Category: WordPress

  • Top 10 Fastest WordPress Hosting In 2019

    Top 10 Fastest WordPress Hosting In 2019

    Which is the fastest WordPress hosting in 2019?

    Speed is everything. In today’s world, the average attention span for a website visitor is under 6 seconds. 

    If you want to keep the website visitors happy, you need to have a fast loading website.

    I’d worked with dozens of web hosting companies — on a personal and business basis over the years. Speed geek and an extremely hard-to-handle customer, I’m always determined to get the best value from the web hosting company. 

    This post will be different. Seriously.

    Many blogs are publishing ‘so-called’ reviews simply for affiliate earnings but for me, I ought to be different.

    Some of these links are affiliate links of mine and more importantly, the WordPress hosting review you will find below are based on my experience (and not just those who had paid me to do so).

    The term “the fastest WordPress hosting provider” often represent the meaning of speed.

    Do you know by subscribing to a managed WordPress hosting isn’t going to guarantee you fast WordPress hosting? There are some bad managed WordPress hosting in the market which you need to avoid at all cost (more on that later).

    Now, back to the topic on the fastest WordPress hosting in 2019.

    Most people choose a hosting provider often based on price but when you care about performance and search engine optimization (SE), that’s a bad idea of going cheap.

    Going for a cheap WordPress hosting is not going to give you superior hosting speed including bad customer service.

    A good WordPress hosting will provide superior server performance, alongside with excellent customer support.

    Carry on reading below to discover the fastest WordPress hosting in 2019.

    Web Hosting Price Per Month Advantages Speed Test
    WP Engine From $35 per month Premium WordPress themes and top notch customer support 2.57 second
    Kinsta Hosting From $30 per month Custom dashboard for domain management, CDN included, daily backup and staging area 737 ms
    WP Pro by BlueHost From $19.95 per month 100+ premium themes, Jetpack Premium, CDN, email hosting, daily backup and SEO tools included 3.04 seconds
    WPX Hosting From $20.83 per month Unlimited everything (migration, bandwidth, email and SSL) and staging area 2.53 seconds
    Pressable From $45 per month Personalized onboarding, CDN, top notch support, unlimited space, staging and enterprise level solutions 1.89 seconds
    SiteGround From $3.95 per month Free website transfer, super low entry level plans 1.24 seconds
    Cloudways From $10 per month Pay as you go, multiple data centres and affordable pricing 5.58 seconds
    A2 Hosting From $3.92 per month Free migration, anytime money back guarantee, optimized servers (higher plans) 2.37 seconds
    Exabytes From $4 per month Entry level plan, good customer support and unlimited data transfer 7.39 seconds
    DigitalOcean From $5 per month Pay as you go pricingmodel, unmanaged hosting (best for developers) 1.61 seconds

    Important: The above speed test is based on 5 tests on the web hosting homepage. 

    It is important to understand that there are many different types of WordPress hosting companies that offer wide range of services.

    I hope the table above gives you an idea on why they are the fastest WordPress hosting companies.

    Want to know more?

    Carry on reading below to learn more about each of the WordPress hosting services.

    1. WP Engine

    WP Engine Fastest WordPress Hosting

    WP Engine is a WordPress platform backed by a team of WordPress experts who are available 24/7 to make things easy for you. Powering more than 90,000 clients around the world, WP Engine is an excelent choice for small websites and enterprise level.

    When it comes to the fastest WordPress hosting, WP Engine is one of the undisputed managed WordPress hosting in the hosting industry. With the latest merging with StudioPress, WP Engine has become one of the best managed WordPress hosting services.

    Advantages using WP Engine

    • WP Engine offers best-in-class architecture and highly redundant systems keep WordPress fast, scalable and secure.
    • Support team that delivers over 800 hours of around-the-clock, professional WordPress support daily.
    • Various server locations (database centers) to choose from.
    • WordPress hosting packages that are custom-made for both small and high traffic website.
    • High security and fully optimized WordPress hosting server.
    • Offers the fastest WordPress hosting for eCommerce websites, WooCommerce websites and complex website structures that needs high quality backups and a staging environment.
    • Content Delivery Network (CDN) integration ensures websites load fast.
    • 60 days money back guarantee.

    Give WP Engine a run for its money!

    Grab this hosting deal with 60 days full money back guarantee!

    2. Kinsta Hosting

    Kinsta Fastest WordPress Hosting

    Kinsta is not your average WordPress hosting company. All of Kinsta servers run on Google Cloud Platform and is definitely an alternative to WP Engine. 

    Kinsta comes with customized dashboard (instead of the typical cPanel) for you to manage everything under one roof. From enabling CDN service, purging the cache and to issuing SSL, Kinsta makes it extremely easy for both beginners and advanced users to manage their websites.

