Thank You — Here Is Your Starter Kit
Beginner’s Setup Starter Kit for the Divi WordPress Dashboard
I’ll walk you through building a local service landing page step by step, using a proven layout designed to convert and built with SEO best practices in mind.
Bookmark This Page So You Can Come Back
Watch this short welcome video first. Then work through the setup steps below in order.
Now You’re Ready to Build Your Website
Your Get-It-Done List
Check off each step as you go. The setup becomes much simpler when you follow the right order.
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Pick a Domain Name
Choose something short, memorable, and easy to spell. Use Namecheap to register your domain.
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Get Hosting With cPanel
I recommend HostGator or Bluehost. Make sure your plan includes cPanel access for easy management.
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Update Your Nameservers
Point your domain to your hosting company. Your host will email you the correct nameservers to enter in your domain registrar settings.
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Install a Clean Copy of WordPress
Choose one installation method. I recommend the manual method because it starts clean, with fewer suggested trials and extras that can cause confusion.
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Clean House
Delete default posts such as “Hello World,” sample pages, and preinstalled plugins you will not need.
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Install Security, SEO, and Divi 5
Follow the video to complete the security and SEO updates. Then download and install Divi 5 from Elegant Themes.
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Set the Basic WordPress Settings
Go to Settings → Permalinks → Post Name. Set your time zone and site title to match your business. The recommended plugins are listed below.
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Upload Your Child Theme
If you plan to customize Divi, install your Divi child theme to protect your customizations during future updates.
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Preview Your Site
Visit your domain in a private browser window and confirm that the site loads correctly on desktop and mobile.
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Build Your Website
Now that Divi is installed, use the full video series to build your local service website.
Get the Divi 5 Quick Start Checklist: Grab it here.
For local service businesses: Get the Google Business Profile Checklist.
Rey’s Recommended Tools
These are the tools and services I use for client websites. Each has been tested and chosen to make the setup easier without breaking the bank.
| Category | Tool or Service | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Domain | Namecheap | Reliable, easy DNS management |
| Hosting | HostGator | cPanel support and dependable uptime |
| Theme | Divi 5 | Flexible, beginner-friendly visual builder |
| Backup Plugin | All-in-One WP Migration | Free backup and migration option |
| SEO Plugin | Rank Math | Easy setup for essential SEO controls |
| Forms Plugin | WPForms Lite | Beginner-friendly drag-and-drop forms |
| Cache Plugin | LiteSpeed Cache | Website speed optimization |
| Email Marketing | GetResponse | A practical platform for building your list |
Troubleshooting and Pro Tips
Even a smooth setup can hit a bump. These are some of the most common issues and how to handle them.
WordPress Login Page
This is usually found at yourdomain.com/wp-admin. Bookmark it so you can always find your way back in.
Forgotten Password?
Click “Lost your password?” on the login screen, then check your email and spam folder for the reset link.
Slow Website?
Install LiteSpeed Cache or ask your host whether it provides server-level caching. Speed matters for users and search visibility.
Messed Something Up?
Restore your latest backup with All-in-One WP Migration. This is why you install a backup plugin before making major changes.
Want to Learn Faster?
Follow my Divi 5 playlist on YouTube. It walks you through building pages visually without coding.
Want to Launch Your WordPress Site Faster and Smarter?
I highly recommend checking this out. It’s a powerful shortcut that saves time, removes the guesswork, and helps you create a website you’ll be proud of—even if you’re starting from scratch.
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