Online Business Resources
If you want to start and run a successful website, here are the resources you’ll need in order to build and eventually monetize your blog.
Quick Access: WordPress Themes // Website Hosting // WordPress Plugins // Design Tools // Business Tools // Camera Equipment
This page contains affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, should you make a purchase by clicking on any one of the links below, I will earn a commission. I only recommend brands I have personally used and trust.
WordPress Themes
Divi by Elegant Themes: This is my favorite WordPress themes because it is completely customizable. In fact, it is the theme I’m currently using on this website.
Elementor: I love this drag and drop WordPress theme because they offer a free version for those who are on a tight budget. You can design stunning websites with this theme.
Creative Market: You will find tons of really nicely designed and reasonably priced premium WordPress themes on this website. I have purchased and used many themes from Creative Market.
Website Hosting
Godaddy: This site is currently hosted by Godaddy. One of my favorite features that Godaddy has is the Installatron web application installer. This allows you to easily install WordPress to your cPanel, other apps, backup your site, and make clones your site. Cloning your site comes in handy if/when you want to update your website but don’t want any downtime. Simply clone your time, make edits to the cloned site while the original is still live and then switch it out once the new site is done. Use my link and get 30% off!
Bluehost: Another hosting provider that I highly recommend is Bluehost. I really like the user-friendly setup of their cPanel. It is extremely easy to setup and navigate. It is great for people who aren’t very tech savvy. With Bluehost, you get a free SSL certificate.
Namecheap: This is a great hosting provider for those who are on a budget. I also currently have one of my websites hosted on Namecheap. Like Bluehost, you get a free SSL certificate. Namecheap has excellent customer service that will help you ever step of the way.
WordPress Plugins
Divi Builder Plugin: As I meantioned above, Divi is one of my favorite WordPress themes. But what if you already have a theme and would like the capability to customize your design? Not a problem. You can install the Divi Plugin and use the builder to create stunning designs within your third party template structure. It works with any theme.
Monarch: With this plugin, you can add social media sharing buttons to your site. With more than 20 social sharing networks to display on your website, this plugin gives you multiple display options.
Bloom: This plugin allows you to setup fully customizable opt-in forms to your site. You can setup different targeted opt-in forms on specific pages. You can also setup opt-ins that are triggered based on specific actions taken by users and much more.
Design Tools
Creative Market: As mentioned above, you will find tons of really nice WordPress themes on this website but you will also find tons of other great design assets. There are nice fonts, graphics, social media templates, and more! Every week they give away 6 free design elements, so check them out now.
Canva: I love Canva because it allows you to design your own graphics for just about anything. This site is great for people who don’t have Photoshop. You can design graphics for your website, social media, and much much more!
Freepik: This is another great resource to find high quality graphics, vector images, and stock photos. Adding good visual aids to your content and be helpful for your website visitors.
Business Tools
Shareasale: Depending on the type of business you have, you may want to consider affiliate marketing. Shareasale is a great platform for beginners because it is relatively easy to signup and get started. Simply search for products that align with your business and you wouldn’t mind promoting.
Fiverr: Running an online business isn’t easy, especially if you try to do everything yourself. Outsourcing tasks to freelancers is crucial to staying on schedule and not falling behind.
Constant Contact: Email marketing is an essential part of any online business. It allows you to build relationships with prospects, leads, and customers because it gives you a chance to speak directly to them, in their inbox, at a time that is convenient for them. Try it free!
Teachable: Sharing your knowledge with your community, on a topic that will be beneficial to them, is one of the best ways you can help people. Teachable is a great all-in-one platform that anyone can use with ease. No need to be tech savvy. But if you do get stuck, the Teachable support team is incredibly helpful.
Camera Equipment
When it comes to having an online business, more than likely you’ll need to have great photos. Photos and videos are a part of producing content. If you have the opportunity and time take your own photos rather than using stock images, that would be the best option because it makes your brand more authentic. Check out a couple of cameras I’ve personally used and highly recommend for newbies who are professional photographers. Both cameras have flip screens and you can connect them to an app that turns your phone into a remote for self-portrait opportunities.