Let’s be real – choosing a domain name can feel like trying to pick out an outfit for your teenager who thinks you’re not cool. You want something clever, memorable, and not totally ridiculous. As a web developer, my clients often ask, “How do I get a domain name for my business?” I’ve been down this road more times than I can count, and I’m here to make your domain hunt way less painful.
Why Your Business Domain Name Actually Matters
Think of your domain name like the sign on your digital cottage. It’s not just an address – it’s your first impression, your brand’s handshake with the internet. A good domain can:
- Help people find you easily
- Make you look like you know what you’re doing
- Give you serious street cred in the online world
- You might want to use it as your email address (I could show you how, just saying)
The “Oh Crud” Checklist for Domain Names
Before you get too attached to that brilliant name you just thought of, run it through these filters:
- Keep It Simple, Sweetie
- No weird spellings
- Avoid inside jokes that only your cat understands
- Make it something your mother could type without having a tech meltdown
- Think of how hard it would be to explain to someone over a bad connection in the car.
- Think Beyond Today
- Will this name still make sense in 5 years?
- Can it grow with your business or project?
- Avoid super-specific names that paint you into a corner (avoid prices and dates!)
- Check the Availability (Reality Check)
- Use domain search tools (Namecheap is your friend!)
- Be prepared for your first 17 choices to be taken
- Have backup options – lots of them
Pro Tip: Extensions Aren’t Just For File Types
.com is classic and I recommend it as a rule, but don’t panic if it’s taken. Consider:
- I use dolollies.band for my band website 🙂
- Country-specific extensions if that makes sense for you
- Those quirky new extensions like .io (startup cool factor)
The Budget-Friendly Domain Hunt
- Use free domain name generators (but don’t get hypnotized by them)
- Check social media handles at the same time
- Set a budget – domain squatting is real, and it can get expensive fast
Warning: Trademark Traps Ahead
Before you fall in love with a name, do a quick trademark search. Nothing says “rookie mistake” like getting a cease-and-desist letter because your awesome domain name belongs to someone else.
Security: Because Paranoia Keeps Your Domain Safe
- Turn on domain privacy (bye-bye, spam!)
- Use two-factor authentication
- Set reminders for renewals
- Don’t share your registrar login like it’s a meme
- Beware of domain renewal scams. Only renew from the company you actually bought it from.
The Final Cottage Coder Pro Move
Pick a domain that tells a story. Something that makes people go, “Oh, that’s clever!” but doesn’t require a PhD to understand.
Remember: Your domain is your digital welcome mat. Make it inviting, make it you, and for the love of coding, make it memorable.
Bonus Challenge: Can you create a domain name that would make both a developer and your mom smile? That’s the sweet spot, my friend.
Have a question? Ask it at my next tech tea party!
I hope this helps you find a domain name for your business.
Happy domain hunting!