    Advantages using Kinsta hosting

    • Powered by Google Cloud Platform that offers very fast WordPress hosting.
    • Custom site management (known as MyKinsta) that offers everything under one roof.
    • Various server locations (database centers) to choose from.
    • Live chat support is available 24/7 (extremely fun and courteous support team).
    • Kinsta has both active and passive measures to stop attacks and malicious intent in its tracks.
    • Kinsta free migration services include expert migration team that will take care of everything for you.
    • Unique and intuitive staging feature for website developers.
    • Kinsta checks the status of all websites we host every 2 minutes. That translates to 720 checks for each of your sites every day.
    • 30 days money back guarantee.

    Get blazing fast WordPress speed!

    Grab this hosting deal with 30 days full money back guarantee!

    3. WP Pro by BlueHost

    Fastest WordPress Hosting Bluehost WP Pro

    This is by far one of the cheapest WordPress hosting in the market … which I’m totally in love with.

    While most of my websites are hosted on Kinsta, I still find WP Pro by BlueHost a strong competitor in the WordPress hosting niche.

    BlueHost is one of the most popular shared hosting services and with the newly launch of WP Pro service, they had came into the industry not as an underdog but as a competitor to others.

    Advantages using WP Pro

    • Fully managed WordPress hosting service
    • Comes with all in one marketing and website management dashboard
    • Servers that are optimized for WordPress hosting (for speed and performance)
    • Over 100+ premium WordPress themes included
    • Daily backup
    • Automatic malware detection and removal
    • Domain privacy protection at no additional cost
    • Much improved web hosting support for clients

    Try the all new WP Pro by BlueHost

    You are guaranteed to be “wow-ed”!

    4. WPX Hosting

    WPX Fastest WordPress Hosting

    WPX Hosting is a very new managed WordPress hosting that had received quite a lot of positive feedback since the launch of it.

    There are several takeaways using WPX Hosting — firstly, it is said to be the fastest WordPress hosting and secondly, it offers email hosting which not many managed WordPress hosting companies do.

    WPX doesn’t have many data centres around the world as compared to other hosting companies but it certainly has some awesome features to back it up!

    Advantages using WPX Hosting

    • Insanely fast support (maximum of 30 seconds wait time for first response).
    • WPX CDN services included in all packages at no additional cost.
    • Absolutely free SSL certificates (issuance/creation).
    • Daily malware and backup services.
    • Simple pricing that works for everyone (regardless of your budget and website traffic).
    • Unlimited site migrations (again, at no additional cost).
    • Unlimited email hosting services.

    Get started on WPX right now!

    Grab this hosting deal with best in class support (under 30 seconds).

    5. Pressable

    Pressable Fastest WordPress Hosting

    Pressable had been in the web hosting industry for over a decade and it is by far one of the fastest WordPress hosting companies in the world.

    It is important to note that while Pressable is very geared towards enterprise level and high traffic website, there are also smaller plans that is accommodating to small website owners (like me).

    Advantages using Pressable

    • Customer support that goes the extra mile in making a great experience.
    • Pressable offers enterprise stability, reliability, and performance no matter what plan you are on.
    • Personalized onboarding for everyone.
    • Automated migration which is hassle free.
    • Inclusive of Jetpack Premium.
    • Round the clock customer support.
    • Suitable for WooCommerce, high traffic website and agency/freelancers.

    Looking for enterprise hosting?

    Pressable is the top when it comes to infrastructure and support.

    5. SiteGround

    SiteGround Fastest WordPress Hosting

    When it comes to WordPress hosting and speed, SiteGround is one of the heavy hitters here. Unlike other hosting services, SiteGround works perfectly well with WordPress, Drupal, Magento and a wide range of other CMS.

    More importantly, SiteGround offers one of the cheapest managed WordPress hosting without sacrificing the server performance.

    Here’s what you need to know about SiteGround managed WordPress hosting.

    Advantages using SiteGround

    • Free professional website migration services at no cost.
    • SiteGround offers SSH and WP-CLI access, WordPress staging, Git integration, and PHP version control for an easier workflow.
    • All SiteGround managed WordPress plans include WordPress installation, automated migrations, automatic updates, advanced caching, and expert WordPress support.
    • High security and constant updates on servers.
    • Easily and high scalability features offers hassle free server upgrading.

    Don’t want to spend a bomb with hosting?

    SiteGround is an excellent choice with serer performance and price.

    6. Cloudways

    Cloudways Fastest WordPress Hosting

    There are a lot of reasons to love and hate Cloudways. For one, I’m still a paying customer for Cloudways and it had served me pretty well.

    Cloudways is like running a cheap VPS (virtual private server) all by your own — and if you are able to configure it well, it can serve you very well!

