and sustainable long term. Audience needs Understanding who you’re writing for ensures your blog solves real problems and keeps readers engaged. Monetization potential Choosing niches with clear opportunities (ads, products, sponsorships) helps you build a profitable blog. Consistency Regular, valuable content builds trust and encourages visitors to return. What is a blog niche? A blog niche is a specialized topic area that you’ll be focusing on when writing content. Blogging niches allow you to narrow down your audience and craft content that is much more relevant for them. As a result, readers are more likely to become blog subscribers and you’ll be able to build authority and position yourself as a thought leader. Plus, you’ll be making it much easier for search engines to identify what your blog is about and increase your chances of ranking on high positions, which in turn will bring even more readers. There are many types of blogs you can choose to focus on, ranging from the highly technical to the more personal or creative. Some of the most common ways of brainstorming blog niche ideas include: Industry based , such as a cryptocurrency or art blog. Audience based , by targeting audiences like small business owners, SEO professionals or newlyweds. Subject based , like news content and movie reviews. To understand how popular some blogging niches are, we took a look at traffic to well-known blogs by niche. Bear in mind, not all blogs will reach these traffic levels, but the numbers give some idea of how popular a blog niche can be or get. For example, the fitness blog, Men's Health receives up to 42 million visitors a month . Looking at food blogging, this study from RankIQ , shows that food blogging is the most profitable niche and it generates the highest median income for this type of bloggers. Food blogs also make up most of the blogs with more than 50,000 average visitors a month, compared to other blog niches. The second highest earning blog niche is personal finance. The four highest traffic generating blog niches are food, lifestyle, travel, arts/crafts, and they, according to RankIQ, make up 74% of all high traffic blogs. How to find your blogging niche Ready to get blogging? Get started with Wix  today. As you learn how to make a blog , choosing the right niche is crucial for building a strong foundation. Before we deep-dive into the pool of blog niche ideas, let’s take a look at some questions you should be asking yourself as you consider the different options. What are you passionate about? What do you have the most experience and knowledge in? Is this something that people are interested in? You’re most likely starting from a place where you have already considered the first two points. After all, you want to find a blogging niche that doesn’t bore you and about which you have a lot of things to write about. The third one, however, will require a bit more external research. In order to determine the potential reach of a niche, you’ll need to do some keyword research to prove the viability of its topics. Doing so will allow you to determine whether there is enough interest in the content for you to build a successful blog about it. Additionally, you’ll be able to see whether you’ll be able to monetize your blog through ads, sponsored content or a paywall in the long run. Tools like HubSpot's blog ideas generator  can help spark topic ideas. If a blog niche idea can’t check off all these requirements, then explore a different one. Even though the passion and experience might be there, it’s very hard to stay devoted to something that doesn’t reach a significant number of people or make you money. 120 best blog niche ideas to write about As you set out to start a blog and embark on your content creation journey, take a look at the following blog niche ideas list to see how you can specialize your content on some of the most popular blog topics. We've organized the following 120 blog ideas into 20 main categories: Finance Business Marketing Sales Design and development Technology Education News Entertainment Travel Food and drink Beauty and fashion Health and fitness Relationships Gaming Science and medicine Home ownership Lifestyle and hobbies Pets Your own journey 01. Finance Money management is something everyone is concerned with, from the adolescent working to get their first credit card to the entrepreneur wanting to exponentially grow their personal savings (see how to start a finance blog ). But there are ways to niche down and focus on a particular type of expert content. Cryptocurrency Frugal living Budgeting Saving for retirement Investing Financial independence NFTs Personal finance 02. Business Whether your audience wants to learn how to run a business or simply advance in their career, they will always turn to specialized business blogs for advice. Building a startup Entrepreneurship Freelancing Business finance management Productivity hacks Hiring and outsourcing How to start a business Starting an eCommerce business 03. Marketing Although marketing is technically part of business, they’re certainly considered an entirely different breed of blogs. There are many well-established marketing blogs in the space, so make sure you have a unique perspective or insights to bring to the table. Content marketing Social media marketing Email marketing Search engine optimization Pay-per-click advertising Copywriting Digital marketing Affiliate marketing YouTube marketing Advertising strategies Learn more: How to start a marketing blog 04. Sales There are many professionals across many industries who’d be interested in learning how to level up their sales skills, such as sales managers, sales reps and small business owners. As a result, you’ll want to choose a suitable topic niche for your sales blog and target audience. B2B sales B2C sales Sales process and strategy Sales hacks and templates Sales software and apps Sales management 05. Design and development Having a website is essential in today’s world. With so many people looking to create a strong online presence, it’s no wonder that they’ll need equally powerful content to guide them on how to design their own compelling website. Web design UX design Web development App development eCommerce Website security Learn more: How to start a graphic design blog 06. Technology Technology is transforming every inch of our lives. As such, it’s an overarching topic that could just as well cater to a business audience as a consumer one. Software reviews Business automation Consumer electronics Artificial Intelligence Apple products Android products Learn more: How to start a tech blog 07. Education Education is a good topic to get into if you want a future-proof blog. Whether your blog serves as an academic resource or points your readers to relevant institutions and programs, there are numerous ways in which you can narrow down your focus. Study hacks SAT prep Online courses Language learning College-to-career prep K-12 blog for parents Homeschooling Learn more: How to start a teaching blog 08. News While there are huge news publications that are impossible to compete with as a blogger, there are also creative ways to win in this space so long as you carve out a unique blogging niche for yourself. Local Sports (see how to start a sports blog ) Pop culture Politics Silicon Valley Investigative articles 09. Entertainment Traditionally a section within larger news publications, entertainment-focused sites have been rapidly growing with the popularization of social media. Nowadays, this highly popular category has developed a long list of potential blog niches ideas to center your content on. Movie reviews Music reviews TV show guides Celebrity gossip Celebrity interviews Arts and culture Learn more: How to start a music blog 10. Travel Travel blogging is about knowing exactly what your audience’s wanderlust looks like. Keep in mind that photography also plays a huge role in starting a travel blog , so make sure to add visual content. Local travel tips Travel deals Travel hacks RV life Digital nomads Living abroad 11. Food and drink If you have a strong culinary background or a passion for baking, it makes sense that you want to start a food blog . Rather than trying to write about every single dish or drink you’ve ever tried, focus on a blogging niche and use your blog as an excuse to continuously try new things. Restaurant and bar reviews Homebrewing Baking and cooking tips Vegan recipes Dieting tips Healthy eating Baby and toddler food ideas Recipes 12. Beauty and fashion Trends come and go in the blink of an eye, so consumers are always in need of fresh content and inspiration. Plus, that means you’ll never have to break your brain in search of new topics for your beauty blog or fashion blog , no matter which blog niche you decide to focus on. Product reviews Makeup tutorials Healthy hair Skincare tips Fashion trends Affordable beauty DIY 13. Health and fitness As people become more mindful about their physical and mental well-being, they’re starving for content that teaches them a better way to live and manage their emotions. This need can be filled by starting a health blog . Self-care Men’s health Women’s health Mental health Sports Workout and exercise routines and tips Coaching tips Learn more: How to start a fitness blog 14. Relationships There are many kinds of relationships one will have to navigate over the course of their lives and it never gets easier. A relationship blog that’s relatable and empathetic is very likely to resonate with readers. Co-living tips Dating Wedding planning Pregnancy Parenting Navigating divorce Learn more: How to start a Mom blog 15. Gaming Games are a well-loved pastime that simply doesn’t get old. From board games to video games, most platforms and series tend to have strong fan bases, which means a very avid readership if you can nail the type of niche content they’re looking for. See our guide on how to start a gaming blog t o learn more. Game reviews Gaming tips, tutorials, and walkthroughs Playstation games XBOX games RPGs Board games 16. Science and medicine Whether it has grounding in our world or worlds beyond, people are fascinated by science, nature and medicine. Most content in these blogging niches requires a close attention to detail, lots of research, and statistical proof—so be prepared. Medical news and breakthroughs Medical condition-specific blogs Psychology Science stories and interviews Environmentalism Outer space 17. Home ownership Marie Kondo isn’t the only person who can get people excited about what they can do to make their homes look and feel better. And as people spend more time at home, they’re going to look for newer ways to spruce things up in. Interior design Tiny home trends and inspiration Organization hacks Home renovation Moving cross-country Feng shui DIY (do it yourself) Learn more: How to start a real estate blog 18. Lifestyle and hobbies This all comes down to what you’re personally interested in, how large of a community there is around it and the variety of content you can cover. It can be anything from book blogging to photography. Photography Writing DIY hacks Arts and crafts Knitting Books Gardening Learn more: How to start a lifestyle blog 19. Pets People are in love with their pets… and with other people’s furry companions. As such, animal-centric blogs can serve as valuable resources for pet owners, but can also be entertaining distractions for others. Dog parenting tips Dog training Inspiring pets Adopt-don’t-shop stories Cute animal pics and memes Pet health and wellness 20. Your own journey Have you survived an illness? Come back from a huge loss? Visited all 50 states in the U.S.? Starting a personal blog to tell your unique story can inspire others who want to hear and learn from you. Successful entrepreneurship Nomadic lifestyle Child-free life Gambling addiction recovery Nightmare client stories Dealing with depression How to start a niche blog Once you’ve chosen your blogging niche, build a home for all your written content by taking the following steps: Choose a blog website template that embodies your blog niche and matches your tone and style. Be inspired by a wide range of blog website examples. Register a domain name that is memorable and makes your blog easily identifiable. Learn how to write blog posts that build your authority and organically rank on search engines. Then, check out these blog post templates for inspiration. Maintain your blog with great website performance and strong website security that keep your content continuously accessible to readers. Find ways to promote your blog to reach a wider audience. Read also: How to create a niche website Which blogging niche is best for you? Blogging is a vital source of content that not only establishes your brand’s voice and identity, but adds value to existing and potential users by providing them with authoritative trustworthy information that will help them throughout their user journey and engagement with your products/services. - Opyhr Hanan, Blog Growth and SEO Outreach Specialist The best blogging niches for you are the ones that you're most passionate about and knowledgeable in. It's important to choose a niche that you will enjoy writing about and that provides value to your readers. You should also consider potential profitability, but this shouldn't be the only factor in your decision. Make sure you're an authority in your niche so you can establish yourself as a trustworthy figure in your field. If you're not sure which niche is right for you, try brainstorming a list of topics that you're interested in and where you think you have something unique to offer. You can also do some research to see what other bloggers are writing about and what topics are trending. Once you have a few niche ideas in mind, you can narrow it down by considering your target audience and your goals for your blog. Do you want to write for a general audience or a more specific one? Are you interested in sharing your personal experiences or providing expert advice? Do you want to make money from your blog through advertising, affiliate marketing or selling your own products and services? Once you have a good understanding of your niche, you can start developing your blog content and building your audience. Here are some additional tips for choosing a blogging niche: Choose a niche that is evergreen, meaning that it will be popular for years to come. Choose a niche that is broad enough so that you have plenty of content ideas, but narrow enough so that you can become an expert in your field. Choose a niche that is profitable. You can do this by researching which niches have high-paying advertising opportunities and affiliate programs. What are the best blog niches for beginners? Choosing the right blog niche is essential for beginners and newbies to build a successful and enjoyable blogging experience: Personal development: topics such as self-improvement, goal-setting and time management. Make sure you share your own personal experiences and growth journeys. Budget shopping tips: draw on your own experiences of managing a household budget to write tips for others, including how to find the best grocery deals, or which stores are best for which sale items. Home decor : blog about budget-friendly home decor ideas, DIY projects and organization tips. Healthy living and fitness for beginners: write about simple workouts, include healthy recipes and other tips for getting fit. If this is something you've done with success, so use your experiences as you blog. Freelancing and remote work: share insights into freelancing platforms, productivity tips and work-from-home strategies. Beyond picking from these popular topics, it’s important to make the right choice for yourself. Start with a niche you know well and genuinely enjoy. Blogging takes time and effort, and working on something you’re passionate about increases the likelihood of long-term success. Stay realistic about competition. High-demand, profitable niches often attract significant competition. Instead of looking for a “low-competition, high-demand” niche—which is rare—find sub-niches within broader categories. These often have a balance of demand and opportunity to stand out. For instance, rather than “fitness,” narrow down to “simple fitness routines for working parents.” You can also use tools like Google Trends or keyword planners to explore which topics are trending and identify areas where there’s consistent interest. This helps validate your niche idea and ensures there’s an audience for your content. What are the best blog niche ideas for teenagers? When choosing a blog niche as a teenager, it's important to pick a topic that resonates with your passions and interests while also offering value to your audience: Teen lifestyle and fashion : cover the latest fashion trends and beauty tips. Study tips : blog about tried and tested study techniques, time management tips and how to handle stress at exam time. Tech and gaming: blog about popular online games and gadgets. Creative art projects : blog about your own creative projects, include tips for getting started Teen entrepreneurship : write about how teens can start a business of their own, while juggling school work and family commitments How to stand out with a unique blog niche idea in a competitive blogging space? There are a lot of blogs out there. Chances are the niche you choose may already be packed with other blogs and bloggers trying to make their mark. Even a unique niche, might not be as easy to break into as you first think. Standing out might take more effort. But here's how you can take your blog idea or niche and turn it into something people read. What personal experiences can you transform into valuable lessons for others?  Your own struggles and triumphs might resonate deeply with readers. For instance, how did overcoming a specific challenge change your perspective and what advice can you offer to those facing similar situations? If you're starting with a personal blog idea, this is a great way to go. What hidden skills or passions can you share that people might not associate with you?  Blogs thrive on authenticity. If you’re a corporate professional who paints or a traveler who thrives on DIY, how can you blend these interests to create unique content and reach similar unique communities. What local culture, history, or traditions do you know that others might overlook?  Whether it’s the untold stories of your hometown or a unique festival, how can you use personal anecdotes to bring these to life through your blog niche. How can you reimagine popular blog topics through your unique lens?  For instance, instead of a general travel blog, could you share how you plan trips around your passion, such as architecture, literature or food? Take your niche to another niche; a niche within a niche as it where. What ongoing journey could you document in real time?  Whether it’s learning a new language, starting a fitness journey or transitioning careers, how can you involve readers by sharing your progress, struggles and breakthroughs? Why even start a blog ? These experts explain why. Blog niche ideas FAQ What are some good blog topics? Often the best blog topics are those you're the most passionate about and know the most about. It's always easiest to write what you know and to write for an audience you understand. Interested in a lot of things? Maybe focus on blog topics that have been proven to be popular with online readers. Can you start a blog as a side hustle? Yes, you can start a blog as a side hustle. In fact, blogging is a popular side hustle for many people, as it can be a relatively low-cost and low-time commitment way to make extra money. To start a blog as a side hustle, you will need to choose a niche, create a blog and start publishing content. Once you have a following, you can monetize your blog through a variety of methods, such as advertising, affiliate marketing and selling your own products or services. What are the most profitable blog niches? The most profitable blog niches are typically those that are in high demand and have a high affiliate commission rate. Some examples of profitable blog niches include: Personal finance Health and fitness Technology Business Travel How do I choose a profitable niche for my blog? When choosing a profitable blog niche, it's important to consider your own interests and expertise. You should also choose a niche that is in high demand and has a high affiliate commission rate. Here are some tips for choosing a profitable blog niche: Consider your own interests and expertise. What are you passionate about? What do you know a lot about? Choose a niche that you are interested in writing about and that you have some knowledge of. Research the competition. How many other blogs are there in your niche? Are they well-established and successful? If there's a lot of competition, you may need to choose a more specific sub-niche. Check the affiliate commission rates. How much money can you make by promoting other people's products or services in your niche? You can use an affiliate marketing network such as ClickBank or Amazon Associates to find affiliate products and services to promote. What kind of blog topics are popular? Examples of popular blog niches include: Self-improvement: This niche covers topics such as personal development, productivity and self-help. Lifestyle: This niche covers a wide range of topics, such as fashion, beauty, food and home decor. Entertainment: This niche covers topics such as movies, TV, music and video games. Education: This niche covers topics such as online learning, homeschooling and test preparation. Which blog niches are most relevant in 2026? In 2026, the most relevant blog niches are Tech and AI, Digital Marketing and Health and Fitness, reflecting key global trends and growing consumer needs. Tech and AI blogs explore innovations like Web3, blockchain and software reviews, while digital marketing blogs help businesses thrive in an evolving online landscape. Health and fitness remain timeless with topics like mental wellness, nutrition and exercise gaining steady momentum. Personal finance, sustainability and lifestyle blogs also continue to grow, offering broad appeal and strong potential for monetization. What's a low competition blog niche? The more niche your topic, the lower the competition is likely to be for readership. Enjoy a diverse hobby? Writing about this could make your blog one of a kind. The same goes for very local or regional blogs focused on very specific areas or topics related to those areas. What are some emerging blog niches? Sustainable living: Eco-friendly products, green practices, and reducing environmental impact. Micro-influencer marketing : Using smaller-scale influencers for targeted campaigns. Remote work and digital nomadism : Tips and advice for working remotely and traveling. Can I combine multiple interests in one blog niche? Of course. Combining interests can create a unique and engaging blog niche. For example, you could blend your passion for travel with your love of photography in a blog focused on travel photography tips and destinations. The key is to find a natural connection between your passions and create content that caters to a specific audience. How to check the potential profitability of a blog niche? You should research existing blogs in the niche to assess the competition and their monetization strategies. Analyze keyword search volume and competition to gauge potential traffic. How can I generate new blog post ideas consistently? To generate blog post ideas consistently: Follow industry news for ideas Use keyword research tools, like Ahrefs Answer common questions around your niche Analyze competitors and what they write about Repurpose existing content Use idea generators Should I focus on evergreen content or trending topics? You should balance both. Evergreen content provides long-term value and trending topics attract immediate interest. Mix the ratio depending on your niche and how trendy it is. What tools can help me find blog post ideas? Some useful tools for blog ideas are: 1. Google Trends 2. BuzzSumo 3. AnswerThePublic 4. Ubersuggest 5. Feedly 6. Quora 7. Reddit 8. HubSpot's Blog Topic Generator 9. Twitter/X trends 10. Google Keyword Planner

