What are the best sites to start a blog and are they free?
Jul, 31 2023
Navigating the Blogging World: Where to Begin?
Well, let’s dive right into it, shall we? One of the most frequently asked questions I get as a blogger is "Ezekiel, what are the best sites to begin a blog, and are they free?". Now, I wish my answer could be as straightforward as, pop some popcorn and watch your favorite show, but alas, it's a tad more nuanced than that. So, without further ado, let's delve into the world of blogging.
The intricate art of blogging is capable of ushering you into the world’s biggest stage in the comfort of your PJs, with a hot cup of coffee by your side (or chai...or matcha, I don't discriminate). But first things first, how do you even get started? Or even more importantly, where do you get started without emptying your piggy bank? It's a bit like trying to choose the perfect jelly donut from a stall brimming with dozens of mouth-watering options. Too bad Baxter can't take the wheel of the dilemma donut cart this time, huh?
First Stop: The WordPress Express
Our first stop is none other than WordPress.com. Now don’t confuse this with its cousin WordPress.org. The latter is akin to buying a complete but unassembled Lego set - it’s all yours, but you have to piece it together yourself. However, WordPress.com is like playing with Legos under an expert's guidance. Basically, you don't have to worry about hosting or messy back-end technical stuff - they handle that stuff for you. And yes, it's free to start! Think of this as the Airbnb of blogging – just find your spot, settle in, and you’re good to go.
To add some awesome sauce to this deal, WordPress comes with the ability to add tags, categories, and other SEO tools that help to push your blog out into the uncharted territory of the World Wide Web. It's like having a baked pie and getting to eat it at the same table with Neil Armstrong. Did I mention that it also allows for customization and professional themes for those taking their blogging game to heights only rivaled by Everest? Well, it does!
Fasten Your Seatbelts: We're Heading to Blogger
Next up on our grand tour is Blogger. Ah, Blogger - the classic underdog story. Founded in 1999, it has withstood the turbulent waves of the Internet and emerged as a reliable and trusted platform for bloggers of all generations. Why? Well, dear reader, one word - simplicity. No fuss, no mess, no twirling the dervish. Just straight-up, old-fashioned blogging.
Besides being as a steady as a reliable pack mule, Blogger also offers customization to make your blog shine like a freshly polished gem. But, remember, at its core, Blogger is all about simplicity and accessibility – perfect for those who are dipping their toes in the blogging waters for the first time. And while it may not have as many bells and whistles as other platforms, it is free and served by the big daddy of the internet itself - Google. Now, if that doesn't give it a stamp of reliability, I don't know what will!
Turning The Corner: Welcome to Wix
Let's turn the corner and visit Wix - the vibrant, flashy, overachiever cousin in the blogging family. With over 500 pre-made designs like your grandmother's mac and cheese recipe, Wix is all about giving your blog that personal touch. Think of this as your own personal genie granting you every blogging wish your heart desires.
From animation to video backgrounds, Wix lets your blog strut its stuff on the Fashion Week runway. And though it's not entirely free, it does offer a basic free package to get you started. And hey, it's totally fine to go with the free version initially until you get your bearings. In the blogging world, there's no shame in being a thrifty spender!
Final Destination: Squarespace
Last, but certainly not least, we're pulling into Squarespace. The poster child for "What you see is what you get." Sqarespace, like that one friend we all have, wears its elegance with a certainty that's second to none. Yes, it may be a bit more expensive than the other platforms, but it's like paying for a fine dining experience - it's simply worth it.
Squarespace helps you create stunning, visually appealing blogs with its exquisite templates and intuitive design tools. If you care about making a strong visual impression (who doesn't!?), this is the platform for you. And while Squarespace isn't free, it does offer a free trial that lets you play around and decide if it’s the right fit for you. Think of it as trying on that perfect outfit before deciding to buy.
So, in conclusion, whether you choose WordPress, Blogger, Wix, Squarespace, or any other platform out there, my words of wisdom will remain the same - dive in, don't be afraid to try new things, and most of all, have an absolute blast while doing it! In the extensive and colorful world of blogging, there's no such thing as making the wrong choice. Each platform brings its own unique flavor to the table and it's up to you to decide which dish appeals to you the most. Good luck and keep blogging, friends!