    Cloudways is highly affordable and it is still one of my favorite managed WordPress hosting that offers fast hosting speed.

    Advantages using Cloudways

    • Super affordable managed WordPress hosting.
    • Advanced cache system and inbuilt CDN ensure fastest WordPress hosting.
    • Support is available 24/7.
    • No coding and server management skill required.

    Finding for affordable and managed hosting?

    You don’t have to look far!

    7. A2 Hosting

    A2 Hosting Fastest WordPress Hosting

    A2 Hosting has long been in the hosting industry and for many, it is one of the best when it comes to searching for the fastest WordPress hosting company.

    Firstly, A2 Hosting is crazily affordable and their WordPress hosting plans are said to be super fast (yes, talking about the fastest WordPress hosting).

    I find A2 Hosting a great choice because it is highly affordable (huge, huge plus point) and the availability of Plesk Control Panel certainly is a powerful option.

    Advantages using A2 Hosting

    • Availability of Plesk control panel.
    • Unlimited transfer (goodbye to overhead fees)
    • A2 Site Accelerator ensures websites load fast (claim to be 20x faster than shared hosting).
    • Anytime money back guarantee.

    Plesk + WordPress + Pricing

    You can’t go wrong with A2 Hosting.

    9. Exabytes

    Exabytes Fastest WordPress Hosting

    Say hello to the top web hosting company in Malaysia, Exabytes.

    What makes Exabytes very unique is that the servers are located locally. This means that your website visitors (especially in Malaysia) is going to enjoy faster loading speed. 

    If you are looking to start an eCommerce business or hosting a business website in Malaysia, Exabytes is definitely your best choice here.

    Advantages using Exabytes

    • Pre-installed WordPress CMS.
    • Free domain included.
    • Built with SSD + NGNIX (https/2 supported).
    • Server level caching, daily backup and CDN included at no additional costs.
    • Comes with over 100+ free themes.
    • 1-click option for many services including,migration, backup, restoration, clone and sync.

    Looking for Malaysian web hosting?

    Exabytes is your calling!

    10. Digital Ocean

    Digital Ocean Fastest WordPress Hosting

    Last but not least, Digital Ocean is another affordable and fast WordPress hosting. Digital Ocean is not like any other managed WordPress hosting. 

    It offers virtual private server (VPS) services at super affordable pricing. While Digital Ocean or DO in short, is an awesome option to host your website, it doesn’t offer managed hosting. Instead, it only offers unmanaged hosting and therefore, you are required to have some level of server management skills to manage your hosting properly.

    Advantages using Digital Ocean

    • Super affordable hosting services that start at $5 per month.
    • Services are charged based on monthly or hourly (making it best for software developers).
    • Ability to manage multiple hosting and applications without sharing the entire space (one application or website per space).
    • Easy to segment and prioritize server management works.

    Unmanaged WordPress hosting?

    You can’t go wrong with Digital Ocean!

    Which is the fastest WordPress hosting in 2019?

    To be honest, the results were surprising for me as I was hoping to see some of the big names doing better. 

    From the result, I would say that Kinsta Hosting is the clear winner from my tests. With the homepage loads under 1 second (727 ms to be exact), you know that this is definitely a fast WordPress hosting.

    The reason behind the fast loading speed is because Kinsta Hosting is powered by Google Cloud Platform which often times offer more server firepower.

    Of course, don’ttake my word for it and try for yourself!

    Try Kinsta Hosting Today

    30 days money back guarantee, powered by Google Cloud Platform -definitely an excellent choice for WordPress website owners.

  • How to Give Your Content Marketing Strategy a Complete Makeover in 2019

    How to Give Your Content Marketing Strategy a Complete Makeover in 2019

    8 Steps Content Marketing Strategy For Complete Website Makeover (And Traffic Boost)

    Is your website suffering low traffic either from the recent Google Updates or simply because the content sucks?

    If you are reading this, you are probably know that your content sucks — and you want to take drastic steps to get the traffic you deserve.

    And even if you are at the top, you still need to have a solid content marketing strategy (which I have outlined below).

    Do you know that there are 8 steps to perform a complete content marketing strategy makeover?

    Now, don’t worry if you are scratching your head to find for answers. Scroll down below to learn more about planning and implementing a complete content marketing strategy makeover in 2019.

    Step 1: Define your content goals

    Define Content Goals

    This is by far the most important step to take — especially when you are planning to generate more traffic to your website.

    By defining your content goals, you will be able to construct, plan and take appropriate actions to generate more website traffic.

    Goals are what take us forward in life; they are the oxygen to our dreams. They are the first steps to every journey we take and are also our last. It‰’s very important that you realize the significance and importance of goal-setting and apply this knowledge in your life. Source: Code of Living

    Whatever your goals are, you got to have it layout!