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → There are more than 600 million blogs active globally, and for good reason. Whether it’s part of your hobby or profession, blogging comes with a variety of benefits. For businesses, creating a blog is a powerful marketing strategy. Not only does it strengthen your SEO, but it also establishes your authority in the field and helps build connections with your target audience. Blogging has similar advantages when used by hobby bloggers and professional writers, too. It’s an invaluable tool for expressing yourself online and exploring your passions. It’s also an effective way to become a leading voice in your niche, develop your personal brand, and even make money online. Whatever your reason for blogging, it’s become a crucial way to build your online presence, figure out how to make a website and share your insights with the world. Below, we’ve put together some ideas on blogging for beginners to help you get started with this type of website. Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  Blogging tips for beginners Choose a blog niche Research your audience Draw inspiration online Learn what people are searching for Use keywords strategically Structure your blog by category Create an editorial calendar Start with an outline Use data and research Write powerful copy Incorporate different content types Use a variety of visuals Include clickable CTAs Develop a powerful linking strategy Prioritize long blog posts Keep your content up-to-date Create a blog newsletter Promote your blog on social media Expand your online presence Monitor your blog analytics Take advantage of monetization opportunities 01. Choose a blog niche When creating a blog as a beginner, you need to have a specific focus or niche in order to attract readers. Ideally, you’ll choose a single, broad topic that you’ll be able to explore in-depth. But how do you decide what to focus on? First, think about your goals. Do you want to promote your business? Share information or explore your passion? Make money from your content? Whether you’re aiming to write about your industry, dive deep into your personal interests, or monetize your site, contemplating your overall objectives can point you in the right direction. Read also: Why start a blog? Whichever blog niche you choose, it’s going to become the defining feature of your online presence. With that in mind, make sure to focus on an area you’re experienced in and genuinely excited about. Some of the most popular types of blogs are: Business blogs Finance blogs Tech blogs Marketing blogs Travel blogs Food blogs Lifestyle blogs Personal blogs Fashion blogs Health blogs Food blogs Craft blogs Teacher blogs Mom blogs Coaching blogs Photography blogs Sports blogs Based on your experience, you may want to niche down even further to cater to a specific audience. For instance, within the niches of European travel or cooking, you may opt to focus specifically on budget travel or vegan food. If you’re unsure of what niche to choose, browse these blog examples to help guide you. Then, choose a blog template to get started. Learn more: Blogging vs. freelance writing 02. Research your audience One of the biggest beginner blogging mistakes ? Not knowing your audience. In addition to determining what you’ll be writing about , you’ll need to identify who you’ll be writing for . Based on the kind of subject matter you expect to create, consider the types of people who will be reading your blog. Business professionals? Yoga enthusiasts? Expecting moms? Then, jot down some of their interests, pain points and needs. Based on what you know about their personalities, brainstorm what subjects will interest them or what issues they might be facing. Keep these ideas at the front of your mind when coming up with blog topics and while writing the content itself. For every article you create, you should have a clear understanding of why that particular piece of content will offer value to your readers. 03. Draw inspiration online As a beginning blogger, you’re also probably wondering how to come up with blog topic ideas . Brainstorming, of course, is a great strategy. But it’s also helpful to conduct research in order to find out which subjects are in-demand. Start by checking competing blogs in your industry. Keep an eye out for what topics they’re covering. You can use a competitor analysis tool like BuzzSumo to identify which of your competitors’ articles are performing best - that is, which ones get the most clicks or social media shares. It’s also a good idea to keep tabs of trending content. Here’s how: Browse online courses within your niche that people are paying for, like Udemy , SkillShare , and LinkedIn Learning . Stay on top of current events and trending news stories in your industry. Check out Q&A feeds from platforms like Quora . Research bestselling, top-rated or newly published books. Take a look at trending search topics using Google Trends . In the image below, for instance, you can see that vegan recipes are more in-demand than paleo recipes, but that both have a steady stream of interest. Based on your research of popular and high-performing topics, start building a list of topic ideas for your articles. 04. Learn what people are searching for As you build your list of topics, you’ll want to do a bit of keyword research. This is the practice of targeting specific words and phrases in your article based on what your audience is looking for on search engines. You don’t need to be a keyword research expert, but it is useful to know which terms people are searching for. Not only will this help you write content that better resonates with your audience, but it will also help you rank higher in search results - ensuring your content actually gets read. While keyword research might sound intimidating, it’s actually quite simple. There are several blogging tools available - some of them free - that will point you to the right keywords. These include: Answer the Public (free) Ubersuggest (free) Google Keyword Planner (free) SEMrush Ahrefs Once you’ve identified the main keyword you want to target for a particular topic, do a quick Google search of that keyword. Read through the top 10 articles to get an idea of what they’re talking about. There’s a reason they’re ranking in the top 10, so you’ll want to make sure your blog post covers similar subject matter. 05. Use keywords strategically In addition to doing keyword research to understand what your audience wants to read about, you should also incorporate those keywords into the text. First, it’s good practice to add keywords to both the title and body of your article. This helps Google get a clear understanding of what your article is about. When you upload your post, be sure to also include keywords in the following places: URL: For example, www.myblog.com/blog/ strategic-keyword . Meta title: This is the blue title you see in Google search results. Meta description: This is the short paragraph beneath the blue title in Google search results. Alt text: This is text you add to your images to make them “readable” for search engines (more on that in step 12.) It’s important to note that your keywords should fit naturally within the text. Repeated, indiscriminate use of keywords is called keyword-stuffing, and this is a spammy practice that can harm your SEO. 06. Structure your blog by category Just as you’d organize your closet by category, you’ll want to take a similar approach with your blog. If you’re just starting your blog, format it in a way that makes it easy for readers to find what they’re looking for. For instance, you may want to add overarching topic categories to the navigation menu. Google also appreciates this structure - in fact, its algorithms take website structure into account when determining which posts to rank among the top search results. So, having neatly organized blog categories is beneficial on all fronts. For example, Blogging: Build Your Own Blog 07. Create an editorial calendar When it comes to blogging for beginners, consistency is key. In order to build a successful blog, you’ll need to churn out content on a regular basis. Continuous publishing is a sign that your blog is a voice of authority in your field, and that your content is fresh and up-to-date. On top of that, Google’s algorithm rewards blogs that publish frequently. Ideally, you’ll be able to publish an article at least 2-3 times per week. If that’s unrealistic for you now, start with just one a week, and take it from there. The most important thing when getting started is to commit to a realistic, achievable publishing schedule. To hold yourself accountable, create an editorial calendar. Open up a file on Excel or Google Sheets, and add a few columns to help you keep track of your schedule. On our own editorial calendar, we like to include separate columns for the topic idea, publishing date, keyword, and progress status. In order to meet your deadlines, make sure to brainstorm topics and do all the research in advance. Be sure to allow time not only for writing the content, but also for selecting media and editing your posts. If you need more hands on deck, try opening up your blog to guest writers. Many writers, as part of building their own reputations online, look for opportunities to contribute articles to sites other than their own. 08. Start with an outline Once you have an idea for a topic and the approximate word count, you’ll want to plan out the structure of your articles. This is a crucial step for producing a strong piece of content. Your outline should contain three main elements: Introduction: This will be the opening paragraph of your article. In your outline, add a few bulleted notes with some ideas you’d like to include your intro. Body: This will be the meat of your article. Use your outline to organize all of your thoughts. Each main idea should have its own section within your article. Jot down the main points you’d like to include in each of these sections, as well as some examples to illustrate your points. Conclusion: This will be the final 1-2 paragraphs of your article. While not every article needs to have a concluding section, it is a nice way to tie together all your main points. Wrap up your outline with a concluding section, and add a few bullet points with the ideas you want to include. If you’re stuck on creating your outline, take a look at these blog post templates for inspiration. They include a variety of blog content formats, from how-to posts to beginner’s guides to case studies. You can also learn how to use AI to plan and write blog posts . 09. Use data and research Let’s talk a little more about the content of your blog posts. In addition to giving your article a tight structure, you’ll also need to back up your statements. This is ultimately what makes for a persuasive, powerful and credible piece. On top of that, having a data-rich piece maximizes the chances that people will link back to your article on the web. Anytime you get a backlink to your article, this improves the post’s search engine rank. As you piece together the ideas for your article, do some research to find statistics that support your claims. For instance, don’t just say “More and more people are browsing the internet through mobile.” Say “About half of web traffic worldwide comes from mobile.” It’s a good idea to build this data into your outline before you start writing. See how the statistic above is hyperlinked? That’s exactly what you’ll want to do in order to give proper credit to each external source. Once you get more comfortable with blogging, you may also want to branch out into doing original research (e.g., conducting online surveys of your audience) and interviews. This will help you craft original content that the online world will turn to for authority and expertise. 10. Write powerful copy After you build your outline, you’ll be fully equipped to create your first draft. As you write your blog post , use your outline as a guide, making sure to include the following elements in your piece: Headline: Write a catchy and intriguing headline to draw the reader in and encourage them to click on your article. If you’re stuck, try out this effective blog title formula: number + adjective + keyword + promise to the reader . You can also use this title generator to jumpstart your imagination. Introduction: Like your headline, this is another place to hook your readers. Begin your introduction with a general appeal to your readers, and then transition into the topic at hand. Body: Elaborate on your article’s main argument, using the notes from your outline as a guide. Here are some tips to craft a strong piece: Make each main point a different section, with its own heading or subheading to break up the text. Include bullet points and numbered lists to vary your formatting and add visual texture to your article. Use examples and statistics to illustrate your points. Offer clear and actionable takeaways for your readers. Keep paragraphs short to maximize whitespace and improve readability. Opt for a consistent voice and tone that accurately reflects your brand. Conclusion: Summarize your main points in 2-3 sentences to remind your readers what you discussed. If you’re looking for comments and engagement, wrap up by posing a question for your audience - e.g., What do you think of these ideas? Or Anything else you’d like me to share? Finally, review and edit your article before publishing. Share your post with family and friends, and ask them for their feedback. It always helps to get more eyes on your draft, and it’ll boost your confidence to know you’ve done your best. For more tips on how to write and format your blog post, take a look at this blog post checklist . 11. Incorporate different content types Images aren’t the only type of alternative content to add to your articles. In the world of blogging, mixed media posts outperform words-only posts. Once you’ve gotten the hang of writing articles, try enhancing them by embedding a podcast or video within the post. You can provide even more value to readers by adding a link to a webinar or downloadable e-book on the same topic. On top of that, try repurposing some of your articles altogether into different formats so you can share them on different platforms. For example, you may want to start a YouTube channel with videos inspired by your blog content. Similarly, you could create a podcast of your own based on your articles, or write an e-book to share with your audience. 12. Use a variety of visuals Your writing is the core of your blog posts, but it’s not the only element to include. It also helps to add visual elements to your articles. In fact, articles get shared twice as much when they have one image per every 75-100 words. With that in mind, break up large blocks of text by incorporating images and videos. This keeps your readers’ attention on the page for longer and prevents them from getting bored or intimidated by so much text. Be sure to use unique, high-quality images to create a polished and professional piece. If you’re not able to use photographs of your own, you can get free stock photos from sites like Unsplash and Pexels . Once you upload the images to your blog, add alt text to optimize them for SEO. Essentially, this just means adding a short description to each image - ideally using keywords - that explains to search engines and screen readers what it depicts. This is an easy process available on nearly every blogging platform. (Note that this is not the same as adding a caption, since it ultimately won’t be visible on the published post.) If you’re looking for an image-rich blog template, take a look at this article on the best blog templates . You can also browse additional blog templates here. 13. Include clickable CTAs Do you want your readers to ultimately become clients? This may be the case if you’re blogging for your business , or if you’re selling items or services related to your personal brand. If this is your goal, you can design blog posts in a way that points readers to your products. Sprinkle calls-to-action throughout your post, especially toward the beginning of your article where you know readers will see them. CTAs are short, actionable phrases that get readers to buy or move them closer toward making a purchase - for instance, “Start my free trial” or “Book a 15-minute call.” You’ll want to add a hyperlink to your CTAs that takes readers to a registration, sign-up, or product page. Even if you aren’t selling products, you can still use CTAs to build engagement among readers and encourage them to explore your blog. For example, you can add CTAs that link out to other blog posts, or that encourage readers to subscribe to your blog newsletter. 14. Develop a powerful linking strategy If you’re just learning how to start a blog , it’s crucial to understand the importance of links in your blogging strategy. In general, there are three main types of links you’ll need to pay attention to: Internal links: Links within your blog posts that connect to other pages on your website or articles on your blog. This type of linking improves the SEO of your articles, and compels readers to further explore relevant pages on your site. External links: Links within your blog posts that connect to third-party sites. These come in handy when you want to cite an important study or statistic from an external source. Backlinks: Links from third-party sites that connect to your website or blog. This is a core part of building your blog’s SEO . The more backlinks you get from high-authority websites, the more credible your own site is in the eyes of search engines. Each of these plays its own important role, so dedicate time to implement links throughout your blog post. 15. Prioritize long blog posts Research shows that longer blog posts - those between 1,500 and 2,000 words - perform better and get more shares on social media. On average, the most effective blog post length for SEO in 2020 was 1,890 words. Why are long posts so effective? First, they give the reader an opportunity to explore topics in-depth, providing them with deeper value. They also let you establish your expertise and build your authority in the field. Typically, longer posts will even perform better for SEO, since they give you space to address the most important keywords around a particular topic. That’s not to say that you should forego short blog posts altogether. In fact, short blog posts do work well if they sufficiently explain a topic and provide the reader with exactly what they’re looking for. For the most part, however, you’ll want to prioritize longer articles when building your content calendar. 