About to buy a domain for your new website and have no idea where the eff to do it? 

Holler. 

These decisions seem crazy. Because the ol’ google search page for “buying a domain” is a frickin overwhelming hole of suggestions. 

Don’t stress, we’ve got you!

Nothing is scarier than the terms associated with building a new website. And nothing makes it worse than having to navigate this vocabulary all on your own. Want a breakdown of all website terminology? Click here to view our handy little Website Terminology list.

Where you purchase the domain for your website is critical. Not only because of the costs associated but mainly for ease of use and your ability to have customization.

Questions you need to answer before you purchase your domain:

1. Can I access and change my DNS records with the click of a button?
2. Does my email suite integrate well with their system?
3. What is the sign in process like?
4. Can I contact support through chat?

Find below our top choices for where to purchase your domain and why we love them:

Squarespace Domains (used to be Google Domains)

Cost: starts at $21.60/year

DNS Record Access: Yes

Email suite integration: Google Workspace

Support rating: Low. If you need help you’ll be directed to articles before being able to open an email chat.

Why we like it: Easy sign-up, moderate cost, easy to use, connect, customize and transfer. And best of all – no hidden fees.

Why we don’t like it: It feels personal that Squarespace purchased our old fav, Google Domains and despite saying they wouldn’t change anything they instead made everything a little more expensive for us.

Click here to learn more and to purchase your domain with Squarespace

GoDaddy

Cost: as low as $2/year depending on popularity

DNS Record Access: Yes

Email suite integration: Microsoft 365

Support rating: High. Easy click to connect to a live chat.

Why we like it: Moderately easy to use and navigate and has the ability to add a contributor so you won’t have to give out your sign in info to your web designer.

Why we don’t like it: For one thing you have to purchase SSL as an outside cost for $99/year a steep cost for something that is free on other platforms. And also I HATE Microsoft, but if you’re a Microsoft bestie, this may be a perfect fit for you.

Click here to learn more and to purchase your domain through GoDaddy

BlueHost

Cost: starting at $17.48/year

DNS Record Access: Yes

Email suite integration: Google Workspace

Support rating: High. Easy click to connect to a live chat 24/7.

Why we like it: Having 24/7 support that is reliable is the only reason we need.

Why we don’t like it: They want you to set up everything through them like your web hosting, your website, your life lol. So it can feel a bit “salesy” and confusing in language as they try to funnel you to purchase more.

Click here to learn more and to purchase your domain through BlueHost

Need more tips on how to set up your new website? I want that for you too. Head to our main blog page for everything you’ll need to get up and running like a pro.