    Do you know that you can also integrate content marketing with podcasting?

    Step 2: Define the target audience

    Define Target Audience

    When you publish a content, the content should be geared towards a specific audience and not the entire world.

    The reason behind this is simple — “No one size fits all.”

    Before even starting a content marketing makeover, ensure that you have the target audience in mind. This way, you can easily craft the right type of content (tone of voice, promotion method etc.) that resonates with your audience.

    When you resonates with your audience, you are going to be able to convert them into paying customers.

    Step 3: Audit the existing content

    Update Content With Fresh Information

    This step is time consuming but is definitely a step needed to be taken.

    Your content may not be relevant with the new content goals that you want to achieve in 2019. Therefore, steps needed to taken to ensure that these content resonates with your overall content marketing makeover strategy.

    Need help? Here’s a guide quite from Content Marketing Institute on performing content audit in just a few hours. Click for guide.

    Step 4: Map key content to a website content map

    How To Do Content Mapping

    Head over to Google Analytics (if Google Analytics is complicated, here’s a good alternative) and Google Search Console to discover the best performing content on your blog. Select the top 10 or 20 and ensure that there are interlinking between one another.

    These content are doing very well for various reasons — solving the customer’s pain point or providing answers to questions.

    There are many content mapping tools and software that you can use, including:

    Step 5: Create content assets

    What Is Cornerstone Content

    Content assets are cornerstone contents — Content that represent a huge part of your blog. These content are powerful content that are often long form and provides ton of value to the readers.

    A blog may have 100 or 1,000 blog posts but often time, only a handful will be generating the most traffic. Ensure that these blog posts are constantly updated with the latest content and having more internal links in these blog posts than outgoing ones.

    Bonus tip: Learn more about content asset here.

    Step 6: Upload and optimize current content assets

    How To Optimize Content

    If you have created several cornerstone contents like I do, then it is high time to keep these content updated.

    On average, I recommend revisiting the content once every quarter to update the content with new information. Always remember that Google loves content that are constantly updated.

    Step 7: Promoting your content

    How To Promote Content In Content Marketing Makeover

    Content marketing strategy doesn’t just involve content creation. Promoting your content is an extremely important step that most marketers overlook.

    How to do you promote your content to the mass public? Here are some sure-fire ways to get your content in front of the mass population.

    • Paid marketing (social media ads, Google ads)
    • Search engine optimization (SEO)
    • Non paid marketing (shares from other bloggers or industry leaders)
    • Rewrite the content and publish on various content sites (Medium, Quora etc.)
    • Outreach to other bloggers and writers within your industry

    Step 8: Analyze and further improve

    Analyze and Improve Content

    The last step includes analyzing and further improving the content marketing strategy makeover (over time). 

    The honeypot is often discovered only after various tests and implementation are done. In other words, analyzing and improving once or twice wouldn’t be that effective in a long run.

    Keep a planner and schedule constant content marketing makeovers to ensure that your blog is getting the traffic you deserve — as well as doubling the chance to convert first time website visitors into paying customers or subscribers.

    Analyzing goes a long way, including analyzing your content on your landing page. Here’s a list of tools to help you customize your landing page.

    Summary: Start giving content marketing a makeover right now!

    When was the last time you gave your blog and website a content makeover? If it has been awhile, get started right now as this is an important step to grow your traffic!

    Tell me what you think in the comments below.

  • BlueHost Shared Hosting vs WordPress Hosting (WP Pro) Review

    BlueHost Shared Hosting vs WordPress Hosting (WP Pro) Review

    Which Is The Right BlueHost Web Hosting Plan For Me?

    BlueHost is a well known web hosting company that hosts millions of websites every single day. Just like other web hosting companies, BlueHost offers a wide range of web hosting plans.

    Here’s a list of BlueHost web hosting plans that it offers:

    • Shared hosting
    • VPS hosting
    • Dedicated hosting
    • WordPress hosting
    • WP Pro
    • eCommerce hosting

    As you can see, there really many BlueHost hosting plans that you can choose from — and it can be really complicated (trust me when I say this).

    Two of the most common web hosting plans is Shared Hosting and WordPress Hosting.

    Let’s dive into both of these, and I sincerely hope that this information is going to help you make the ultimate decision.

    What is BlueHost shared hosting plans?

    BlueHost Shared Web Hosting

    BlueHost shared hosting is the most common and popular web hosting service. It is an excellent choice for bloggers, website owners and business owners who don’t require much from a web hosting company.

    In other words, the BlueHost shared hosting plan is best for small websites (or for those who is looking for cheap web hosting services.