16. Keep your content up-to-date Another crucial blogging tip for beginners is to keep your content up-to-date. To begin with, you’ll want to prioritize evergreen content - blog posts about a timeless topic that will be relevant for years to come. But even with the most evergreen pieces, you’ll want to continuously update your posts to keep them fresh. An update can range from a light refresh to a full-on content redo. You can determine the extent you’ll need to update a post by analyzing its performance (more on that later). To keep track of updates, it may be helpful to add a column to your editorial calendar with a reminder to check on the article 6 months after it’s published. 17. Create a blog newsletter Even after you’ve published a month’s worth of articles, there’s still going to be a looming question. How will you get people to actually read and follow your blog? First, you’ll want to consider how to draw in people who’ve already landed on your site. Ideally, these people will become returning visitors - and not just one-time readers. To do this, send out an email newsletter, and encourage sign-ups directly from your blog posts. Add a CTA to your content that urges readers to subscribe so that you can start collecting email addresses. This will enable you to communicate regularly and directly with your audience, helping you turn visitors into loyal fans. You can also try out more creative ways of obtaining your readers’ email addresses. One option is to offer them a free resource - such as a webinar, e-book, guide, or template - that they can download in exchange for their contact details. This type of content is known as gated content, and it’s an effective strategy for getting subscribers to your blog. 18. Promote your blog on social media Next, there’s the question of how to get new visitors - people who’ve never landed on your blog before. A simple (and free) way to promote your blog is by sharing your articles on social media. Whether you’re promoting your blog on Facebook , Twitter or Instagram, give it a profile of its own, using your blog logo as the profile picture. Then, publish and share every blog post on your pages. Give microblogging a try to capture your audience’s interest and get them to click. In addition to sharing these articles on your own, you can encourage others to do the same. Make your posts shareable by adding social media share buttons somewhere on the page. At the end of your post, leave a small note asking readers to share your content. 19. Expand your online presence Social media isn’t the only way to gain exposure. There are several other creative ways to establish your presence as a blogger and become known in your field. These include: Networking with other bloggers in your niche, either online or at in-person meetups, and inquiring about cross-promotion opportunities. Being active in online communities , such as a social media page or forum about your industry. Writing guest posts on external sites increasing blog traffic , gain backlinks, and expand your reach. Your readers are out there somewhere; you only need to find them. Reaching out to others within your field and posting on external sites relevant to your niche are effective ways to start learning how to grow your blog . 20. Monitor your blog analytics Luckily, you don’t have to be completely in the dark when it comes to understanding the success of your blog posts. There are lots of website analytics tools out there to help you analyze your performance. How many people read your articles each month? How many shares do they get on social media? Which topics seem to interest your readers the most? Evaluating this data is a fundamental part of starting a blog, since it teaches you where you need to improve and where to replicate your success. If you notice that a particular topic gets a lot of clicks or shares, create additional articles that relate to that theme or that use a similar style or format. Likewise, if an important article isn’t getting the attention you’d hoped, you may need to revisit it and consider updating or revising the content. 21. Take advantage of monetization opportunities Ready to start your blog today? Do it with Wix . As a beginner, you may not be thinking of monetizing your blog just yet. But we’ll leave you with one final tip that you can let marinate in your mind. After all, who wouldn’t want to earn some extra cash - not to mention a full-time income - through their blog? To make money blogging , you need to turn your traffic into revenue. Here are some suggestions for how you might go about it: Offer paid subscriptions with members-only access to exclusive content. Add affiliate links to a product (these let you earn a commission every time a reader clicks and buys). Sell merchandise related to your brand. Get paid by companies to write sponsored content. Provide consulting services to clients, using your blog as your resume. Add ads to your blog. This might sound like a lot right now, but let yourself dream big. Using these blogging tips, you may just be able to turn your blog into a powerful publication. Is blogging still worth it ? Read more with our take on blogging's current and future relevance. How to get blogging fast: getting started Once you have your niche chosen, starting a blog can be a very fast process. Choose a blog maker, including your unique domain name Select the right blog template Customize your templates — includes colors, fonts and layout of your blog and its posts Build a content schedule with ideas and timings, including posting frequency Get writing Publish Promote your blogs — either with SEO via social media or newsletters Repeat, repeat, repeat Blogging for beginners FAQ How can a beginner get started with a blog? Choose your blog niche, select a blog maker like Wix to build your blog on, design and create your site, then get writing blog posts and publishing. Can I start blogging with no experience? Yes, you can definitely start blogging with no experience. Many successful bloggers began with little to no prior experience and learned as they went along. Make sure to start with a niche you feel most passionate about or know very well. Do beginner bloggers make money? Yes, it's possible, but not guaranteed. It takes time, effort and dedication to build an audience and attract income. You can begin with advertising, content monetization and selling physical products. Is blogging still profitable? Yes. The blogging landscape has evolved, but there are more opportunities than ever to monetize your content. While quick riches aren't the norm, consistent work and smart strategies can lead to a profitable blog. How much does it cost to start a blog? Starting a blog is affordable. To get started, you'll need to pay for a domain name and web hosting, but these costs are typically very reasonable. For example, a domain name can cost around $10 per year, and web hosting can cost around $5 per month. You can also start a blog on a free platform. To learn more, see our guide on how much does it cost to start a blog  to estimate your expected costs.

​​ In an endless sea of information, standing out might seem impossible. But an effective content strategy can help you rise above the noise and reach the right people. Whether your business is just starting out or you want to revamp your existing content marketing efforts, you can find ways to make your strategy more efficient. In this article, we’ll define content strategy, then go over the basics of developing one. Whether you decide to create a blog or start a podcast, a website is key to every content strategy. Use Wix to create a website and connect all your content in one place. What is a content strategy? Content marketing is the practice of distributing valuable information to your target market. To optimize its performance, you need a content strategy. A content strategy is your plan for creating, monitoring and managing content. It should determine your goals, target market and priority formats, plus how your content will support your brand. A content strategy should also include promotional plans and set metrics to determine your content’s success. Learn how to build a smarter approach with an effective AI content strategy . How to create a content strategy Follow these steps to create an effective content strategy: Determine your target audience Define your goals Perform market research Choose your distribution channels Set your KPIs Decide what type of content to create Create a content calendar Analyze the data Reassess your strategy 01. Determine your target audience To tailor your content strategy plan, you need to first determine who you want your content to reach. For example, how old are they? What is important to them? What problems do they face in their day-to-day lives? Once you have a sense of their demographics and psychographics (which refers to more internal attributes such as interests and lifestyles), you can start figuring out what content they'll find valuable and interesting. Read also: How to create a marketing strategy with AI—and other marketing shortcuts you can master with Gemini for Google Workspace 02. Define your goals An effective content marketing strategy will include both actionable long-term and short-term goals that can translate into clear tasks with measurable outcomes. Brand awareness, for example, is a great goal for new businesses. Before you begin making sales, your customers need to find out about you. Business often achieve brand awareness on social platforms, so part of your marketing strategy could include creating a detailed social media calendar and creating content that will spark interest, foster engagement and improve your brand’s visibility. Once your content strategy plan has driven traffic to your website and social channels, you’ll next want to convert your leads into customers. You may want to include calls-to-action in your content or send out a newsletter to keep your leads engaged with your business. Consider these other content strategy goals as well: Elevate your brand Increase your revenue Retain your customers Attract talent Improve customer service Rebrand your company Ensure that each piece of content you release has a distinct purpose in your content strategy to move you closer to your goal. To do this, define SMART goals (goals that are “specific,” “measurable,” “attainable,” “relevant,” and “time-bound.”) 03. Perform market research You should also research what your competition does with their content. If your competition performs well on search engines, use tools like SimilarWeb, Ahrefs or Semrush to find out which keywords they rank for and get a sense of their strategy. In addition to finding out what your competition gets right with their content strategy, look for gaps in their content that you can fill. If they have a weaker social media presence compared to their organic search strategy, you might consider developing your strategy around social media. 04. Choose your distribution channels Develop one or two promising—and ideally complementary—channels. For example, a blog can work well with a Facebook or Instagram page, since you can build an audience and share your content on these platforms. According to Hubspot, 10% of marketers believe that a blog content strategy has the biggest return on investment of all marketing strategies. However, Wix’s Head of Blogs Growth Judit Ruiz Ricart warns blogs can take years of investment before seeing returns. She suggests focusing on your website’s SEO and acquisition, then using social media to build brand awareness and a newsletter to keep interested parties in your network. Tip: If you’ve picked Google as your main distribution channel, check out the Wix SEO Learning Hub and Wix’s SEO tools. We also love this guide to topic clusters , which is the cornerstone of many content marketing strategies. 05. Set your KPIs Once you set your goals, set key performance indicators (KPIs) that determine if your content and distribution methods work. How will you measure your content marketing efforts’ return on investment? If, for example, you want to increase brand awareness, you wouldn’t make your KPI conversions. Instead, you would monitor website traffic or social media engagement. KPIs set expectations and ensure that you efficiently work toward your goals and they can help inform things like which writers to work with or how to utilize AI content generators and AI writing tools to your advantage. You could use these KPIs to measure your content marketing performance: Traffic Conversion rate Engagement Number of ranking keywords Organic visibility percentage Qualified leads Revenue 06. Decide what type of content to create Content marketing includes more than blog posts, landing pages, guides and webinars . You could also try memes, surveys, data visualizations, company news and contests. Let’s talk about nine useful types of content marketing and why you should include them in your content strategy plan: Ebooks: Like blogs, e-books provide helpful tips or relevant insights from your business. In addition to the value they offer existing customers, ebooks can attract leads. By “gating” an ebook, you can incentivize your target market to share their contact information or subscribe to your newsletter in exchange for your content. Infographics: You can repurpose your data-heavy, long-form content into infographics. Provide the key takeaways in a concise visual representation to create eye-catching and shareable content. Case studies: When you tell potential customers about the positive experiences your existing customers had working with your business, you offer them a reason to trust you. You can produce case studies in various formats such as blog posts or videos. Free tools: Ross Simmonds, founder of Foundation Marketing, explained in an email to Wix’s content team that free tools are some of his favorite content marketing assets and that many marketers overlook them. Unlike a blog that requires consistent investment, tools like checklists, templates, calculators and generators (like Wix's business name generator , for example) are effective for years, often without much upkeep. Videos: According to Hubspot, marketers see videos as the most popular form of content marketing as they’re highly engaging and shareable. Marketers believe that short-form videos—such as TikToks and Instagram Reels—and live streaming have the highest ROI. Use the Wix video maker to simplify the production process. Wix predicts short form video content will continue to trend in 2023 Market reports: Show off your industry knowledge with market reports to generate leads. Podcasts: Ruiz Ricart recommends working podcasts into your content strategy plan because you can start them easily and they organically attract listeners. This is also a great way to lead with user first content ideas . White papers: White papers are extensive reports that share research and data. Testimonials: User-generated content is invaluable—especially when working on a budget. Share quotes from reviews, social media comments and heartfelt emails from overjoyed customers on your website or social media channels. Whatever type of content you create, make sure you aim for quality first. If you're creating content for search, be sure to keep up to date with all the content lessons from Google's updates. 07. Create a content calendar When it comes to actually creating and distributing content, many people will enthusiastically publish content they consider good quality without considering whether it stays true to their strategy. A content calendar can solve this issue. Creating an editorial calendar will help you plan out your content for important events like product launches and holiday content marketing . It also helps you stay consistent with your publishing and distribution cadence. Eventually, you’ll develop a rhythm that your audience will notice and they’ll begin to expect content from your business on regular intervals. Developing an editorial calendar in advance can also help you plan your resources and set tasks for your team. Creating content and posting on multiple channels every day can overwhelm a small team. With a content calendar, you can manage expectations and also anticipate any additional resources or marketing tools your team might need. 08. Analyze the data Data analysis helps you determine how well your content performs, identify strategic areas to improve and monitor your target audience. Platforms such as Google, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram have integrated analytics systems. Additionally, Wix Analytics can tell you where your website traffic comes from as well as how people move through your site. Aside from determining success via content analytics and metrics, you should also speak and listen to your customers. Pay attention to how they interact with your content on social media and listen to the feedback they communicate in reviews, comments or questions on your blog posts. Often, your customers will tell you exactly what they like and don’t like. 09. Reassess your strategy While your content strategy’s end goal remains the same, the implementation is a cyclic process. Ruiz Ricart says that you have to restart or build upon your methods every six months: You set a small goal, choose the metrics that’ll measure your performance and create content you think will help you achieve those goals. Then, you analyze the data and set new goals for how you can improve or expand your content. You measure the performance on the new content and keep building upon your goals and your strategy until you can comprehensively cover your entire customer journey. 4 best practices for creating meaningful content As you move through the content marketing strategy process, keep these important things in mind: Start small Don’t build upon your strategy until you have a steady foundation. Start with very small, clear goals and set the metrics to measure them. Then, use that data to improve and test something new. Be realistic You should define your strategy by the time, money and resources you can invest. You won’t achieve anything if you spread yourself too thin. Tailor your approach to have a substantial impact. “Know what your resources are, know what you want to achieve in the short-term, then see what’s the best platform to allow you to do that,” said Ruiz Ricart. Prioritize quality over quantity According to a survey of marketers, 83% believe it’s more effective to create fewer pieces of higher-quality content than lower-quality content more often. Be nimble A good content strategy plan is adaptable. If you focus on Instagram and find out the platform prioritizes Reels, you need to focus on Reels. If you notice that your Stories perform well, you pivot your strategy to invest more in Stories. You might even find that your goals change. For example, most new businesses want to generate brand awareness. After the business achieves the necessary level of market penetration, it can adapt its content strategy to get more leads, encourage more purchases or increase brand loyalty. 3 content strategy examples Looking for some inspiration? Learn from these content marketing examples : Wix Over the years, Wix has developed a content strategy that spans the entire customer journey, with teams focused on creating the content customers need to progress through the marketing funnel. “Every single stage needs a very specific strategy,” explained Ruiz Ricart. With traffic as the primary KPI, the Wix Blog uses SEO to increase domain strength and brand awareness. Wix’s social media accounts are dedicated to brand elevation, with engagement as its KPIs. Landing pages are the primary conversion content, so the KPI is the conversion rate. Ahrefs Ahref’s provides informative blog posts as part of their content strategy. The content team markets an SEO tool, and they effectively rank on many relevant search engine results pages. But their articles focus on educating readers about their product, indicating a KPI in conversion or customer retention. Additionally, the Ahrefs marketing team spreads out their investment across a series of webinars, a strong YouTube channel, an engaging newsletter and a landing page for a beginner’s guide to SEO. Animalz Animalz, a content strategy agency with a fantastic blog, relies exclusively on direct traffic—a rarity in content marketing. They aim to sell through their thought leadership, and exemplify what can happen when you allow your content strategy to evolve as it grows. “I’m sure they didn’t start like that,” said Ruiz Ricart. “There’s no way the Animalz owner woke up one day and said, ‘I’m gonna write this amazing piece, people are gonna love it and they’re gonna come to us directly.’” They merely did what they knew how to do: Create content. The lesson here is to rely on your skills. If you’re a real estate agent who knows how to read the market, write an accessible newsletter for the average person who doesn’t want to buy unless the price is right. If you’re witty, try meme marketing. If you’re a wedding photographer, make dreamy slideshows to share on social media.

