Domain and Hosting
If you already have a website up and running, you can skip to the next step.
Select a theme
Browse the dozens of Genesis themes and choose one that will satisfy your needs. Surely, there’s a StudioPress theme that’s perfect for your site.
Install a theme
Ready to get started? Continue reading.
How to set up a WordPress website with Genesis
Thinking of building your own WordPress website? We’ll walk you through it, step by step, using one of our favourite tools: the Genesis Framework. It’s what we use for most of our client work, and for good reason.
Why Choose Genesis Framework?
Genesis is a go-to for a lot of developers (us included). It’s fast, secure, SEO-friendly, and doesn’t come with unnecessary bloat. You get a solid foundation, built-in security, SEO features, optimized layouts, custom blocks, all in one neat package. And the best part? Setup is quick. One-click demo installs make getting started feel almost effortless.
A few years ago, we grabbed the Genesis Pro membership, which gives lifetime access to all StudioPress-made themes and ongoing support. If you’re planning to build more than one site, it’s worth the investment.
Tip: If you use WP Engine for hosting, you’ll get access to all StudioPress themes at no extra cost.
Start with Your Domain & Hosting
It all begins with a domain name. If you don’t already have one, grab it from a provider like GoDaddy.
Next up: hosting. If you’re new to WordPress, we always suggest managed WordPress hosting. You’ll get features made just for WordPress, like one-click installs, backups, staging servers, and built-in security, plus better support when things go sideways.
Our top hosting picks:
WP Engine – Starts at $33.33/month for one site. Premium WordPress themes + Genesis are included, and caching is already set up.
BigScoots – $34.95/month. Great for high-traffic sites, with next-level speed, security, and support.
SiteGround – A solid budget, friendly option, starting at $6.99/month.
Bluehost – Another beginner, friendly choice, starting at $5.42/month.
Choosing the Right Theme
There are a lot of WordPress themes out there. To make it easier, focus on themes that are: HTML5 ready, mobile responsive, lightweight and fast. When in doubt, browse live demos and choose the one closest to the website you’re imagining. This theme will be your child theme.
Think of WordPress as your car’s engine, Genesis as the frame, and your child theme as the paint job (StudioPress).
How to Install Genesis + Your Theme
If you chose one of the WordPress managed hosting, WordPress will be installed automatically or with one-click button. To install them head to your WordPress Dashboard → Appearance → Themes, click ‘Add New’, then ‘Upload’, upload the Genesis ZIP file first, but don’t activate it. Next, upload your child theme and click Activate. That’s it, you’re ready to start customizing!
PixelUp Picks: Our Favourite Genesis Child Themes
Whether you’re building a portfolio, blog, or online store, Genesis + a strong theme gives you a flexible, scalable foundation. And if you ever need help choosing or setting things up, feel free to reach out, we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
Elena Chis
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