What would you do with an extra $500 a month? Close your eyes for a moment and picture it. Maybe it’s putting a deposit down for a dream vacation you’ve been imagining for years. Maybe it’s treating yourself to the pair of boots you’ve had your eye on but couldn’t justify buying. Perhaps it’s simply having a little extra breathing room—paying off a bill that’s been weighing on your mind or surprising your family with an extra-special dinner out.
Now, imagine if it didn’t stop at $500. Imagine what your life could look like with $1,000, $5,000, or even $10,000 more a month—all while staying home with your kids, working on your schedule, and sharing things you already love.
For moms who are constantly balancing the beautiful, messy juggle of life—caring for kids, running a household, and nurturing personal dreams—blogging offers a unique and fulfilling way to create something entirely your own. And if you’re thinking about blogging, WordPress is hands down the best platform to bring that dream to life.
Whether you’re looking for a little extra side hustle money or envisioning a full-fledged career shift, WordPress makes it all possible.
And here’s a real-life example: Michelle Schroeder-Gardner started her blog, Making Sense of Cents, to share her personal finance journey. Today, she’s making a 6 figure income, all from a blog that began as a simple idea.
You don’t need to have all the answers right now. You don’t need to be a tech genius or a professional writer. You just need to start. And together, we’ll take it step by step, just like Michelle did.
Ready to make it happen? Let’s go, mama!
Why WordPress Works For Moms?
Here’s why WordPress shines for moms like you:
1. Flexibility
Let’s be real—our days don’t follow a predictable 9-to-5 rhythm. With WordPress, you don’t have to either. Whether you’re working:
- During nap time,
- While your kids are at school,
- Or after bedtime when the house is finally quiet,
WordPress is always ready when you are. You can write a blog post while sipping your morning coffee or update your site after tucking the kids in. It fits seamlessly into your life, no matter how busy or unpredictable your day gets.
And here’s the best part: you don’t need to dedicate hours and hours every day. Even with just a few consistent hours a week, you can start building something meaningful that grows over time.
2. Scalability
Maybe right now, you’re thinking about starting something small—a little blog to share your thoughts, experiences, or hobbies. That’s the beauty of WordPress: it grows with you.
Start with a simple blog to share your ideas, whether it’s parenting tips, recipes, or budgeting hacks. As your confidence and skills grow, so can your blog. You can add more features, like an online shop, affiliate links, or even courses. Eventually, if you want, you can turn it into a full-scale business—earning enough to make a real difference for your family.
Getting Started
I know starting a blog can feel overwhelming—like, where do you even begin? But here’s the thing: it’s way simpler than you think, and I’m going to walk you through it step by step. Think of this as setting up your very own cozy little corner of the internet, a space that’s all yours. Ready? Let’s do this together!
1. Choose A Domain Name
Let’s start with your domain name—your blog’s address. It’s the first thing people will see when they visit your site, so make it count. Expect to pay around $10–$15 per year for a domain name.
- Make it meaningful and memorable: What’s your blog about? Parenting hacks? Budgeting tips? Pick a name that reflects your personality or niche, like MamaOnAMission.com.
- Keep it simple: Short, easy-to-type names stick in people’s minds. Skip the complicated spellings or long phrases.
Let’s pause here. Write down a few ideas that you feel. Don’t rush this step – it’s like picking the perfect name for your baby (okay, maybe not that intense, but close!).
Pro Tip: Before getting too attached to a domain name, make sure it’s available! You can easily check if your desired domain name is taken by using websites like Namecheap or GoDaddy. Just type in your preferred domain, and these tools will instantly tell you if it’s available for purchase or if it’s already registered. This step saves you time and helps you avoid disappointment later on!
2. Select Hosting
Now that you’ve picked your name, your blog needs a home. Hosting might sound techy, but it’s just the space where your blog lives online.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Hosting services like Bluehost or SiteGround are reliable and affordable. They even offer 24/7 support, so you’re never stuck. It typically cost around $3–$5 per month for the basic plan.
- Free Hosting Option: Testing the waters? WordPress.com offers free hosting.
My advice? If you’re serious about blogging, go with a budget-friendly option. It’s worth it for the flexibility you’ll have as your blog grows.
3. Install WordPress
Here’s where things start to come to life.
- Log in to your hosting account.
- Look for the “Install WordPress” button (you can’t miss it!).
- Click it, follow the prompts, and BAM—your blog is live!
The WordPress software itself is free. However, you’ll need a hosting provider to install it on, which we’ve covered above.
If you get stuck, don’t stress. Most hosting providers have step-by-step guides or live chat to help you out.
4. Add Essential Plugins
Now, let’s add the finishing touches to your blog—the “apps” that make it work even better. Plugins help you optimize, track, and even monetize your blog. Here are a few must-haves to start:
- Yoast SEO: This one helps your blog show up on Google (hello, readers!).
- WooCommerce: If you’re thinking about selling products, this plugin makes it a breeze.
- MonsterInsights: Want to know who’s visiting your blog and what they’re loving? This plugin gives you all the juicy stats.
While there are many free themes and plugins available, you might want to upgrade to a premium theme for around $30–$60 for a one-time payment. Plugins like Yoast SEO and WooCommerce (for online stores) are free, with optional paid versions offering more features.