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → Starting your own blog can be an exciting and lucrative venture. Sharing your expertise with the world can attract an audience and establish your online presence. But, you may find yourself first asking— how much does it cost to create a blog ? Before you dive into the blogosphere , it’s important to be realistic about the costs involved in order to make it worth your while.  This article will outline the different expenses you may encounter from how to make a website  when starting your blog, to domain name registration and web hosting fees. Once you know the potential costs of blogging, you can make a better informed decision about how to pursue your blogging goals.  Learn more: How to start a blog Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  How much does a blog cost? If you make a website for free  on your own, a basic blog can start from free and cost as little as $16 per month. However, more complicated websites or ones that require the assistance of professionals like photographers, copywriters or designers, can cost upwards of $10,000. Let's examine the variables that can impact the cost of starting a blog. Learn more: How much does a website cost Can you start a blog for free? Yes, starting a blog for free is possible. There are free platforms and tools to help you kick-start your blogging journey.  Check out more on the best blogging platforms  to see which one is a good fit. While starting a free blog may seem like a great idea, before diving in, it's important to consider a few key points: Limited features and customizations : Blog platforms that are free may come with limited customizability options, which can make it difficult to establish your brand identity. Restricted growth : Free blogs often lack the necessary features and tools to help you grow your website traffic and monetize your content. Lack of ownership : The terms of service for free blog platforms can change at any time, meaning that your blog and its content could disappear overnight. Distracting ads : Ads on free blogs can sometimes detract from your content and make it less appealing to users. Security risk : Free blogs generally tend to be less secure than their paid counterparts, which can put your personal information and that of your readers at risk. You can also read more about is Wix good for blogging  and why. Ready to get blogging? Get started with  Wix  today. What bloggers really pay for: Common blog costs Here’s a detailed breakdown of some considerations that can influence blog costs. Included in each section, we've outlined the average cost ranges to help you estimate expenses. Domain name Website hosting  Website security Business email address Templates Logo and branding Email marketing tools SEO tools Social media tools Domain name Average cost range:  $0-$1,000+ per year While it may seem like a small detail, your domain name  plays a crucial role in establishing your brand identity and making your blog stand out from the rest. Getting a unique and memorable domain name can give your readers an idea of what to expect from your blog and help build trust and credibility with your audience. The domain name cost  varies depending on the provider and the type of domain you want (learn more about how much a domain name costs ). Tip: A Wix  premium plan , will give you a free one-year domain name voucher to offset your initial blog costs. Website hosting  Average cost range:  $0-$250 per month Website hosting  makes your blog accessible to readers all over the world via the internet. It involves a service that stores your website files on servers and delivers them when someone types in your blog's URL. The cost of web hosting can vary depending on the provider, package and level of service. Some providers, like Wix, offer free website hosting  as part of their website builder package. Investing in a reliable and trustworthy provider that offers the necessary features to meet your blogging needs is worth considering. From security to site speed, web hosting affects your blog's overall performance, impacting your users' experience and your ability to drive traffic and revenue. Ready to create a blog? Get started for free with the  Wix blog maker  today. Website security Average cost range:  $0-$200+ per year The costs of website security  can fluctuate depending on your platform or hosting service. Some providers offer basic security measures at affordable prices, while others may charge more for advanced protection against potential cyberattacks. Being proactive in protecting your blog can ultimately save you money and avoid the cost of dealing with a security breach. Tip: With Wix, security is already built in and included in the price when you start a blog. You’ll get 24/7 monitoring to detect vulnerabilities and keep both your information and your site visitors details safe.  Business email address Average cost range:  $0-$15 per month Creating a business email address  will give your blog a more professional look. Plus, it will streamline your communication efforts, keeping everything in one organized inbox. Investing in a business email address that includes your domain name is a relatively low-cost way to maintain a brand identity. The benefits of a business email address are worth the cost, including increased credibility, better delivery rates and improved brand recognition. You'll be able to communicate effectively with clients and readers, while also ensuring that your emails aren't getting lost in spam folders. Templates Average cost range:  $0-$70+ Templates are pre-designed   layouts or blog examples that help you create the look and feel of your blog without having to code each element from scratch. Templates can be helpful to solidify your brand’s visual identity while also organizing your site’s content effectively.   Check out these totally customizable and free blog website templates  to help you get started.   Logo and branding Average cost range:  $0-$10,000+ one time fee A memorable  blog logo , a well-defined brand identity and a carefully chosen blog name create a cohesive  representation of your blog that helps distinguish it from others in your niche. Your blog name plays a role in capturing the essence of your content and attracting your target audience. Combined with a unified logo and look, it fosters brand recognition and trust amongst your readers. The cost of developing a logo can vary depending on several factors, like the complexity of your design, the number of revisions you require and the expertise of the designer you choose. You can cut blog costs and create your own using a  logo maker  tool.  Use Wix's  blog name generator  to create a catchy and relevant blog name that aligns with your brand identity. Email marketing tools Average cost range:  $0-$100+ per month Having a strong email list of blog subscribers and readers is an invaluable asset when it comes to blogging. By collecting email addresses, you can start building relationships with your readers, making your blog a more meaningful destination. It's important to start building your email list as soon as possible. With email marketing tools , you have a way to engage with your readers and provide them with more content. Remember, the goal is to build relationships with your audience and make your blog a trusted and valuable resource. The cost to your blog can range depending on the number of subscribers you have and the frequency of emails you send. SEO tools Average cost range:  $0-$1,000+ per month When it comes to running a successful blog, paying attention to blog SEO —or search engine optimization for your blog is key. This is the process of optimizing your blog's content and structure to boost its visibility and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). There are a wide range of SEO tools—both free and paid, that can help you identify the best keywords to target, generate new post ideas and even learn more about your niche audience. By investing in SEO tools, you're giving yourself the best possible chance of making your blog stand out in an oversaturated market. Wix SEO  offers a comprehensive package of tools to help manage your blog’s SEO strategy. Other tools like Ahrefs , Semrush  and Keyword Everywhere  can be helpful to find relevant keywords for your blog content. These tools offer free and paid versions, so you can always upgrade as needed based on your blog needs and cost limitations.  Expert tip from Chaya Arbiv, SEO specialist at Wix: “If your blog isn’t easy to find online, it’s like writing in a diary that no one reads. Make sure your blogging tool offers strong SEO features, like meta tags and an easy way to control URLs. That’s how new readers will discover your posts.” Social media tools Average cost range:  $0-$100+ per month Repurposing or repackaging your blog content into social media posts or video content is a cost effective way to increase blog traffic . Social media tools can help plan long term content on multiple platforms and are designed to schedule and automate posting, driving traffic to your blog and easing the workload significantly. Tools like a Pinterest scheduler can pre-schedule blog content to also post on Pinterest. Additionally, using a  video maker  tool can streamline your efforts to turn blog content into video content for a range of social platforms.  Depending on the scale of your social media efforts, the blog cost prices will vary. Keep an eye out for free trials to test which tools are actually useful and maximize your blog content. You also want social media tools that not only schedule content but also monitor online conversations and analyze your data.   Main costs to build a blog review Beyond the basics: Other blog costs Whether you’re just starting out, or a blogging novice, there are other blogging costs to consider as you grow and scale your efforts. Consider these additional costs as you estimate how much it will cost to start a blog.  Hardware Having the right hardware is important to produce quality blog content—this includes a reliable laptop ($600 - $2,000), a smartphone with a good camera ($40 - $100 per month) and a strong internet connection ($20 - $80 per month). While all of these can add up, it's essential to invest in your tools if you want to produce quality blog content.  Blogging courses Consider investing in courses to help you grow as a blogger. These courses come in different levels, from beginner to advanced, and vary in price. Outsourcing content As your blog grows and you want to scale your efforts, you may look to hire external writers for a steady flow of fresh and captivating content. In addition, having freelance writers or content creators who are experts in their field will help boost your blog’s expertise, authority and trust—also known as EAT.  Like website designers, though, their rates will vary based on their experience. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $75 for a single blog post.  Paid plugins and apps Paid plugins and apps can bring powerful features to your blog that go beyond the basics. Free tools are great for getting started but premium options unlock advanced features like automated backups, image optimization, SEO tools , pop-ups, eCommerce add-ons and custom forms. These tools simplify your workflow, boost site performance and create a smoother, more professional experience for your audience. Costs typically range from $5 to $50 per month per app with higher-end tools available for bigger budgets. If you’re using Wix, a big plus is that many features are already built in or available in the Wix App Market . You can quickly add tools for email marketing, live chat, social media or bookings without dealing with technical headaches. Wix takes care of updates and compatibility so you can focus on building your blog instead of fixing tools. Adding a few well-chosen paid apps can make your blog run smoother and feel more professional. Blog costs using a web designer vs. a website builder When mapping out your blog costs, you might consider hiring a web designer  or using a website builder to initially get started.  Website builders, like Wix, offer customizable templates and drag-and-drop functionality, enabling you to design and launch a site quickly and inexpensively.  Web designers may offer a more hands-on approach. While designers can establish a unique brand identity and develop a website with specific features and functionality, this option can be more expensive and time-consuming. Ready to start your blog now? Sign up with  Wix  today. Types of blogs  As you delve into the world of blogging, there are many types of blogs  you can start, covering a wide range of subjects. From fashion and real estate blogs to book and food blogs, the possibilities are virtually limitless. The key is to choose a specific topic that will be the central focus of your blog and its content strategy. This will help you establish a strong brand identity and provide valuable information to your readers. Determine your blogging commitment When estimating how much it costs to start a blog, it's also crucial to assess your commitment level and set clear goals right from the start. This can help you evaluate not only the costs involved, but also your time and energy. Let's explore the different categories below to help you get started on the right track: Hobby blogging If you're seeking a creative and engaging outlet, consider yourself a hobby blogger. Starting a blog requires little to no financial investment, making it perfect for exploring your interests without a long-term commitment. Side hustle If you’re looking to build a profitable blog but short on time due to other priorities like a full-time job, family obligations or other commitments, think of your blog as a side project. Side hustle bloggers are dedicated to keeping their blogs updated and engaging with their audience. They're willing to invest some money for long-term growth and success. Full-time blogger As a full-time blogger, you understand that investing in your blog can lead to growth and revenue. By treating your blog as a business, you recognize the importance of higher costs like professional website design, marketing campaigns and tech support. These investments help you establish a strong online presence and attract more readers, boosting the success of your blog. Tips for starting a blog If you're thinking about starting a blog from a cost perspective, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Prioritize value over growth : Focus on building strong foundations for your blog, rather than solely chasing metrics and rapid growth. Take the time to assess your blog’s potential revenue, profitability and long-term sustainability before making significant financial commitments. Determine your needs : When creating your blog, start by carefully considering the key features that are essential. Think about the specific functionalities and elements that would best serve your blog's purpose and target audience. Take inspiration from Wix user Zion Adventure Photog , a local photography group in Zion National Park. They effectively use a blog to provide tips and guides for planning an adventure in the park while promoting their photography services. With a blog focused on photography, you might prioritize features like a responsive image gallery, customizable image layouts and integration with social media platforms for easy sharing. Plan for the future : When considering the growth of your blog, it's important to envision how it will evolve over time. Think about the potential expenses that might arise as a result of this growth, such as hosting fees, marketing campaigns and hiring additional team members.  Be specific:  Finding a specific blog niche idea  is more profitable than writing about just anything. Leveraging your expertise in one focused area can help you create better and more relevant content. For example, according to Ahrefs blogging statistics , the most profitable blogging niche is the food blog niche. "Food bloggers have the highest median monthly income ($9,169) as compared to bloggers from all major niches". If you want to tap into this specific blog niche momentum, learn more about how to start a food blog  or how to make money as a food blogger . This will help you map out your blogging goals and understand just how much it costs to start a blog, knowing the potential money you can earn in return.  Expert tip from Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix: “There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to blogging; what might work for one person may not work for someone else. What is important is that you have your finger on the pulse when it comes to your blog’s performance. Tracking data over time, spotting trends and experimenting with different strategies are some of the best ways to find out what works for you.” Blog monetization strategies to start earning Starting a blog comes with expenses, from hosting and domain fees to design and marketing. The good news is you can offset these costs while growing your audience. Here are strategies to start monetizing your blog right away: Affiliate marketing  – Share products or services your readers will actually love and earn a commission whenever someone buys through your links. It’s a simple way to make money while giving your audience helpful recommendations. Sponsored posts  – Partner with brands that fit your blog’s style. Sponsored content helps you earn income while introducing your readers to products and services that are relevant to them. Display ads  – Add ads to your posts with platforms like Google AdSense and earn money based on views or clicks. On Wix, you can easily create an ad unit and drop it into your blog. Sell digital products  – Turn your knowledge into eBooks, templates or online courses. Once they’re ready, you can sell them over and over to your audience. Offer services  – Use your blog to show off your skills, like freelance work, consulting or coaching. Your posts help attract clients who appreciate your expertise. Blog subscriptions  – Give your readers exclusive content they can subscribe to for a fee. On Wix, just go to your dashboard, open the Blog tab and pick the posts you want to monetize. How much does it cost to start a blog FAQ Is it worth it to start a blog? Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter dominate the internet. The rise of short-form video content like TikTok and Instagram Reels has further changed the way we consume and create content. However, blogging is still a relevant and proven content marketing strategy if you're still wondering if blogging is worth it . Blogging can be a great investment if you're willing to put in the time and effort to create quality content and promote your blog . Whether you're looking to build your personal brand, create a passive income stream, or gain exposure for your business, blogging offers a proven way to achieve those goals. What are the ongoing costs of maintaining a blog? Ongoing blog costs may include web hosting renewal fees, domain renewal fees and additional expenses for premium themes or plugins if you choose to enhance your blog's functionality. Also, if you end up hiring freelance writers, editors or photographers, you will have to retain them via ongoing payments.  Can I monetize my blog to cover costs? Yes, you can monetize a blog  through several approaches to help mitigate the initial costs. One option is to sell a product or service directly through your site. This can range from physical items to digital resources like e-books or courses. Another option is to create gated content that requires users to pay or subscribe for access. This can be a great way to offer premium content to dedicated followers while generating revenue. The challenge is finding the right balance between monetizing your blog and maintaining the trust and loyalty of your audience.  Can I start a blog without technical skills? Yes, many blogging platforms, like Wix, are designed for users without technical expertise. They provide user-friendly interfaces, and you can find plenty of online resources and tutorials to help you get started. How do beginner bloggers make money? Once you have selected your niche and created relevant content, as a blogger, you can start earning income through various channels. Affiliate marketing, sponsored posts and advertising are some of the most popular methods on how to make money blogging .  You can read more about blogging for beginners  to find more lucrative ways to get started.  Can a blog be started for free? Yes, free blog makers like Wix allow you to start blogging without upfront costs. However, these often come with limitations, such as non-personalized domains, ads you don’t control and limited monetization options. How much should I budget for marketing a new blog? For new blogs, marketing costs vary widely, from free strategies like social media and SEO to paid options such as ads. Budget $50–$500 for initial promotion, focusing on social media ads, email campaigns or influencer collaborations to drive traffic. What are some popular blog niches with good monetization potential? Some of the most popular blog niches with strong monetization potential include personal finance, health and wellness, lifestyle, travel and technology. These topics attract large engaged audiences and offer multiple revenue streams from affiliate marketing and sponsored content to digital products and courses. Niche blogs that solve specific problems or provide expert insights tend to perform particularly well. Choosing a niche you’re passionate about also makes it easier to create consistent high-quality content that resonates with readers.

Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce →   Good eCommerce website design is the marriage of form and function that serves the ultimate goal of any online store: to sell. With global e-commerce sales expected to reach $8 trillion by 2027 , building a high-performing, eye-catching online store is more crucial than ever. While good eCommerce websites come in many different forms, what they all have in common is visual design that creates a strong brand experience, content that builds trust and a user experience that aids the customer in their buying journey. Learn more:  What is an eCommerce website? In this blog, we’ll take a look at the specific eCommerce website design elements and features that can help you up your design game, as well as the best eCommerce website examples for inspiration. Ready to start your eCommerce journey? Now’s the perfect time to bring your vision to life. With Wix eCommerce, you have the tools to build a professional online store and create a website that captivates your audience, drives traffic and boosts sales. Take the first step and explore Wix eCommerce today. Make your mark online and turn your ideas into success. TL;DR: eCommerce website design examples A great eCommerce site doesn’t just sell products—it builds trust, tells a story and makes shopping feel effortless. In this guide, we’ve rounded up online stores that do just that. Each one shows how smart design choices can bring your brand to life and create a better customer experience from the first click to checkout. You’ll get ideas for layout, branding, product pages and more, plus practical takeaways to use on your own site, whether you’re starting fresh or looking to level up what you’ve already built. How we chose these eCommerce website examples Criteria Why it matters Clarity and usability Sites that make it easy for visitors to navigate, browse and purchase Strong brand presence Designs that reflect the store’s unique voice and identity Mobile responsiveness Stores that look and work great across all devices Visual merchandising High-quality product images, smart layout choices and engaging copy Conversion-focused features Elements like clear CTAs, trust signals and streamlined checkouts 24 eCommerce website design examples and inspiration Now, let’s explore the 24 best eCommerce website examples that set the standard for exceptional design and functionality. These website ideas will inspire you with creative layouts, strong branding and user experiences that turn visitors into loyal customers. Copper & Brass Vivi et Margot Izzy Wheels Gay’s The Word Cherry and Mint The Spice Suite T. Patterson Surfboards Evolve Clothing Gallery Papier Patate Lauren Simpson Art The Boho Birdy Beck & Cap Hydrascape Handlebend Oak & Willow Fieldstone Tach Home & Patio Gallery Furry Necks Healthy Eating on the Go Sena Runa Brave Vision Love Her Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company 01. Copper & Brass Copper & Brass Paper Goods  launched in October 2018 with an important purpose: representation. Copper & Brass sells notebooks, stickers, sticky notes and other paper goods with beautiful illustrations of Black people and characters, such as their famous Black Santa wrapping paper.  The designs on their products shine through to their eCommerce store. This site serves as an example of how strong branding as part of your eCommerce website design can help relay a company’s values and create a compelling reason to buy. Pro tip : Looking to get started on your online store? Learn how to make a website  with Wix and choose from hundreds of professionally designed, fully customizable eCommerce website templates  today. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Stationery store website template 02. Vivi et Margot French homeware brand Vivi et Margot's  aesthetic is a shining example of the power of photography. The site is rich with lifestyle photos set in the French countryside depicting la vie en rose . Their impressive following on social media (more than 156,000 followers on Instagram alone) speaks to the persuasive power of photography in creating a strong brand experience. Be inspired: Luxury website examples Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Home goods store website template 03. Izzy Wheels Izzy Wheels’  emphasis on inclusivity and bold self-expression is at the heart of their colorful online store. Irish sisters Ailbhe and Izzy Keane have collaborated with some of the world's biggest brands—including Barbie, Disney and Hello Kitty—in creating bright, beautiful wheel covers for wheelchairs.  Looking for more colorful website inspiration, check out these blue website examples. By highlighting these brand names and press mentions on their homepage, Izzy Wheels creates buzz and increases trust among potential shoppers. We love how Izzy Wheels' store name stands out, while clearly indicating what their brand offers.  Pro tip : If you're ready to start a business  of your own, you’ll need a catchy name. Try our store name generator  to craft an equally catchy title for your brand, or take some inspiration from these eCommerce business name ideas . Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Sporting goods store website template 04. Gay’s The Word One of our favorite LGBTQIA+ websites , Gay’s The Word  has done an admirable job designing an online extension of their iconic London-based LGBTQ+ bookstore. Photos of its brick-and-mortar shop, coupled with vibrant pictures of its books, give shoppers the cozy feeling of being in a bookstore. The site includes "Community" and "Events" pages that keep online shoppers connected to the community that has surrounded this business since its inception. Learn more: How to sell books online Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Bookstore website template 05. Cherry and Mint Bright and refreshing, Cherry and Mint ’s website has a fitting vibe consistent with the playful colors that track across their clothes, accessories and branding. Cherry and Mint makes their website fairly product-focused. You can shop directly from the homepage, starting with a call-out of the brand’s newest releases, and continue exploring various collections the brand has curated. One unique feature they employ is a "Last Chance" section, where shoppers can view items marked down to a final sale price. This is a great marketing strategy to instill a sense of urgency and irresistibility to buyers. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Kids clothing store website template 06. The Spice Suite Looking at The Spice Suite , one thing is immediately apparent: both the site and the store’s founder, Angel Gregorio, have flavor. The Spice Suite’s "Our Story" page outlines Angel's journey to "Spice Girlboss," culminating in a top-40 spot on season eight of MasterChef . The Spice Suite’s website also showcases Angel’s extraordinary commitment to her community, shouting out the 2,300+ Black-owned pop-up shops she has hosted from her store. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Bakery website template 07. T. Patterson Surfboards T. Patterson Surfboards  has made quite a mark on the surfing industry. Created in 1980, owner and second-generation surfboard builder Tim Patterson calls his work “a harmonious blend of artistry and technical expertise.”  The T. Patterson eCommerce website makes the brand’s expertise known through its mix of media (lifestyle photos and video) and impressive technical language. The "Board Builder" is a particularly unique tab where customers can fully outfit a custom surfboard, choosing from different shapes, dimensions, colors, fin plugs and more. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Eyewear store website template 08. Evolve Clothing Gallery Like the clothes that founder RanD carefully curates for his collection, Evolve’s  online storefront stands out. The site has a slick, sophisticated experience that feels as stylish as the Evolve brick-and-mortar store in New Jersey.  Visitors can use detailed dropdown menus to choose their own adventure in terms of what product categories they’d like to browse. Evolve’s sleek design, combined with the easy navigation and smooth checkout process, creates an experience that is both fluid and fashion-forward. Pro tip : Strong product descriptions are key to building a solid eCommerce website . If you have a large product catalog, give Wix’s AI text creator a try. Used by Wix merchants like Evolve, this generative AI tool can write hundreds of rich product descriptions for you in minutes, all from a few simple prompts. To get started, from your Wix editor, click "Add Elements" and then "Text." Click into the text box, select "Create AI Text" and choose the "Product description" option. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Shoe store website template 09. Papier Patate Belgian family business Papier Patate  offers an adorable assortment of customizable, kid-friendly cards and stickers—all made from recycled paper. With a focus on simplicity and sustainability, their eCommerce website design perfectly suits their initiative, featuring a simple yet refined pastel color palette, flat design, organic shapes and straightforward navigation. The brand even features a "Spotlight" page to showcase photos of customers using their stickers and other goodies. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Swimwear store website template 10. Lauren Simpson Art The best artist websites  serve a dual purpose: to display art and to sell it. Lauren Simpson Art  has both of these necessities down with an elegant, refined website showcasing the best of her Alaskan wilderness-inspired portfolio.  From Lauren’s shop, you can purchase original paintings as well as prints, stickers or cards featuring her original artwork. Her homepage features a side-scrolling gallery with beautiful pictures of her working in the studio, and a simple "About the Artist" blurb further down the page details a few sentences about her mission statement. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Ceramic store website template 11. The Boho Birdy The Boho Birdy  is a 100% Australian-owned and operated online boutique selling everything from housewares to loungewear to wedding attire. Their eCommerce website design is bold and organized, with easy-to-spot category pages, currency selector, "Contact Us" buttons and other website features  that make it easy for shoppers to navigate. A homepage carousel of the "Latest Arrivals" also shows customers the newest items available for purchase. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Clothing store website template 12. Beck & Cap Beck & Cap  is a custom furniture and signmaking outlet from northwestern Montana. Owners Tanner and Jana Roach have taken a less-is-more approach to their eCommerce website design, with a grid-style gallery on the homepage showcasing their creations in upscale, rustic living spaces.  Throughout the site, the use of a fine-weight sans serif font and crisp, airy photos gives the entire website a cohesive visual lightness that perfectly complements the couple’s handmade furniture. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Clothing store website template 13. Hydrascape Hailing from Bellingham, Washington, Hydracscape  is a sticker brand created by painter and mural artist Gretchen Leggitt . The rich tones and multidimensional elements of Leggitt’s artwork carry over into her site design for Hydrascape, instantly catching the consumer’s eye.  Scrolling through the homepage, you can see various examples of how Hydrascape’s stickers (and sew-on/iron-on patches) can be applied to various-sized water bottles, mugs and even cars. The top navigation additionally directs visitors to helpful links for instructions, inspiration and collab pages featuring other artists.  Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Poster store website template 14. Handlebend Handlebend  is another example of cohesive branding, tying their eCommerce website design into the same warm tones and rustic textures of their product collection—handcrafted copper mugs and custom apparel. Site visitors are instantly greeted with striking photos of the collection, plus bolded-text callouts directing you where to click for corporate or custom gifting, directions to their O'Neill, Nebraska taproom and inspiring customer reviews. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Barbershop website template 15. Oak & Willow With a goal of making no-waste and eco-friendly cleaning products affordable, Oak & Willow ’s online store encourages customers to "make the switch" . The site’s flat design, floral details and chic brand colors are reminiscent of 1960s- and 70s-era "Flower Power" motifs.  Notably, Oak & Willow lays out its ethos front and center of the homepage, detailing their commitment to sustainable and human-first business practices. Considering that 78% of consumers  feel sustainability is important—and 75% of sustainable goods sell better online—this is a smart way to instantly connect with concerned customers. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Jewelry store website template 16. Fieldstone Fieldstone  is an apparel brand inspired by the Southern sportsman lifestyle. A first glance at their eCommerce site will transport you straight to the outdoors as you scroll through beautiful photos of their apparel in action.  On the homepage, beneath the header gallery, they make it instantly clear what they stand for in their business: unique designs that are made in the USA with quality craftsmanship. Before you dive in to shop, you can also browse a few galleries of featured and popular products, as well as the brand’s recent Instagram photos. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Camping equipment store website template 17. Tach Tach  notes that their clothing is "both simple and complex, with a strong timeless appeal." That echoes true for eCommerce website design, too. The site has a simple homepage featuring images (some still, some moving) of models wearing the brand’s vintage-inspired clothing. As a cool alternative to an About Us page , Tach presents a dreamy, film-like video detailing their history and sharing a little bit about the sisters behind the brand. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Clothing store website template 18. Home & Patio Gallery In addition to its three storefronts in Puerto Rico, Home & Patio Gallery  has a gone about building a robust eCommerce website where shoppers can browse an impressive assortment of home goods. The homepage offers a wealth of information, including current sales, featured products and information about financing.  The furniture retailer additionally makes excellent use of a top navigation bar with broad product categories—such as "Dining" and "Living"—that drop down into subsections, such as "Futons," "TV Units" and "Barstools." Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Online wallpaper store (bold) website template 19. Furry Necks If dogs could shop online, they would love the Furry Necks  website. The good news is that humans love it, too. When consumers aren’t browsing the brand’s handmade dog collars (made from world-famous Harris Tweed), they may find themselves fawning over the "Gallery" page, which shows off dozens of doggies modeling Furry Necks’ products.  Notably, at the website’s footer, you’ll find emblems for the Harris Tweed Authority and Campaign for Wool, which speak to the brand’s authenticity and commitment to quality.  Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Baby gift store website template 20. Healthy Eating on the Go Healthy Eating on the Go  proclaims that their snack bars will inspire "Love at first bite," and if you weren’t convinced, their eCommerce site makes a pretty compelling case. The homepage shines a spotlight on the bars’ best features—safe for everyone, gluten-free, high in protein and more—while also calling out fan-favorite flavors and reviews from satisfied customers. The site’s simple and clean layout reflects the simple and clean ingredients in their bars; no fluff, no filler. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Snack bar company website template 21. Sena Runa Paper artist Sena Runa  has crafted a one-page website that serves as both an online portfolio and online shop. Scrolling through her store, you’re immersed in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and clean, crisp photography that masterfully captures the essence of each piece of artwork. Sena also features a brief "About" section, links to several notable interviews and a "Projects & collaborations" gallery, where you can see work she’s done for brands like Sugar Bear Hair, Royal Caribbean, Essie and others. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Art store website template 22. Brave Vision Brave Vision ’ eCommerce website design is bold, rugged and stylish, just like its versatile, fashion-forward sunglasses. Product photography is a standout feature across all pages of the website, showing both the details of each pair of glasses and examples of how they look on various models.  Additionally, Brave has gorgeous product pages that are well-organized and full of key product information: "Materials," "Features," "Light transmission," "Duties" and "Returns," to name a few of the expandable list items. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Start from scratch website template 23. Love Her Athleisure retailer Love Her  uses their eCommerce homepage as prime real estate to show off product restocks, new releases and a featured "Item of the Month." The brand utilizes a blog as a smart way to add more content-rich pages to their website, along with an FAQ page.  In fact, if you’ve been looking for pointers on how to create an FAQ page , Love Her serves as a great example. There, the brand includes relevant details about sizing, returns, shopping, wash instructions and more, preemptively answering customers’ questions before they buy. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Sportswear store website template 24. Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company Lamarsa Coffee Machine Company  is a team of self-proclaimed coffee enthusiasts selling fine coffee equipment both online and from their Petaling Jaya showroom in Selangor, Malaysia. Their eCommerce website is an homage to the brands they stock, with a simple top-bar navigation that lets customers browse by brand, product type or current deals.  At the bottom of Lamarsa’s website, you’ll find a "Why Buy From Us" section that offers reassurance in what they offer to customers: authorized dealer warranties, bespoke customer service and fast, reliable deliveries. Like what you see? Build your own eCommerce website using this same template. Template name : Camera store website template The websites featured here were built with Wix and show what’s possible with real, DIY designs. They represent functional, effective and thoughtfully crafted options that help people run their businesses. Start designing your eCommerce website  today with Wix. What defines good eCommerce website design? A strong eCommerce website design is easy to navigate, visually appealing and effective in converting visitors into customers. Here are some of the key elements of good eCommerce website design: It’s easy to navigate It’s hard to overstate the importance of a good eCommerce UX  in website design. Put simply, it should be easy for shoppers to browse and filter through all of their options. Features like your header, navigation menu, breadcrumbs, filters, on-site search and footer can contribute to a good UI. As a general rule of thumb, optimize your eCommerce website  to that all of your products will be accessible within three or fewer clicks. It offers multiple payment options Offering multiple payment options creates a customer-centric checkout process, which in turn maximizes sales. By allowing customers to pay with their preferred method, which you can enable with an online payment processing system  like Wix Payments, you eliminate friction during the final, most important step of the buying process.  “Offering multiple payment methods is a decisive factor when buying online. If the website does not offer the consumer’s preferred payment option, it is very likely they will abandon the purchase.” – Letícia Fernandes, Head of institutional marketing at Pagar.me and Stone. Learn more about what is Wix Payments . See more : Ready for a deeper dive into learning all about designing a website? See our comprehensive guide: What is web design?   It’s visually appealing Just as lighting, music and decorations create ambiance in a brick-and-mortar store, every design element of your website influences how your brand is perceived. Shoppers will evaluate your store in seconds—making it especially important for your branding to be polished, professional and consistent. High-quality imagery serves as a cornerstone of a visually appealing website. It not only showcases your products but also evokes emotions that can influence purchasing decisions. Lifestyle images can immerse shoppers in an aspirational experience, while detailed product photos provide clarity and build trust. Incorporating visual hierarchy—such as bold headlines, strategically placed buttons and contrasting colors—guides users’ attention and encourages them to take desired actions. Using consistent fonts is also important. Stick to the same typefaces for headings, body text and buttons to create a seamless, cohesive design that keeps the focus on your content—not clashing styles. Fonts also set the tone for your brand. Rounded fonts feel warm and approachable, while sharp, geometric fonts communicate precision and innovation. Choose wisely to reflect the right message for your audience. It works well on mobile As of this writing, 63.64% of worldwide website traffic  comes from mobile devices. In the U.S., mobile commerce—or mCommerce—is booming, with retail mCommerce sales projected to grow to more than $850 billion by 2027 . If your eCommerce website does not look good or work well on mobile, you are leaving money on the table. It incorporates professional photography Each product should be accompanied by at least one minimalist photo that shows your item against a white or plain background. Include additional photos that show your product from various angles so that shoppers can see the finer details. Aside from product photos, remember that imagery plays a big role throughout your site—and it’s one of our key About Us page tips . Weave lifestyle photographs throughout your pages and focus on creating a visual story about your brand. It offers a variety of multimedia Video, 360° images, user-generated content (UGC) and size charts are just some of the ways that a variety of media can elevate the shopping experience on your site. Aside from offering an engaging experience, each of these elements can help your shoppers visualize various things about your product: size, use, texture, color, etc. It features strong copy Incorporating strong copy and engaging content into your eCommerce website design helps to build your brand voice, create trust and increase the professionalism of your business. Every piece of text your shoppers encounter in their buying journey is an opportunity for creating a personal connection, so you’ll want to be thoughtful with your copywriting. It showcases product reviews Social proof is critical in creating a high-converting product page. According to BrightLocal, 46% of consumers  consider online business reviews to be as trustworthy as personal recommendations from friends or family members. It’s your responsibility to make sure that customers can easily find those reviews on your website. Additionally, keep in mind that customer reviews can help with SEO by adding depth to your product pages and touching on long-tail keywords. It outlines a return policy Writing a clear return and exchange policy creates transparency. Customers want to know what to expect from you before they buy something. ShippyPro notes that 67% of consumers  want to consult a return policy before making a purchase, and 58% want their returns to be simple, without wasting time digging or reaching out for more information. These policies should be clear and easily accessible from your eCommerce site. It offers a clear path to purchase According to Dynamic Yield, 21% of abandoned shopping carts  are due to a site having a complicated or lengthy checkout process. Site design should never be why customers get frustrated and avoid making a purchase, and this includes your checkout page. Ensure that it’s optimized without being bogged down by extraneous buttons, banners or text fields that aren’t necessary.  Learn more: How does eCommerce work? Tips for designing an eCommerce store that sells Now that you have the basics down, here are a few simple tips to keep in mind when researching how to design a website  for eCommerce that sells: Choose the right eCommerce platform The best eCommerce site starts with choosing the best ecommerce website builder or best ecommerce platform . The right eCommerce platform is crucial for a successful online business. It should offer a user-friendly interface and a seamless shopping experience for customers. This means robust security features , including SSL certificates  and secure payment gateways, instill trust and protect your customers sensitive information. Learn more about ecommerce website security . Scalability also is vital to accommodate business growth. The platform should support a variety of product types and sizes as well as flexible product customization options. Integration capabilities with third-party tools, such as CRMs and web analytics , also help you create a successful ecommerce website. An efficient inventory management  system prevents overselling and helps in tracking stock levels. Shopping cart software is integral to an eCommerce website builder. It should offer secure checkout processes, diverse payment options and seamless integration with inventory management. You should also expect responsive customer support  from your platform provider ensures timely assistance during technical issues. "I built our website in less than a week. Prior to Strathcona Spirits, I worked in eCommerce and online communications, so I knew what I wanted. I didn’t want an eCommerce site that was clunky and difficult to update, where the smallest change required a developer. This was a lean startup so we wanted to have a website that we could easily update ourselves—or delegate to an employee to update—in a really simple and time-efficient way. So that's how I decided on Wix.“ - Andrea Shubert, co-founder of Strathcona Spirits Learn more:  Ecommerce tools Use eCommerce website templates Using templates to build an eCommerce site is an efficient way to create a user-friendly selling site. Templates provide a structured design and web page framework, streamlining the design process and giving a professional look. They allow you to establish an online presence quickly while benefiting from professionally designed templates with proven layouts and features. Here are some to get started with: Fashion and clothing ecommerce website templates Jewelry and accessories ecommerce website templates Arts and crafts ecommerce website templates Food and drink ecommerce website templates Beauty and wellness ecommerce website templates Sports and outdoors ecommerce website templates Pets and animals ecommerce website templates Kids and babies ecommerce website templates Integrate your social media channels Many eCommerce websites integrate media from their social feeds—such as Instagram photos—as a means to incorporate UGC into their site design, boosting social proof. "Recently, UGC (user-generated content), once spontaneous, has become more accessible to content creators who now sell their services to brands. In 2025, this trend is reasserting itself: UGC is becoming THE essential format for captivating audiences and boosting conversions through social media ads." - Jonathan Noble, Founder of Swello Establish customer trust Showcase any trust badges or security certifications on your website and/or checkout page, such as SSL certificates or payment security icons. A hassle-free return policy, customer reviews and clear contact information also help establish your brand as trustworthy. See our round-up of the best Contact Us pages  for inspiration here. Don't miss out on maximizing your seasonal sales: Check out the ultimate eCommerce holiday readiness checklist  and get your business holiday-ready today. eCommerce website examples FAQ How can I make sure my eCommerce site is secure for customers? To ensure your Wix ecommerce site is secure for customers: 1.Rely on Wix's built-in SSL certificate 2. Enable two-factor authentication 3. Regularly update your Wix account password 4. Use Wix Payments for secure transactions 5. Implement Wix's fraud prevention tools 6. Limit admin access to trusted individuals 7. Rely on Wix's regular, auto backup of your site data 8. Use Wix's GDPR-compliant features 9. Educate customers about secure practices 12. Rely on Wix's PCI DSS compliant eCommerce hosting What are the best ways to drive traffic to my eCommerce site? To drive traffic to your ecommerce site: 1. Optimize for search engines (SEO) 2. Use paid advertising (Google Ads, social media ads) 3. Leverage social media marketing 4. Create valuable content (blog, videos) 5. Email marketing campaigns 6. Influencer partnerships 7. Offer referral programs 8. Participate in online communities 9. Use retargeting ads 10. Optimize for mobile users 11. List products on comparison sites 12. Collaborate with complementary businesses 13. Use PR and press releases 14. Host online events or webinars 15. Implement affiliate marketing How can I improve the user experience on my eCommerce site? To improve user experience on your ecommerce site simplify your navigation, prioritize site speed, use high-quality product images with clear product descriptions. Make sure your site is mobile-friendly with a streamlined checkout process and clear shipping information. What are the legal requirements for running an eCommerce business? Legal requirements for running an ecommerce business typically include: 1. Business registration and licenses 2. Tax ID and sales tax collection 3. Privacy policy and terms of service 4. GDPR compliance (for EU customers) 5. PCI DSS compliance for payment processing 6. Trademark and copyright protection 7. Product safety standards 8. Age verification for restricted products 9. Shipping regulations 10. Consumer protection laws 11. ADA compliance for accessibility 12. Email marketing regulations (CAN-SPAM Act) 13. Accurate advertising and pricing 14. Proper handling of customer data 15. Compliance with industry-specific regulations How do I integrate social media with my eCommerce site? To integrate social media with your Wix ecommerce site: 1. Add social media buttons using Wix's Social Bar 2. Enable social sharing on product pages 3. Use Wix's Social Post feature to share products 4. Embed Instagram feed using Wix App Market 5. Connect Facebook Shop to your Wix store 6. Use Wix's Social Media Stream app 7. Add Pinterest "Save" buttons to products 8. Utilize Wix's Facebook Pixel integration 9. Create shoppable posts on Instagram via Wix 10. Implement Wix Chat for social-like interactions 11. Use Wix's Social Media Icons app 12. Showcase customer reviews from social platforms How much does it cost to build an eCommerce website? On Wix, you can build an ecommerce website for free. However, once you launch your site and want to start accepting payments from shoppers, you’ll have to choose a paid plan. Wix offers several annual eCommerce plans ranging from $27/month for basic eCommerce features to $159/month for more advanced capabilities. Is eCommerce profitable? Yes, eCommerce can be highly profitable, but success depends on factors like understanding market demand, executing effective marketing strategies and managing costs. Profitability often stems from providing unique products, competitive pricing and exceptional customer experiences. By keeping overhead costs low and utilizing scalable digital tools, businesses can optimize their margins and growth potential. However, stiff competition requires consistent innovation and efficient operations to maintain an edge. What are the best ways to find customers? To find customers for your eCommerce business, focus on a mix of strategies tailored to your audience: Leverage digital marketing channels : Use paid ads on platforms like Google and social media to target specific audiences and drive traffic quickly. Optimize for search engines (SEO) : Ensure your website ranks high in search results. Utilize social media : Engage users by sharing compelling visuals, stories and promotions on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Email marketing : Build email lists and nurture leads with personalized offers and updates to encourage repeat purchases. Understand customer needs : Analyze customer data and feedback to tailor your marketing approach, highlighting what resonates most with your audience. What is an eCommerce website? An eCommerce site is a website specifically created for the online buying and selling of goods or services. An eCommerce site is defined by the following features and functionality: Product catalog:  Offers a wide range of products or services with detailed information, including descriptions, specifications, pricing and availability. Shopping cart:  Allows customers to select products, view their online shopping cart and checkout securely. Payment processing:  Integrates secure payment gateways to process transactions using credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets and other online payment options. Order fulfillment:  Manages the process of receiving orders, processing payments, preparing shipments and managing shipping logistics. Customer management:  Includes features for customer account creation, login, order tracking, communication tools and managing returns or refunds. Search and navigation:  Provides intuitive search functionality and user-friendly navigation tools for customers to easily find the products they're looking for. What are some of the best eCommerce websites? Some of the best eCommerce website examples include Amazon, eBay and Etsy. Amazon is probably the most famous and poplar ecommerce website example and its known for its vast product selection and fast shipping times. Newer ecommerce website examples include Temu and Aliexpress, both based out of China and offering low price products. Other popular examples by location include OnBuy in the UK or Zalando in Germany.