    With web hosting pricing that starts at $2.97 per month, BlueHost shared hosting plan is definitely a deal not to be missed!

    What is included in the BlueHost shared hosting plan?

    BlueHost Shared Hosting Malaysia

    As you can see, there are four common shared hosting plan with different features and prices. 

    Basic is the cheapest shared hosting plan at only $2.97 per month with limited features. There are also Plus, Choice Plus and Pro which all serves different features and come with unique pricing structures.

    Is BlueHost shared hosting right for me?

    BlueHost shared hosting is a great option for those who don’t require a lot server resources and have a low traffic website. This package is best for new websites as it is highly affordable with low monthly commitment.

    What is BlueHost WordPress hosting?

    BlueHost Managed WordPress Hosting

    If you are looking for managed WordPress hosting, BlueHost WordPres hosting is definitely one option to consider. Currently, BlueHost managed WordPress hosting is known as BlueHost WP Pro (you can read more about it here).

    The pricing for WordPress Pro by BlueHost starts at $19.95 per month and there are several other options that you can choose from. Here’s the pricing structure for WP Pro.

    What is included in the BlueHost WP Pro plan?

    BlueHost Managed WordPress Hostign Features

    As you can see above, WP Pro web hosting plans are hevaily based on fully-managed WordPress hosting. Both the Build and Grow plans are excellent for non eCommerce websites and Scale plan is best fitted for eCommerce on WordPress.

    Is BlueHost WP Pro right for me?

    WP Pro isn’t for everyone. It is best suited for website owners who want a peace of mind, top notch security and excellent server performance 24 hours a day. If you are having more than 300 traffic in a day, you should definitely consider BlueHost WP Pro.

    BlueHost Shared Hosting vs BlueHost Managed WordPress Hosting: Which is better?

    As a summary, BlueHost shared hosting a good option for beginners and website owners with limited traffic. This web hosting service is very affordable and doesn’t cost much.

    BlueHost managed hosting or WP Pro is a great alternative for website owners who want superior performance, bulletproof security and excellent customer support.

  • 5 Best WordPress Theme You Should Be Using In 2019

    5 Best WordPress Theme You Should Be Using In 2019

    The Only 5 Best WordPress Themes You Should Be Using In 2019

    Are you searching for the best WordPress themes to use in 2019?

    If the answer is “anything related to yes,” you came to the right spot!

    In this article, you will discover the best WordPress themes you should be using in 2019.

    When it comes to WP themes, there are actually quite a lot of themes that you can choose from — both free and paid WordPress themes inclusive.

    The biggest challenge for many bloggers and website owners is to determine the best theme that fits their needs.

    But wait!

    What are the requirements to choose the best WordPress themes?

    While the niche and expectations varies a lot, here are the common requirements when choosing a WordPress theme:

    • Easy to use or low learning curve
    • Drag and drop builder (if coding skills are required)
    • Clean codes
    • Level of support
    • Reputation of the theme developer
    • Theme pricing
    • Constant updates
    • SEO features
    • Fast loading speed

    The WordPress theme is more important than ever

    A WordPress theme is more than just a theme. It displays professionalism and above all, a brand design that resonates with your website visitors.

    Do you know that a website design contributes to website conversion, bounce rate and stay duration?

    Which are the top 5 best WordPress themes for 2019?

    • Divi by Elegant Themes
    • Thrive Architect by Thrive Themes
    • OptimizePress
    • StudioPress
    • Elementor

    Top Rated WordPress Theme 2019: Divi Theme

    Divi Theme Review 2019

    What is Divi theme?

    Divi is a stylist, drag and drop website builder that used not only by beginners but website developers as well.

    Divi Theme allows you to create your own customized WordPress website design without coding knowledge — through its powerful drag and drop website builder.

    Divi Theme Demos

    Want to know how Divi theme looks like? Scroll below to learn more!

    Part 1: Five Divi theme templates

    Divi Theme Demo

    Part 2: Another five more Divi theme templates

    Divi Theme Templates

    Impressed?

    Divi themes are not made for bloggers — it has a wide range of themes (over 100 of them) that are suitable for a wide range of business.

    Regardless you are a blogger, entrepreneur, website owner or business owner, there’s definitely a Divi theme that is right for you!

    Advantages using Divi theme

    • Inbuilt drag and drop builder (visual editor)
    • No coding skills required
    • 100+ pre-made layouts and templates
    • 1-click installation
    • 24/7 professional support
    • One simple ad affordable pricing

    Disadvantages using Divi theme

    • Users may experience some lag or server performance (if using poorly configured web servers)

    Conclusion and Divi theme demo

    Divi is really an awesome choice if you are searching for the best WordPress theme in 2019.

    With it premade demos and templates (along with customer support), this is definitely the top best theme that I personally recommend.

