Overview
This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for creating a professional website using Wix, covering everything from account setup to publishing your site with a custom domain.
Getting Started with Wix
- Sign up for a Wix account by entering your email and creating a password.
- Skip the Wix AI chat setup to retain full manual control over the website dashboard.
- Specify your website type (e.g., Italian restaurant), brand name, and a brief description.
- Select website goals such as displaying menu items and managing table reservations.
- Enable the site to function well on mobile devices.
Navigating the Wix Dashboard
- The dashboard provides access to site metrics, order and menu management, reservations, contacts, and marketing features.
- Initial focus should be on setting up your website design before exploring advanced dashboard options.
Designing Your Website
- Choose between Wix AI website generation or selecting a professional template; templates are recommended for better results.
- Browse or search for templates that match your business type and preview them before selecting.
- Once chosen, templates cannot be changed, so select carefully.
Customizing Pages and Sections
- Customize each page section and element (text, images, buttons) by selecting and editing directly.
- Use grid lines for alignment and undo changes when needed.
- Replace dummy content with your text, or use Wix's AI to generate text.
- Add, move, or delete elements and sections as needed for your layout.
Managing Pages and Navigation
- Use the "Pages and Menu" tool to add, delete, or rename pages.
- Adjust navigation links and anchors for smooth user experience.
- Rearrange menu order and manage page-specific contents.
Editing Forms and Maps
- Edit contact forms by adding fields and updating settings via the Wix dashboard.
- Update map locations or add new map elements to display your business address.
Customizing the Header and Site Design
- Modify the header by adding/removing columns, logos, and social icons.
- Set up navigation layout and ensure proper alignment.
- Adjust color themes and fonts from the site design panel.
- Optimize the mobile version by adjusting or hiding overlapping elements.
Using Apps and Advanced Features
- Add functionalities (e.g., reservations, bookings, galleries) through Wix or third-party apps.
- Some features require a paid Wix plan to be fully enabled.
Finalizing and Publishing the Website
- Preview the website across desktop and mobile views for quality assurance.
- Publish the website; free sites use a wixsite.com domain and display Wix ads.
- Upgrade to a paid plan to connect a custom domain and remove Wix branding and ads.
- Set up private domain registration for privacy.
Recommendations / Advice
- Spend time choosing the most appropriate template before customization, as it cannot be changed later.
- Always check and optimize the website's appearance on both desktop and mobile views.
- Opt for private registration when purchasing a domain to protect your personal information.