Starting your business  can be exciting and filled with many decisions, one of the most important being choosing a point of sale (POS) system.  A modern POS system  is indispensable for small business owners, especially those engaged in multichannel selling. It streamlines transactions and integrates various sales channels, providing a unified eCommerce platform to manage your operations.  However, figuring out POS system costs can be daunting. There are a lot of parts making up the total costs. From the initial hardware purchase to ongoing software subscriptions and transaction fees, there are many things to consider. In this guide, we’ll dive into the cost components of a POS system so that you know what to expect and how to choose the best solution for your ecommerce business . The cost components of a POS system Let’s break down the costs into manageable chunks to get a better view of how much a POS system costs. There are six factors that make up the total POS system cost.  01. Hardware: one-time fee paid upfront You can expect a full suite of POS hardware to cost anywhere from $750 to $1,700. A complete system usually includes: A touchscreen A credit card reader A barcode scanner A receipt printer A charging dock for each item A lockable cash drawer Some providers offer each of these pieces individually, but you usually get a better deal by purchasing an all-inclusive package. Keep in mind that the hardware you choose depends on your business needs and will impact the total cost. For instance, if you manage a brick-and-mortar retail store, you’ll benefit most from a complete package that includes all POS hardware components. Similarly, if you’re also selling online, knowing how to make a website that integrates with your POS system streamlines operations and reduces costs.   For Wix, the Complete POS Register  costs $1,699 . The setup includes: A terminal with customer display Wix POS software A cash drawer A barcode scanner  A receipt printer A mobile card reader A mobile card reader dock If you mostly sell on the and only need a mobile card reader and charging dock, Wix’s Mobile Card Reader  is available à la carte for a one-time fee of $69 . Alternatively, you can get the Mobile Card Reader + Dock bundle for $99. 02. Software: ongoing fixed subscription fee (or free) Most providers charge between $40 and $100 monthly to access their POS software. Others charge a one-time fee when you purchase the system. However, some, like Wix, offer cloud-based POS systems with integrated software. The pre-installed native software  allows Wix platform users to start selling offline right out of the box at no monthly charge. That said, when evaluating POS software options, find one with features that align with your business type. For example, retailers need software that syncs inventory data with your product catalog. Service providers need software that enables booking and managing appointments. And event hosts need software with features to sell and check tickets at the door. 03. Payment processing fees: variable usage cost The third part of POS processing system costs you need to be aware of is the processing fees for credit card payments. Every POS transaction on your system incurs these charges.  Fees are handled by either your POS provider’s internal payment processor, like Wix Payments , or a third-party processing company, like Square. The cost is usually a percentage of your payment plus a fixed amount and varies from provider to provider. Think of the fixed amount as a sort of minimum payment safeguard for the processor. For example, Wix Payments POS charges 2.6% of the transaction amount with no flat fees. Others, like Square, charge 2.6% of the transaction with an additional flat fee of $0.15 per in-person transaction. POS in-person transaction cost* Provider % per transaction Flat fee per transaction Software Wix 2.6% $0 Free Square 2.6% $0.15 Free Shopify (Retail) 2.6% $0.10 Free POS systems with native online payment solutions are often more cost-effective and provide smoother operations, support and maintenance because you can manage all your transactions in one place and deal with a single provider. 04. Registration POS fees The cost of setting up a new POS system will depend on your provider. Some offer it for free, while others might charge a registration fee. This fee covers the cost of creating your account, configuring the software to meet your needs and sometimes training your staff to use the system.  Normally, most POS providers waive registration fees entirely for smaller businesses or those opting for simpler setups. However, a Magestore study found the costs can be as high as $10,000 for big restaurants that need more complex setups, like multiple countertop POS registers with tablet stands and kitchen printers. If the provider includes registration charges, they might add the fees to the overall cost or charge them separately. Always ask about any additional fees during the evaluation process to avoid unexpected expenses. 05. Location-based POS fees  Location-based POS fees often apply if you want to install the POS software in more than one POS terminal or in multiple stores. These fees are a bit of a wildcard and significantly depend on the provider and the complexity of your setup.  Some POS solutions, charge per month for each additional location, while others charge per location and the number of registers. So, the more registers and store locations you have, the more you pay. Since location-based charges and how they're calculated vary widely, be sure to get details when evaluating POS system costs. Otherwise, surprise charges could torpedo your budget. 06. Fees for add-on features to POS Add-on features can significantly enhance your business operations with extra functionality, but they also impact your overall POS system costs.  The specific features you choose and your provider will influence costs. For example, some POS systems may charge a flat monthly fee for each additional feature, while others set up tiered pricing models based on how many users you need or groups of features. With Wix, upgrading to the POS plan  activates valuable add-on features like: Adding more staff members to your POS system as site collaborators Accepting additional payment types, including credit/debit cards and gift cards Allowing customers to exchange items Tracking staff member hours Loyalty point tracking for your online and brick-and-mortar stores How to choose a POS provider for your business Before settling on a provider, it's important to do your homework. Start by jotting down key features you need for your sales channels and ensure the software can handle it all. Next, take a close look at the pricing structure and available discounts, especially if you're dealing with high volumes. Check for any long-term commitments and extra costs for add-on services as well. Finally, weigh the pros and cons of each option. Look at how each one fits with your business strategy and budget. Ultimately, you'll want to choose the solution that most closely matches your needs and goals. Questions to ask when evaluating POS providers Asking questions is the best way to ensure a POS provider meets your business needs. Here are some questions to ask when evaluating POS providers: What features does the POS system offer?  Ensure the system includes every functionality you need, such as multichannel inventory management, live inventory status and automated sales tax. What are the costs involved?  Beyond the initial POS system cost to purchase, ask about ongoing costs such as software updates, transaction fees and any charges for add-on services. Is the system scalable?  As your business grows, your POS system must keep up. Ask whether the system can handle increased transaction volumes and if more locations or staff can be easily added later. Can it integrate with other channels? Your POS system should seamlessly connect with your other sales channels so that inventory can automatically sync whenever you sell a product. How is customer support?  Reliable support is a must. You can’t afford to be left without help if something goes wrong. Check that support is available during your business hours and how you can reach them. How secure is the system?  Security is a must for businesses dealing with sensitive customer data and payments. Ask about the security measures in place, such as end-to-end encryption and EMV-certified card readers. Four popular POS purchase options Now that you know what to look for when choosing a POS provider, let’s cover four popular options for buying a point-of-sale system. 01. Purchase from an all-in-one provider If you already have an online store, your best bet is to get your POS system from the same eCommerce platform where you built your website. Having everything from one provider helps simplify and streamline operations, allowing you to manage everything in one place.  Purchasing an all-in-one option can also be a way to save on POS system costs. Some providers offer all-inclusive bundles with their POS hardware and software, payment solutions and website-building tools, which is ideal if you're into omnichannel retail . This option often saves money on transaction fees compared to a third-party payment provider. Plus, you’ll avoid the hassle of building custom integrations connecting one system to another. 02. Use third-party hardware Another option is to keep things separate with a third-party POS provider. For this option, you’ll need a payment provider that already partners with your eCommerce platform. Otherwise, you’ll incur extra costs creating custom integrations that sync your online and in-store operations. For instance, if you're using Wix, you can choose from several integrated providers, like Square POS  in several global markets or SumUp  in Europe. The risk of a fragmented business view from juggling different systems is the biggest downside of using third-party hardware. Since your eCommerce platform will handle the online part and the POS provider will manage the offline side, you'll have to piece together your payment history and inventory count from different sources. Learn more:   Best online payment solutions   SMB online commerce 03. Install POS software on your tablet device Since consumer tablets and iPads are so powerful, some providers offer the option to install their POS software on your device instead of buying a stand-alone display. While it’s a great option if you’re selling on the go and need something more robust than a basic card reader, it’s not very scalable or a good long-term solution for a permanent store. Personal tablet firmware and processing power might limit your business with slow performance or glitches, causing extra troubleshooting headaches. Plus, your tablet doesn’t enhance the customer experience. In contrast, retail POS solutions with stand-alone customer-facing displays make checkout smoother and more engaging for customers.  Many providers, like Wix, avoid a software-only option because of concerns about poor performance. So, using a consumer tablet limits your provider options and often prevents managing your entire business from a unified system since you won’t have an all-in-one provider. 04. Lease a POS The last option is to lease a POS system so you can spread the cost of hardware over time. This can be an ideal solution for short-term events or pop-up shops. However, it falls flat as a long-term solution. Over time, the monthly lease payments add up to more than the original cost of the POS system. That said, some providers, like Wix, offer the option to split your POS hardware costs into interest-free payments at no additional cost to get the best of both worlds. When shopping for POS options, ask yourself, "How long will I use this system?" before considering a lease. Questions to ask when evaluating your purchase options As you analyze your POS options, here are some points to help you make the best decision: Are you running a brick-and-mortar store, or do you sell on the go—like at markets, pop-up shops or a food truck? Your business type dictates certain features you'll need and the type of POS system and purchase option you choose. How much are you willing to spend on a POS solution? Know your spending limits and set a budget that fits your financial plans. Does your website building platform offer a unified POS system? Combining your website maker and POS system provider makes managing online and offline sales easier. Are you looking for a POS solution that will serve you for the long haul, or do you need something just for a short-term event or seasonal sale? Knowing how long you need the system makes a difference when picking a POS system. You may need something flexible and low-cost or scalable and long-term. Want to learn more about Wix POS? Book a call  with a POS expert today. Your options at Wix Here are the POS options available to you as a Wix merchant: Wix POS System Complete POS Register Essential POS Register Mobile Card Reader + Dock Price $1,699.00 $1,199.00 $99.00 Hardware included Elo Terminal with Customer Display Mobile Bluetooth Card Reader Mobile Card Reader Dock Pre-loaded Wix POS Software Epson Thermal Receipt Printer (WiFi/Bluetooth/Ethernet) Zebra Wired Scanner DS2208 13' Cash Drawer (4 Bill / 5 Coin) or 16' Cash Drawer (5 Bill / 5 Coin) Elo Terminal with Customer Display Mobile Bluetooth Card Reader Mobile Card Reader Dock Pre-loaded Wix POS Software Mobile Bluetooth Card Reader Mobile Card Reader Dock In-house payment solution (Wix Payments) Yes Yes Yes Processing fees 2.6% + $0 2.6% + $0 2.6% + $0 Best for Wix Stores users with a permanent brick-and-mortar location(s) Wix Stores users looking for a lean solution or just getting a retail business off the ground or managing a seasonal business or running a temporary retail pop-up shop Wix Stores, Bookings, Fitness and Events users who sell on the go or outdoors (at pop-ups, farmers markets, events and more) Wix POS is available only in the U.S. and Canada. U.S. pricing  and Canada pricing  documents provide more details. POS system cost FAQ What is the average price of a POS system? POS system costs can vary widely, but generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $750 to $1,700 for a full suite of POS hardware. This typically includes items like a touchscreen, credit card reader, barcode scanner, receipt printer, charging dock and cash register or drawer.  An all-in-one package might be a better deal as you typically get a discount compared to buying each component separately. For instance, if you purchase a complete retail POS package from Wix, you get a terminal with a customer display, card reader, cash drawer, barcode scanner and receipt printer. You also save on POS software costs as Wix bundles it with its hardware. How much does a POS transaction cost? POS transaction costs are payment and credit card processing fees. These fees are typically a percentage of each card transaction plus a small fixed amount. These costs can add up quickly if you have a high sales volume. What variables factor into POS cost? Several factors influence the cost of your POS system. They include: Type of business:  Different businesses have different needs. A small retailer might need a basic package with a single full set of hardware, whereas a pop-up produce stand might only need a card reader. Scalability and number of locations:  If your business is growing or you have multiple locations, you'll need a system that can scale with you. This might mean additional costs for extra terminals and hardware accessories. Add-on POS features:  Added functionalities like customer relationship management (CRM), advanced sales reports, employee management, online ordering and customer loyalty programs can add to the cost. How much does a self-checkout POS system cost? Self-checkout POS systems can have a wide price range based on features, capacity and the provider. Basic models, like a simple self-service kiosk, can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000, according to Korona POS research. If your business needs something more advanced, with features like RFID scanning, costs can exceed $20,000. It's all about your specific needs and how much you're willing to invest to get the right system for your setup. Can I open a POS system for my small business without monthly fees? Yes, you can. Some providers, like Wix, offer cloud-based POS systems with no monthly costs. With Wix, you get a POS system with native software pre-installed, allowing you to start selling offline immediately without monthly subscriptions. This can be a great option if you’re just starting out and want to keep costs low. *Editor’s note: All pricing and information are current as of March 7, 2025.

