When it comes to setting up your author website, the first step of choosing a web host can be the most intimidating. For a detailed comparison of platforms, I recommend this article, but here are the basics.
Most of these hosts offer a free plan with their domain in the web addresses (authorname.wordpress.com) that lets you test out their web builder before committing.
WordPress: The Everyman
$4–8/month[1]
Pros: WordPress’s best feature is its popularity. Tutorials are easy to find for almost any problem you encounter. More expensive plans offer integrations to a broad range of other services and plugins, ensuring that your website can expand with your business.
Cons: The interface presents a bit of a learning curve, which may be difficult for first-time designers.
Best for: Authors who have the time (and courage!) to learn a new program, and who want a platform that can grow with their brand.
WIX: Least Effort Required
$14/month
Pros: Wix’s web generator will do 90 percent of the design work for you. Input your website type (author), a logo (as simple as your name in a nice font), and your contact information, and Wix will offer you several premade, professional designs.
Cons: Wix excels at professional simplicity, but it’s not particularly customizable, and it doesn’t scale up well.
Best for: Authors who want the absolute basics with as little effort as possible.
Squarespace: The Hoi Palloi
$14–23/month
Pros: Squarespace’s simpler interface is less daunting for beginning designers, and the platform lends itself to classy, clean websites. More expensive plans also offer online store options and other integrations for expanding your business.
Cons: The most expensive option, and it doesn’t offer a free plan for test driving.
Best for: Authors who can afford to skip the learning curve for WordPress, or who want a classy website with fewer required design choices.
[1] Most of these hosts offer more expensive plans, but the price ranges I list offer all the features you should need.
Check out our related articles, “Set Up an Author Website That Sells Your Books” and “The Basics of Website Metadata for Authors.”
Want help setting up your author platform? We’d love to help! Contact us to get the ball rolling.
Callie Johnson works as Editorial Assistant at Kelli Sallman Writing and Editing with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts and Creative Writing from Calvary University. She previously interned with Kelli for two years, working as proofreader and copyeditor on several manuscripts. Her strange obsessions include kerning, East Coker, and the sound of cows chewing.