    Popular WordPress Themes for Bloggers: Thrive Architect by Thrive Themes

    Thrive Architect Best WordPress Themes 2019

    What is Thrive Architect?

    Thrive Architect is a drag and drop builder plugin by Thrive Themes. This plugin helps you to create powerful website designs without coding skills.

    Used by over 10,000 website owners, Thrive Architect is one the best heavy-hitters when it comes to the best WordPress themes in 2019.

    Thrive Architect Demos

    Thrive Architect allows you to copy and launch pre-made templates and demos in just a few clicks.

    At this point of time, there are over 274 ready-made website templates (consists of landing page, homepages, blog posts etc.) that you can choose from.

    Thrive Architect demo templates

    Thrive Architect Demo Templates

    Editor’s Note

    Thrive Architect is my personal favorite when it comes to building customized WordPress themes and the reason is obvious. 

    The Thrive Architect drag and drop builder is extremely intuitive which is able to operates even with the smallest / lowest server resources.

    Advantages using Thrive Architct

    • Instant drag and drop visual builder
    • No design or coding skills required
    • Pre-build conversion elements
    • 274+ templates and demos to choose from
    • Instant preview on different screen size
    • Toggle visibility of elements and the entire content block
    • Mobile responsive theme
    • 24/7 support via forum and email
    • Affordable pricing

    Disadvantages using Thrive Architect

    • Can’t think of any (as of now)

    Conclusion

    Undeniably, Thrive Architect excels perfectly well in the WordPress theme marketplace.

    Bloggers and website owners had long used Thrive Architect to build their website — and this is one of those WordPress themes that I will recommend.

    Newly Updated Theme: OptimizePress

    OptimizePress WordPress Themes 2019

    What is OptimizePress?

    OptimizePress was once the most sought after WordPress website builder. To be exact, it was around seven years ago. Soon after, OptimizePress was not being updated and lacks drag and drop builder which, at that time, was extremely popular.

    But that was history.

    With the latest and updated OptimizePress version, this is definitely one of the most popular option in the market today.

    OptimizePress Demos

    Just like most of the WordPress themes in this post, there are many ready made website templates that you can use with OptimizePress.

    OptimizePress demo templates

    OptimizePress Premium WordPress Themes 2019

    If you are looking for the top WordPress themes in 2019, OptimizePress is definitely a great choice to go with.

    Did you know?

    OptimizePress comes with theme and plugin separately. So, you can easily install OptimizePress plugin to your existing WordPress themes — without having to perform all the messy and time-consuming uninstallation. OptimizePress also includes an inbuilt membership site which is a plus point for many.

    Advantages using OptimizePress

    • Visual editor allows you to create landing page, webinar pages, sales pages, blog post and homepages
    • Drag and drop website builder plugin
    • Intuitive visual editor
    • No coding skill required
    • Easy to use for beginnners
    • Marketplace to purchase additional/customized themes

    Disadvantages using OptimizePress

    • Visual builder isn’t extremely intuitive
    • The entire theme and plugin requires a lot of server space
    • Some users are experience slower website load speed when using OptimizePress

    Conclusion

    OptimizePress is “okay” and if you are not require much from a drag and drop builder, this is a great option to go with.

    More importantly, it is very affordable which is a plus point for many newbie bloggers and website owners.

    Simple And Yet Stylist: StudioPress by WP Engine

    StudioPress by WP Engine

    StudioPress was the first premium WordPress theme that I used. 

    While I don’t actively use StudioPress anymore, I still recommend StudioPress to my clients — especially for those who don’t require much website features and simple website layout.

    StudioPress was recently acquired by WP Engine (just thought that you may not know about it).

    StudioPress Demos

    There are many StudioPress themes that you can choose from … which you can purchase as a standalone or through a one-time payment to have unlimited access and usage.

    StudioPress demo templates

    StudioPress Genesis Framework Child Themes 2019

    Advantages using StudioPress themes

    • Unlimited usage with one time payment
    • Professional support
    • Beautiful and many minimalist website designs

    Disadvantages using StudioPress themes

    • No drag and drop builder
    • Coding skills required

    Conclusion

    StudioPress is a fine WordPress theme to use if you are looking for a theme that is ready to use out-of-the-box.

    While configuring StudioPress child themes requires coding skill, this is still one of the most popular WordPress themes in 2019 (especially for website developers) as the codes are very clean and SEO ready.

    When Free Meets Premium: Elementor

    Elementor Best WordPress Themes 2019

    Elementor is the next generation WordPress website theme.

    They call themselves as the world’s best builder — simple, powerful & flexible WordPress theme builder.

    And they nailed it. BIG TIME.