With so many brands launching websites for credibility, efficiency and immediate growth, there’s never been a better time to become a web designer. This high-demand job is projected to grow by 13%, between now and 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics . If you’re mulling over a career in website design , you’re also wondering what you need to know to start. In our guide, we’ll break down what a web designer is, how to become a web designer and go over what you can expect to earn at different points of your career. Use this design name generator to name your new business. What does a web designer do? Web designers create and maintain websites. They are responsible for developing websites and testing them to make sure they are attractive, responsive and have intuitive user interfaces. That being said, a web designer’s days aren’t strictly filled with designing. If you work as a freelancer , your day may look like this: Morning: Create new client contracts. Morning until midday: Develop a sitemap and wireframe for a client as part of making a website . Afternoon: Run cross-platform tests on different clients’ websites. On the other hand, if you work at an agency or organization, your day will consist of web design-specific tasks. Whether you want to be 100% design-focused or enjoy dealing with the management side, you’ll want to choose which type of web designer—freelancer or full-time employee—you want to be. Learn more: What is web design? How to become a web designer in 9 steps The web design field has evolved over the past decades. In the mid-1990s web designers gave us the first chatrooms and the ability to order pizza online. By the 2000s and the birth of Web 2.0, web design became about content and search engine optimization. And today, UX design has become the most important aspect of building a functional website. In effect, web design is more refined. You’ll need to learn web design theory, understand how the web works today, and find the right design tools to become a successful web designer: Study design theory Get a basic understanding of how web works Hone more skills for becoming a freelance designer Create a design toolkit Carve out a specific career path Create your portfolio website Apply to web design jobs Network Create content 01. Study design theory A web designer uses design theory to make every one of their decisions. For example, designers use color psychology as a framework to create a mood, influence a user’s emotions or elicit certain actions. Today, you can master web design theory without leaving your home. You’ll find free courses on YouTube, for instance, doing a site search for “web design theory course” will bring you accessible, in-depth tutorials by well-known course creators and thought leaders. If you want a more comprehensive education, take a course at your local college. Top educational institutions also offer high-quality, self-paced online courses and issue certificates which you can use to bolster your web design portfolio and resume. You can also purchase books on web design theory. While the basics are evergreen, sites like Smashing Magazine and A List Apart ( A Book Apart ) regularly publish books by top designers on the latest topics and technologies. Many designers regularly publish blogs, too, on both evergreen and newsier topics. Tip: Subscribe to the Wix blog to stay up-to-date on everything related to web design trends , theory, principles, resources and more. 02. Get a basic understanding of how web works While you don’t need to be a skilled coder to build websites today, understanding the technical structure of the web will ensure your designs can be developed into functional web pages. There are three basic languages you should learn: HTML, which forms the structure of a web page CSS , which dictates the styling of the web page and all its components JavaScript, which manipulates HTML and CSS so you can bring a website to life with interactivity Tip: Get complete design freedom and advanced features like innovative transparent videos, custom animations and vector act without having to know code with Wix . Or make your site even more dynamic with custom interactions and functionality with Velo by Wix , our open dev platform. You’ll find plentiful resources on website coding on the same platforms that cover web design theory. There are also a number of platforms dedicated strictly to coding and often include playgrounds, projects and quizzes. 03. Hone more skills for becoming a web designer Generally, a web designer’s skill set falls into two types: hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are the skills you learn to design websites. For example: Web design theory UX research Visual (UI) design Responsive design Wireframing Prototyping HTML & CSS A/B testing SEO website design Platform-specific tools, templates, plugins, etc. Soft skills are professional management skills you learn throughout your career. For example: Communication Negotiation Active listening Empathy Sales acumen Project and time management Client management Collaboration Accounting Which skills you need depends on the role you’re in. For instance, if you work as a freelance designer, you’ll need client management skills. However, if you work for an employer, you’ll benefit more from active listening and collaboration skills. You’ll also find that many of the resources you use to study web design also offer training on soft skills with exercises to apply them in your day-to-day work. You can also find web design tutorials here . 04. Create a design toolkit Adopt a toolkit that enables you to work as efficiently as possible while creating the best results. To find the right web design tools for you, you need to experiment with what’s available. Tip: Start creating with Wix Studio 's advanced design features to experience a seamless process from concept to production with responsive CSS powered by smooth drag & drop. In addition to filling your toolkit with web design tools, you’ll also want to add other tools that help you create websites. Consider your workflow and the tools that’ll streamline those tasks. For instance: UX research User personas Sitemaps Wireframing Prototyping Testing Start by trying out the 8 best UI and UX design software adding what you like into your day-to-day toolkit. Don’t forget about tools to enhance your soft skills. For example, business software can streamline both your administrative tasks and client interactions. 05. Carve out a specific career path While you don’t need to set anything in stone right away, it’s much easier to find clients and charge higher rates with a specialization. Here are four common web design career paths: Graphic designers focus on the branding and marketing side of web design, designing logos, creating marketing materials, and developing style guides or design systems with other design teams across an organization. UX designers use information gleaned from user research and testing to develop user persona profiles, map out user journeys, wireframe optimized layouts, design visual interfaces, and create working prototypes for websites and apps. Interaction designers research and learn how users engage with websites to create helpful and pleasing interactive experiences on a website. Hybrid front-end engineers tend to work on more complex website projects that require custom design and coding. They’re able to take a concept, translate it into a visual design—usually with design software—and then bring it to life through programming. The other way to specialize is by choosing a niche. For instance, you can narrow down by: Industry B2B vs. B2C Enterprise vs. small business Design platform Website type (e.g., business vs. eCommerce) This is something that will develop over time and it may even change, too. Usually, web designers find their niche at the crossroads between what they’re good at, what they enjoy, and where there’s a lot of demand. Learn how to start a web design business. 06. Create your portfolio website When you start applying to jobs, employers and clients want to see your demonstrated capabilities. Because you’re a web designer, your body of work shouldn’t consist of an e-mailed list of links or a third-party where you have to compete for attention. Create a portfolio website to easily allow potential employers to assess your skill level and gauge how well your style and approach aligns with their business needs. Your own portfolio website will help: Show off your work in the best light (i.e. not using a predetermined format from another platform.) Include a broad sampling of your website designs and organize them based on type, industry, etc. Give prospects an introduction to who you are, your design training and qualifications, as well as how you like to work. Impress visitors with the design of your own website and give them a preview of the kinds of features you can create for them. Optimize your site and portfolio for search engines so that people looking to hire a web designer can find you. Learn how to make a website  that highlights your unique skills and captivates potential clients today. 07. Apply to web design jobs Before you start applying, come up with a list of criteria you care about. This will help you choose the right platforms and to narrow down how many gigs or positions you apply to. For example: Remote or on site Local company or global Entry-level, mid-level, or senior role Contract or permanent employment Agency or in-house Part-time or full-time You may also want to narrow down your search based on the type of design software, work hours, job responsibilities, and so on. Tip : If you prefer to go the freelance route, try Wix Marketplace , a platform that allows you to show off your best work, set your rates and match with qualified leads looking for a professional designer just like you. 08. Network You never know what opportunities you’ll discover when you network. You might meet prospective clients to keep your skills razor-sharp, find creative partners to collaborate with, or simply a group of designers to commiserate with. Look within your local community for groups of designers or find and join web design groups online. Tip: Host a community meetup or workshop with Wix Partners and share your knowledge and expertise with others around the world. For instance, you might find a Facebook group dedicated to your favorite website design software. Discussions would focus around troubleshooting errors, improving your process, and learning new strategies. There are also web design industry groups focused on gathering to share stories, communicate about clients, and trade information about open gigs. If you want to hone your design skills while meeting others, a conference or webinar is another effective way to network. Look for in-person and online events to learn about new design trends, get more from your existing tools, and hone your skills. 09. Create content Last but not least, you’ll need to do some marketing. Aside from your website, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn also offer you a place to: Comment on the latest web design trends, practices, and news. Build an audience around your web design “brand” and establish yourself as an authority. Get in front of prospective clients or employers. Grow your following and expand your network. Just a few minutes every day sharing content and lightly engaging with others on social media will inevitably pay off. And you can link all your social media accounts on your website. The average web designer salary in 2022 Now that you know how to become a web designer, let’s briefly talk about earnings. Similar to how your responsibilities and career path differ depending on a number of factors, the same goes for your salary. Let’s start with the average annual salary for web designers in 2022 as reported to top job and salary sites: $52,296 ( PayScale ) $50,198 ( Indeed ) $58,644 ( Glassdoor ) $60,202 ( ZipRecruiter ) These are the average annual salaries expected for senior web designers: $72,757 ( PayScale ) $78,143 ( Indeed ) $85,265 ( Glassdoor ) $82,417 ( ZipRecruiter ) This is what UX designers are expected to earn, on average, this year: $75,373 ( PayScale ) $89,644 ( Indeed ) $101,768 ( Glassdoor ) $98,816 ( ZipRecruiter ) Keep in mind that these are not guarantees of earnings. These numbers are based on what existing designers have reported to these websites. That’s why there are such big differences in the salary ranges. Some of these designers could be building and managing enterprise websites for companies while others make their living off designing small business websites. Your level of expertise, niche, location, employment type will impact what you earn.

Your business ideas deserve a website,   secure your domain to begin →   Over the past couple of years, there’s been a surge in startups and entrepreneurship in the United States. Last year alone saw a record-breaking number of new businesses, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau , which recorded nearly 5.5 million new businesses. And on average, 4.7 million businesses are created each year. For today’s aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start new ventures, know that it takes a lot to compete in this landscape: becoming an entrepreneur requires planning, strategizing and even risk-taking. This step-by-step guide will show you what it takes to turn your business idea into action, from creating a business website to developing a brand to making money as an entrepreneur. Got a business idea? Lock down your brand’s domain before someone else does. Wix makes it easy to get your domain, email, hosting and SSL all in one place. Plus you'll get 24/7 support every step of the way. How to become an entrepreneur Use the following 10 steps as your personal checklist for success. Here’s how to become an entrepreneur: Find a business idea Get to know your target audience Test your idea Use a business plan template Create a website Hire great partner(s) Build your network Plan your finances Develop a strong brand Create value in your market 01. Find a business idea When trying to start a business, choose a business idea that will set you apart from others. For example, if you start a clothing line, mull over how you’ll niche down: What products will you sell? Will it be sustainable or ethnically made? Once you’ve narrowed it down, you can think about potential business names or use a business name generator to get your creative juices flowing. On top of finding your competitive edge, think about what you really love doing. What problems are you passionate about solving? Is it reducing waste from plastic straws? Your recipe for business success is sticking to what you love, know best and feel the world needs. Take a page from Kangaroo Hanger, which aims to reduce waste in a billion-dollar industry. The business started with a personal problem—founder and CEO Angus Willows couldn't get his clothes to stay on their plastic hangers. As Angus dug deeper into the hanger industry, he discovered two problems that needed solving: (1) most hangers had design flaws, and (2) it turns out that the hanger industry is horribly wasteful. Learn more about Kangaroo Hanger 's story. Photo source: Kangaroo 02. Get to know your target audience Although an idea can sound great, make sure that others will pay for it before you pat yourself on the back. A big reason why businesses fail is because there is no market need, according to CBInsights’ 2021 analysis of 100+ startup failure postmortems. This was something that Arkady Kovalev, founder and CEO of Heroes INN , witnessed firsthand. Now the go-to seller of trading cards and comic books in Mönchengladbach, Germany, Arkady saw many other comic stores shutter before he started Heroes INN. The problem? They didn't understand local preferences. Arkady launched Heroes INN after devoting an entire year to research. Today, the 'inn' is a hotspot for local city-dwellers in addition to travelers from all across the Eurozone. As you perform your own market research, list out the characteristics that define your target market. For example, what age range do they fall into? What are their hobbies? Where are they located? And so on. 03. Test your idea A trial period is important for gauging the interest around your product or service with your potential customers, getting first-hand experience understanding how you can best serve them, and seeing where you can make improvements. Treat this stage as the first step in selling your idea. The more you get your idea into the hands of consumers, the more feedback you’ll get and can use to build on your concept and create awareness. For example, you can send out samples, host focus groups or even work one-on-one. Your success depends on seriously taking in this feedback. Read also: How Forge to Table became Noah Rosen’s culinary calling 04. Use a business plan template Becoming a small business owner requires a lot of planning, from picking a type of entrepreneurship , building your concept and understanding it—to turning your idea into a reality. Start in an organized fashion with a business plan template that details your idea’s core components, from your mission statement to your marketing, operations plan and more. This document will help you visualize your goals and help you carry them out. It’s advised to also create an executive summary, or a high-level overview of your business. This report is essential when you need to communicate your business in brief, such as when looking for partners or requesting funding. 05. Create a website Whether you’re using it for online scheduling or eCommerce , or simply directing organic search visitors to your landing page , every business needs a website. In fact, entrepreneurs like Chef Tammy Maki attribute a lot of their long-term success to having an online presence. According to Tammy, her chocolate business, Raven Rising , was able to weather many obstacles and understand customer behaviors better from having an online shop. To create your own website, start by choosing a website template and customizing it to meet your needs. (Alternatively, you can create your site from a blank canvas or using a reliable AI website builder .) From the Homepage and About Us page to a contact form, consider what type of pages you’ll want for your professional website. After you’ve selected your template, you’ll need a free web hosting provider to take your website online—and keep it there. Finally, pick a domain name or online address, so people can find you online. Tip: Wix offers free business tools for your website and to build your brand, including a logo maker, pay stub generator, QR code generator, invoice generator, and form builder . 06. Hire great partner(s) Flying solo is great, but a supportive partner will help you see different challenges and opportunities you otherwise might have missed. When looking for a partner, think of the qualities you would like them to have and the people you know who possess them. Have a semi-planned business proposal when you reach out to your chosen potential partner, (your executive summary, for instance). Your first hire can set the mood for your company culture—the shared vision, norms and mores shared by your employees—even if you aren’t hiring a full team just yet. Such foresight can determine your business’s future success, as it ensures that everyone on your team will be in-sync. Read also: The story behind Fork n' Film’s unique cinematic experience that’s going global 07. Build your network Business is not a solitary journey, even if you choose not to have partners. Having knowledgeable and experienced mentors will help you understand your market better, take advantage of opportunities and avoid costly mistakes. To find this support system, attend relevant networking events, speaker series, fairs and expos. You can also host your own networking events or create an online community . 08. Plan your finances Planning your business finances might not be the most exciting step, but it is mandatory. Begin by getting a good grasp of the cost of starting a business . How much do you need? Run through the costs of materials and production, supplies, hiring employees, promotion, office space, etc. As a novice, it’s likely you’ll need to request help, so make sure to keep your expenses as low as possible to give yourself some financial room for external consulting. Once you have a good idea of how much funding you’ll need, check in with your financial situation. How much will you invest in yourself? If you’re looking for investors, having some of your own skin in the game will make them more willing to support you. Once you have the funds, open up a dedicated bank account to track your profits and expenses. It’ll streamline accounting and give you useful data to plan your business growth. 09. Develop a strong brand Like Spotify’s distinguishing vibrant green and black or Dove’s subtle “real beauty,” a consistent brand identity helps generate recognition and build trust amongst customers over time. Verbally, it’s composed of your core values, language, employees, and customers. Aesthetically, it involves your brand colors, font choices, logo and more. Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Jason Feifer has a side business of his own. His website, podcast, newsletter and recently published book are all dedicated to teaching fellow entrepreneurs how to be more resilient to change. His podcast and book both have the same name: Build for Tomorrow. Similarly, he uses the same font and colors of his logo to decorate his website. Tip: Use a logo maker and business card maker to showcase your brand identity. 10. Create value in your market Now that you have a tested product or service, a strong network, and brand channels for promotion–it’s time to choose how you will go to market. Whether it’s through routinely publishing relevant thought leadership on social media or an elevator pitch that shows why your offering beats your competitors, a clear, defined go-to-market message will help your customers see the unique reason to choose your brand over another. Are you ready to become an entrepreneur? So, you may already know starting a business takes more than having a good business idea. According to the Kauffman Foundation , the survival rate for new businesses was 81.7% in 2021, indicating that not all entrepreneurs will see a second year. With entrepreneurship being a highly competitive and complex practice, you need to be prepared to deal with its ups and downs. While the work may be fulfilling, it can also be incredibly stressful. You’re building a life around your business, possibly putting a strain on your p. And not only that, you will need both emotional and financial support systems to keep you on the path. Here are some clear signs that show you’re ready to become an entrepreneur. Learn to handle rejection Twenty percent of new businesses fail in the first year of operations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . As an entrepreneur, one of the first things you’ve got to learn is how to handle rejection. Whether you hear a “no” from a potential investor, client or publisher, having the right attitude about rejection can go a long way. Take the example of J.K. Rowling. The Harry Potter novelist has always been straightforward to fans about her own bumpy road to becoming a billionaire. In 2016, she tweeted two rejection letters she received, stating to her fans that they were an inspiration to keep going. Another good way to deal with rejection is to take a step back and focus on self-care, writes Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps in Bouncing Back from Rejection: Build the Resilience You Need to Get Back Up When Life Knocks You Down . Practicing self-care, Becker-Phelps explains, can be anything from meditating, running or even listening to music. Think of rituals that calm you down, thereby bringing you back to a balanced place. Have a steady flow of funds One of the most common small business challenges is lack of capital and cash flow, reported a recent Guidant Financial survey. At the early stage, a steady source of funding could mean either personal or family savings. If you need to search beyond your immediate reach, you could also apply for a public or private small business loan, business credit cards or extend your line of credit at the bank. Aside from having a steady revenue stream, you’ll also need to ensure steady profits to grow a business once it’s launched. By doing extensive market research on your business idea, you’ll be able to say whether there’s an actual demand for your product or service and the size of your potential customer base. Have a mentor A poll by Kabbage , a global small business financial service platform, found that “92% of small business owners agree mentors have a direct impact on growth and survival of their businesses.” Not only are mentors essential to achieving small business success, some of the biggest entrepreneurs in history have said they would not be where they are without their own mentors. In 2014, Oprah Winfrey said , “I’ve been blessed to have [poet] Maya Angelou as my mentor, mother/sister, and friend since my 20s. She was there for me always, guiding me through some of the most important years of my life. The world knows her as a poet but at the heart of her, she was a teacher. ‘When you learn, teach. When you get, give’ is one of my best lessons from her.” Through proper mentorship, you will gain not only wisdom, guidance and perspective, but also all the necessary skills for professional growth, such as communication and self-awareness. Check out SCORE , SBDC s, and the Women’s Business Centers for mentorship opportunities online. Be passionate about your idea Some of the richest companies to date—Venmo, Instagram, Uber and WhatsApp — started in economic downturns, reported TechCrunch . Their founders were resilient in pursuit of innovation and creativity. Being passionate about what you’re doing can help you stay motivated, even when the stakes are high. Read more: Take inspiration from entrepreneur and Cuppapug founder, Aaron Carty who launched his unique pug cafe idea, following his passion for pugs. Be comfortable taking risks Risk-taking plays a major role in becoming an entrepreneur. Without it, business leaders may not have gotten as far as they did. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg famously said , “The biggest risk is not taking risks. In a world that’s changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.” Get ready to be comfortable with uncertainty and step out of your comfort zone. Some risks you might face include: Leaving a full-time job and a steady paycheck Sacrificing time you'd normally take to enjoy your weekends or see friends and family Using your personal finances with no guarantee you’ll see a return on investment Miscalculating whether your product or service idea will take off That said, if you’re not quite ready to follow through with your plan, take it slow. Instead, start with adjusting a tiny part of your career at a time with one of these successful habits .