How to create an online store when you already have a Wordpress blog.

If you already have a WordPress blog, you’re off to a great start! But if you’re looking to sell products or services, adding an online store to your blog is a game changer. The good news is that using a simple online store builder alongside your WordPress blog can make this process seamless and hassle-free. Here's how to do it.

Why Use an Online Store Builder Instead of WordPress Plugins?

While WordPress offers various e-commerce plugins like WooCommerce, they can be overwhelming for beginners or bloggers who want a lightweight, straightforward solution. Online store builders provide:

• Ease of Use: No coding or technical expertise required.
• Speed: Set up your store in minutes.
• Affordability: Many platforms, like vendors.so online store builder, start at just $4.99/month.
• Integration with WordPress: Use your WordPress blog for content marketing while your store handles the selling.

How to Set Up an Online Store with Your WordPress Blog

Step 1: Choose an Online Store Builder

Select an online store builder that fits your needs. Look for features like:

• Simple setup with no coding required.
• Secure payment processing.
• Customizable store designs to match your blog’s aesthetic.
• Integration options with WordPress.

Vendors.so offers these features and more, making it a perfect choice for WordPress bloggers.

Step 2: Create Your Online Store

1. Sign Up: Create an account on vendors.so for an easy, but robust online storefront.
2. Set Up Your Store: Add your logo, colors, and branding elements. Upload your products or services with images, descriptions, and prices.
3. Configure Payments: Link your payment gateway (e.g. Stripe) to accept payments securely.
4. Set Up Shipping or Delivery: Define your shipping policies and fees for physical products.

Sample of a vendors.so store

Step 3: Connect Your Store to Your WordPress Blog

You don’t need to overhaul your WordPress blog to integrate an online store. Here’s how to do it:

Option 1: Add a Menu Link to Your Store

• Go to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Appearance > Menus.
• Add a custom link pointing to your store’s URL (e.g., vendors.so/s/indiestore).
• Label it as "Shop" or "Store" to make it clear for your visitors.

Option 2: Use a Button or Banner

• Add a prominent call-to-action button or banner on your WordPress blog’s homepage, linking to your store.
• Example: "Check Out My Products" or "Visit My Store"

Step 4: Promote Your Store Through Your Blog

Your WordPress blog is a powerful marketing tool to drive traffic to your store. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Write Blog Posts About Your Products: Showcase how your products solve a problem or add value. For example, if you sell handmade candles, write a post about the benefits of using eco-friendly candles.
2. Add Product Links in Posts: Within your blog content, link directly to relevant products. For example, "Check out our lavender-scented candle here."
3. Email Subscribers: If you have a mailing list, announce your new store to your subscribers.

Tips for Success

• Keep Branding Consistent: Match your store’s design with your blog’s theme to create a seamless experience for your visitors.
• Offer Exclusive Deals: Encourage blog readers to visit your store by offering discounts or freebies.
• Monitor Performance: Use your store’s analytics tools to track sales and customer behavior, and adjust your strategies as needed.
• Promote Regularly: Keep your store top of mind by mentioning it in new blog posts and on your social media channels.