    Elementor combines powerful drag and drop technology into a tool that is free to use (yes, Elementor plugin is free to use) with Elementor Pro version that provides additional features (chargeable).

    Advantages using Elementor

    • Free to use (with premium plans available)
    • Powerful drag and drop visual builder
    • Feature rich
    • Excellent customer support
    • Supportive community

    Disadvantages using Elementor

    • Limited features in the free version
    • Limited support in the free version

    Conclusion

    Despite the several weaknesses in Elementor, it is still one of the best WordPress theme in 2019.

    With an inbuilt drag and drop builder with powerful add-ons, this is definitely one of the top themes you should be using to create beautiful website designs this year.

    Which is the best WordPress themes in 2019?

    For me, the above five are the best themes for any WordPress websites.

    If I would choose, I would recommend Thrive Architect and Divi anytime of the day — thanks to the intuitive drag and drop builder, easy to use features and super affordable pricing.

    How about you? Leave a comment below and tell me what you think!

  • What Is BlueHost Spark (WordPress Hosting Support) And Why It Matters?

    What Is BlueHost Spark (WordPress Hosting Support) And Why It Matters?

    Setting Up A WordPress Used To Be Tough Is Now Much Easier

    Launching a blog from scratch can be an extremely daunting task.

    From getting a domain name, to finding the best hosting service and from preparing blog post ideas to crafting blog-worthy posts.

    There’s just so much work — and so less time.

    Have you ever wished to have an affordable (or free) blog expert helping you with all these?

    I bet you do.

    And lucky for you, there’s a new kid on the blog that helps you achieve just that!

    WordPress Expert Help by Spark

    BlueHost Spark Review

    Spark is a cool and new feature by BlueHost (yes, that popular web hosting company).

    This service is launched by BlueHost to help you jump start the entire WordPress installation process.

    What is Spark by BlueHost?

    It is the absolutely answer to “excellent customer service and support by BlueHost.”

    Let’s face it.

    If you search for BlueHost review, you will see dozens of negative reviews on BlueHost.

    Now, take a deeper look into the reviews and comments. You will notice that the company gets many negative feedbacks years ago — and not now.

    BlueHost Spark.

    For all Bluehost customers looking to leverage the power and flexibility of WordPress but aren’t sure how to get started, Bluehost provides a free service that assists with getting started on the right track.

    Blue Spark is designed to help each customer with getting familiar with both the Bluehost and WordPress dashboard, as well as help customers select the correct theme and plugins for their website needs. ​

    You will work with trained WordPress experts to learn the basic elements of WordPress so that you can start building your ideal website quickly and correctly.

    Now, BlueHost is all about excellent customer support and server performance.

    Real BlueHost Reviews 2019

    The truth is, BlueHost is much better now compared to years before.

    And with the constant competition in the web hosting world, BlueHost offers Spark in conjunction with improved customer support and services.

    What are the features included in BlueHost Spark?

    Get started with WordPress

    Skip the learning curve and get an efficient start to your WordPress experience, including dashboard walkthroughs, account setup, and more; a full-featured WordPress orientation.

    Selecting an appropriate theme

    Leverage the guidance of WordPress experts to ensure your site utilizes the best possible WordPress theme relative not only to your website’s purpose, but also your own style.

    Installing the correct plugins

    Our WordPress setup service even helps you avoid the hassle and uncertainty of plugin selection and installation. We’ll make sure you’ve got the best plugins for your website.

    How to get BlueHost Spark?

    After creating a Bluehost account (click here to get started), simply contact BlueHost 24/7 support team via (844) 741-1192 and ask to begin your Blue Spark call. 

    All Bluehost support representatives have been trained on the best practices for getting started with WordPress, and will be able to assist with navigating the Bluehost and WordPress dashboards, as well as assist you with selecting the right themes and plugins for your WordPress website.

    Conclusion

    BlueHost Spark is a good service and effort created by BlueHost in order to generate better support for its customers.

    As WordPress is one of the most popular platforms in the blogging world, there is no denial that this customer support or service will be a great addon especially for beginners.

    Get started with BlueHost now.

  • 5 (Seriously Easy) Steps To Start A Lifestyle Blog To Success

    5 (Seriously Easy) Steps To Start A Lifestyle Blog To Success

    5 Steps To Start A Lifestyle Blog That Kick Ass And Makes Money

    Deciding to start a lifestyle blog is easy. Setting up the actual blog is when the real challenge begins.

    As there are many moving parts, it is important for you to get the right information and guide to launch a lifestyle blog to success.

    The process can be overwhelming for many and you may want to pace yourself.

    This guide is created with the single purpose on helping you to create and launch a lifestyle blog (minus the hassle and uncertainty).

