Creating your own WordPress website doesn't have to feel like rocket science. With the right tools (👋 hey, SiteGround!) and a dash of confidence, you can go from zero to launched in just a few clicks.
Whether you're a solopreneur, creative, or small business owner — this guide walks you through setting up your WordPress site using SiteGround, step-by-step. From domains to plugins, themes to SSL — I’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Sign Up & Login
Once you've signed up for your SiteGround hosting account, you’ll land in your Client Area with a friendly “Welcome” screen and a big purple button that says Set Up Site.
Click Set Up Site to launch SiteGround’s easy 3-step website setup wizard.
✨ BOLD Tip: Starting out? Choose the StartUp Plan and upgrade later. Grow with confidence!
Step 2: Register or Connect Your Domain
Your domain is your digital storefront — make it count. SiteGround lets you:
✅ Register a new domain
✅ Use one you already own
✅ Use a temporary domain (great for testing)
🛠️ Step 3: Set Up Your Website
After choosing your domain, SiteGround launches a friendly setup wizard. You’ll be prompted to:
- Choose: Start a New Website or Migrate Existing Site
- Select: WordPress or SiteGround Site Builder as your platform. I recommend WordPress for ultimate flexibility.
🔒 Step 4: Secure It With SSL (and Sleep Easy 😴)
SiteGround automatically installs an SSL certificate (indicated by a green lock in your browser). You don't need to lift a finger — it just works.
🎨 Step 5: Style It With a Theme
After WordPress installs, you’ll see the WordPress Starter wizard. It helps you:
- Browse modern themes.
- Choose a layout that fits your vibe.
- Add useful starter plugins (like contact forms)
✨ Top Tip: Stick with lightweight, responsive themes. Astra, Kadence, and SiteGround’s own suggestions are fab.
🔌 Step 6: Must-Have Plugins (No Bloat, Just Power)
Here’s a short list to get you started:
Plugin
What it does
WP Forms Easy contact forms
WooCommerce E-commerce capabilities
Rank Math SEO Helps boost your search rankings
WP Super Cache Speeds up your site
Akismet Spam comment filter
UpdraftPlus Automatic backups
🔍 Pro Tip: Only install what you 100% need to keep your site speedy and lean.
Photo by Justin Morgan on Unsplash
✍️ Step 7: Add Your Content
Now comes the fun part — bringing your brand to life!
- Pages to add: Home, About, Services, Contact
- Blog Posts: Regular content builds SEO authority
- Images & Media: Upload to your WordPress Media Library
✅ Step 8: Test Before You Go Live
Before shouting “we’re live!” — do this checklist:
✔ Mobile Responsive? (Use Google’s Mobile Test Tool)
✔ Links working?
✔ Contact form tested?
✔ Grammar + typos?
✔ Fast loading?
📣 Step 9: Promote Like a Pro
Once your site’s live — it’s time to attract traffic! Here’s how:
- Email marketing: Start growing your list (MailerLite is 🔥)
- Pinterest & Socials: Share your content with branded graphics
- Basic SEO: Use keywords in your pages, blog posts, and images
- Local SEO: Claim your Google My Business profile if relevant
📚 Related Reading: Don’t Just Write, Be Seen: A Beginner’s Guide to Promoting Your Blog Content
🔄 Step 10: Maintain Like a Boss
The web doesn’t sleep — but your site can stay safe with a little TLC.
- Backups: Use SiteGround’s automatic backups or UpdraftPlus
- Updates: Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins updated
- Security: Add Wordfence or Sucuri
- Analytics: Connect Google Analytics + Search Console
🎉 That's all, folks!
Building your first website with SiteGround + WordPress? Totally doable.
No overwhelm. No jargon. Just simple, clear steps to get you online. You’re not just launching a website — you’re launching a dream.
And I'm cheering you on all the way 💛