How to Create a Squarespace Account and Integrate Domain

What is Squarespace?

Squarespace is a website-building and hosting platform that provides users with the tools to create professional websites without requiring extensive technical knowledge. Specifically an all-in-one solution for designing, launching, and managing websites.

This is a premium web hosting service that provides beautiful templates, an easy-to-use drag-and-drop editor, blogging, eCommerce tools, portfolio creation tools and more!

What is a Squarespace domain integration?

Squarespace domain integration is when you link a third-party custom domain to a site built in Squarespace. It helps to give your site a unique space on the web with an exact and professional web address like www.yourbusiness.yourbusiness.squarespace.com.

How to create a Squarespace account?

Step 1: Sign Up for a Squarespace Account

1. Visit Squarespace.com: Go to the official Squarespace website and click on the "Get Started" button.

2. Choose a Template: Select a website template that matches your desired style. Templates can be customized later, so focus on the general layout.

3. Create Your Account: Enter your email, create a password, and set up your account. You can also sign up using Google or Apple credentials.

Step 2: Set Up Your Website

1. Launch the Website Editor: Once your account is created, Squarespace will guide you to the editor for your selected template.

2. Customize Your Site: Add your site title, images, pages, and content. The editor provides drag-and-drop functionality for easy customization.

3. Preview Your Design: Use the "Preview" mode to ensure your website looks great on desktop and mobile devices.

Upgrade Your Account and Select a Plan

Squarespace offers a 14-day free trial, allowing you to explore and build your site. Once you're ready to launch, you'll need to upgrade to a paid plan.

• Access Billing Settings: From your Squarespace dashboard, click on "Settings," then navigate to "Billing & Account."

• Choose a Plan: Click on "Billing," then select "Upgrade Your Plan." Squarespace offers several plans:

• Personal Plan: Ideal for individuals or small groups looking to display work, write a blog, or establish a basic web presence. Key features include a mobile-optimized website, a free custom domain for one year, website analytics, SSL security, and 24/7 customer support.

• Business Plan: Suitable for more robust sites requiring unlimited contributors, premium features like Squarespace Commerce, custom code, and integrations with third-party services. This plan is ideal for displaying your work, creating a home for your business, and selling products on a small shop page.

• Commerce Plans: Designed for businesses focused on selling online, offering advanced features tailored for e-commerce.

• Payment Options: You can choose to pay monthly or annually. Opting for an annual payment often includes perks like a free domain for one year.
  
  

Step 3: Connect Your Domain

You can connect an existing domain or purchase one through Squarespace. Here's how:

Option 1: Use an Existing Domain

1. Go to Settings > Domains: Navigate to the Domains section in your Squarespace settings.

2. Select “Connect a Domain”: Enter your existing domain name and select your provider (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap).

3. Follow the setup instructions: Squarespace will provide DNS settings. Log in to your domain registry and update the DNS records as instructed.

Option 2: Purchase a Domain

1. Select “Get a Domain”: In the Domains section, search for and purchase a domain through Squarespace.

2. Automatically Connected: Domains purchased through Squarespace will automatically integrate with your website.

Verify Your Domain

After purchasing or connecting your domain, Squarespace will send a verification email. Click the link in the email to verify your domain and complete the setup process.

Step 4: Finalize and Launch

1. Check Your Settings: Ensure your website settings, such as SEO titles, descriptions, and contact information, are updated.

2. Publish Your Site: Click "Publish" to make your website live. If you’re still working on your design, keep it in “Private” mode until it’s ready.
   

Tips for Success

• Enable SSL: Secure your website by enabling the SSL under advanced settings.

• Make sure you get professional communications: use G Suite or other email providers

• Measure Performance: Use Squarespace Analytics to Monitor Visitors and Engagement

Following these steps will help you have your working Squarespace site and its domain linked so that everything is ready for the big world as a finished product.