    Step One: Choose Your Lifestyle Blog Niche

    Lifesyle Blog Niche

    A successful blog is uncluttered. Regardless of how many categories you want to explore, you still must have a specific niche.

    Taking this first step is important is defining your blog niche

    This will help you to identify your target audience, laser targeting the categories you should have and connecting with other like-minded lifestyle bloggers.

    Starting a lifestyle blog to success is more than a single man’s job. You need connections (a.k.a. other lifestyle bloggers) to help you get more eyeballs.

    How do I find the right lifestyle niche?

    Blogging is all about constantly crafting the content that you are passionate about.

    Since you are planning to start a lifestyle blog, you might want to consider picking up positive vibes as your source of motivation.

    If you’re able to share tips and help people out based on your skill or talent, readers will flock to your blog in no time.

    Step Two: Choose A Platform

    Blog Platform for Lifestyle Blogs

    There are several blogging platforms available for you to use (for free) or buy.

    A quick search online will give you a rundown of the best ones out there. Arguably, the most popular and most used is WordPress.

    Often, it’s the go-to platform for bloggers, especially for the newbies.

    Introducing, WordPress.

    WordPress is the most common choice for several reasons.

    • It is an excellent content management system (CMS) for beginners
    • There’s a wide range of free themes to choose from
    • There are also many tools and plugins to help you design your own website (without coding skills)

    Now, should you purchase your own domain and platform or use the free ones available on the market?

    The answer is “It is wiser to purchase your own.”

    Here are the top four reasons why you should avoid the ‘free’ ones.

    • Most free platforms will require you to post their own ads on your blog.
    • Most will limit your ability to put your own ads on your blog. Some will make it impossible for you to generate income.
    • Free platforms usually mean limited to non-existent tech support.
    • No-charge blog platforms mean generic URL.
    • Lack of security features.

    The biggest issues with free blogging platform?

    Ownership of the site is not yours when you build a lifestyle blog on other free blog platforms.

    Even if you’re still undecided if you want your blog to eventually turn into something profitable, paying five bucks (more or less) a month will secure all your hard work.

    Step Three: Choose A Domain Name

    Choose Lifestyle Blog Domain Name

    www.mylifestyleblog.com is a lot better than www.mylifestyleblog.domainhost.com, don’t you think? As an online reader, do you trust a website more if the URL that looks and reads like an actual site?

    I bet so, right?!

    That’s the power of branding. Deciding the right domain name for your lifestyle blog is always the most crucial step when launching your lifestyle blog.

    The domain name you choose will be the address of your website. Consider and remember the weight of this when you choose the name of your lifestyle blog. Here are tips on how to pick the right domain name for your website.

    • Shorter domain name = Win (easier to remember)
    • Make it easy to say and spell (duh!)
    • Let the name mirror the core message of your lifestyle blog
    • A unique domain name is always the best!
    • Allow flexibility to make it “brandable” (avoid too specific domain name for easier cross promotion in the future)

    You can get cheap domain names at NameCheap that often costs under $10 per year (here’s the link).

    Step Four: Choose A WordPress Theme

    WordPress Themes for Lifestyle Bloggers

    A WordPress theme is like the cloth you wear.

    If you are looking for free WordPress themes, you are in luck!

    WordPress is home to thousands of themes that you can choose from, some which are free and some which are paid.

    When choosing a WordPress theme, here are three important factors you should consider.

    • Deciding on what to display on the homepage (a specific/static landing page or displaying the most recent blog post)
    • Is your WordPress theme of choice advertiser-friendly?
    • How much support do you get if you need help with coding?

    If you have the money to spare, purchasing a premium theme for your blog is a better option than using a free theme. Often, premium themes offer more fluid functionality. They are also more SEO-friendly.

    Here’s an example of a premium WordPress theme (click here for the product details).

    If you have additional funds, you can hire a web designer to make your theme as unique as you like it to be.

    Step Five: Write Blog-Worthy Posts

    Create Lifestyle Blogs That Worth Reading

    Your blog content need to be really good — if you are serious in getting your lifestyle blog the traffic you desire.

    The name of your blog and the design of your website – these are just trimmings.

    Ultimately, your content matters the most and here are some guidelines to write blog-worthy posts.

    • Informative content
    • Fun to read
    • Shareable
    • Easy to take action
    • Compelling by being different
    • Write in the natural tone
    • Be in the shoes of your website visitors

    Conclusion: Launching A Lifestyle Blog (That Rocks)

    Starting a lifestyle blog is fun, glamorous and highly profitable if you can exert effort into it.

    However, it takes time and a lot of effort to get the blog rolling (in getting traffic and revenue).

    Here’s the summary if you want to launch a successful lifestyle blog from scratch.

    Want to start a lifestyle blog or already have one? Leave a comment below and let’s discuss!