Questions I get asked about Creating a Website

I get a lot of questions about how to easily and affordably create a website. From "what's the cheapest hosting" to "how do I get a logo made"?

That's a pretty loaded question. Yikes. ;)

The first thing you really need to do is figure out how much control you want to have over your website and how technical you are.

Option #1 - Pay someone to create your website.

I create websites for businesses, so this is something I am familiar with. This option is only best if you don't plan to add content to the website after it is created.

OR if you plan to learn how to maintain the site down the road.
Otherwise, you're going to be paying me or whoever your designer is every time you want to make changes. Ouch.

Option #2 - Create your own Website

If you want to learn how to create websites, then I recommend purchasing

Front Page
or
XSP - http://www.makewebsitesfast.com

I use both and they each have their pros and cons. If you're creating a lot of sites, then XSP is MUCH easier. In fact, I prefer it and use it for many of my newer websites. It's great for information sites (content) sites, but does not have a shopping cart built in.

Option #3 - Use a Site Builder.

A lot of moms opt to go with this option. It's easy are pie. The only hard part here is that you pay a higher monthly fee, but it does include hosting so it's your only fee.
Here are the programs I recommend -
http://www.internetbasedfamily.com/?offer=EasySite
Includes a shopping cart. This is as easy as it gets.
and
http://buildit.sitesell.com/startnow9.html
This is the Rolls Royce of site builders. It not only helps you build a website, but it also helps you choose keywords to make it rank well in the Search Engines.

My recommendation? Both companies offer a trial period for free. Sign up for each, log in and play around. You'll quickly discover which is right for you.

Option #4 - Go with a WordPress blog.

It's a simple and easy content management system. If you're not technical, you can pay someone to install it relatively inexpensively, and have a website in the blink of an eye.
I have several Word Press blogs. You can see an example here -
http://www.WhatCanIMakeWithIt.com

HOSTING -

You'll need hosting for each option above except the site builders.

The hosting I use and recommend can be found here -
Web Hosting Reviews
If you are building one or two small sites, the 1.25 per month plan is plenty.
If you plan to build a lot of sites, or store large audio and video files, then I recommend the unlimited plan listed.
I use both.

Whew. Please let me know what additional questions you have about starting a website. I'm happy to get more in depth and cover things like logos, pictures and content in the coming weeks.

Warmly,
Nicole