With about $50 to $100 upfront, you can get everything you need to set up your blog, depending on your preferences. If you’re thinking about scaling your blog later, there are additional costs as you add features or run ads. But overall, WordPress makes it possible to start small and grow at your own pace!
Heads up! Don’t go overboard with plugins at first. Start with the basics and add more as you grow.
Why Do These Steps Matter?
These simple steps lay the foundation for your blog’s success.
- Your domain name is your address, the name that everyone remembers.
- Hosting is your foundation—it keeps everything running smoothly.
- WordPress installation is like moving in and decorating your space, making it yours.
- And plugins? They’re the little upgrades that make your blog shine, from attracting readers to tracking your progress.
What Should I Do When Tech Issues Drive Me Crazy?
- Try a quick Google or YouTube search – there’s a tutorial for everything.
- Check out Reddit’s blogging forums for helpful advice.
- Still stuck? Reach out to your hosting provider; they’re there to support you.
Your Blog Topic In 4 Steps
Use this square grid method to visualize your topic:
| Your Interests | Is It Helpful To Others? | Are You Skilled In This? | Easy To Write About? |
|---|---|---|---|
Parenting Tips | Yes | Yes | No |
Budgeting Hacks | Yes | No | Yes |
Healthy Living | Yes | Maybe | Maybe |
DIY Crafts | Maybe | Maybe | Yes |
When you find a topic that checks all the boxes, that’s your blog goldmine. It’s something you love, can write about with ease, and will genuinely help your readers.
Ready to start brainstorming? Grab a notebook and fill out your grid.
Blogging Essentials 101
Here’s what you need to know:
| Steps | What To Do | Tool/Resource |
|---|---|---|
Optimize Your Blog | 1. Install an SEO plugin | 1. Yoast SEO |
Plan Your Content | 1. Organize ideas and deadlines | 1. Trello |
Design & Create | 1. Create stunning blog graphics | 1. Canva |
Schedule & Automate | 1. Schedule social media posts in advance | 1. Buffer or Tailwind |
Monitor Progress | 1. Track blog traffic and audience behavior | 1. Google Analytics |
Wondering Where To Start Finding Your Audience?
Start by going where moms already spend their time online.
- On Instagram, share those real-life moments that make motherhood relatable—funny stories, quick tips, or raw, behind-the-scenes snippets. Use Stories to chat in real time, like you’re catching up with friends!
- On Pinterest, create eye-catching pins for your posts. Pinterest is a search engine in disguise, so your content can keep driving traffic for months to come.
Feel like you’re talking to yourself? Don’t worry, every blogger has been there. Treat your blog like a conversation, not a broadcast.
- Reply to each comment warmly, like you’re chatting with a friend.
- Sprinkle in questions at the end of your posts to invite readers to share their own tips or stories, e.g., “What’s your go-to hack for staying organized?”
- Show gratitude when readers share your posts—it’s a simple way to build loyalty and show you care.
Is an email list worth it? Absolutely. Think of it as your direct line to your most loyal readers—no algorithms, no distractions.
- Use a tool like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to set up and manage your list.
- Entice sign-ups with a small freebie, like a “Busy Mom Meal Plan” or “DIY Crafts Cheat Sheet.”
- Keep emails personal and exclusive, sharing things that go beyond your blog posts—insider tips, special updates, or a sneak peek at upcoming content.
Pro Tip: Make it effortless for readers to subscribe, follow, or engage. Add social media icons to your blog, create clear calls-to-action in your posts, and promote your newsletter wherever possible.
And hey, while we’re talking about newsletters—don’t forget to join ours! We offer tons of resources and plans specially crafted for new bloggers.
(Unsubscribe At Any Time)
14 Mom-Friendly Ways To Monetize Your WordPress Blog
Here’s a breakdown of 14 tried-and-true ways to earn money, tailored to fit the busy mom life.
1. Amazon Affiliate Store
If you love recommending products (who doesn’t?), this one’s for you. Sign up for Amazon’s Affiliate Program, share baby gear, kitchen gadgets, or self-care essentials that you already love, and earn a commission every time someone buys through your links.
2. Sell Your Own Products
Whether you’re into creating handmade crafts, designing digital planners, or even sharing kid-friendly recipes, you can make money from WordPress. Tools like WooCommerce make it easy to set up your very own online store.
3. Display Ads
One of the easiest ways to make money from WordPress is by starting a blog and monetizing it with ads.You can add ads through Google AdSense or Mediavine. The more visitors, the more passive income you’ll earn—simple, right?
4. Offer eCourses
Got a skill you’re passionate about? Share it! Whether it’s meal prepping, budgeting tips, or parenting hacks, create an online course on platforms like Teachable and watch it while you sleep.
5. Write and Sell eBooks
If you’ve got knowledge to share or a story to tell, why not turn it into an ebook? Practical guides or inspirational reads are always a hit with moms—and creating an ebook is easier than you think.
6. Grow An Email List
Offer a freebie (like a checklist or mini-guide) to encourage people to subscribe to your email list. Then, you can share exclusive content, promote affiliate links, or even sell your own products.
7. Charge For Guest Posts
As your blog grows, other writers might want to post on your site. You can charge them a fee for guest posts or collaborations, and it’s a great way to bring in extra income.
8. Affiliate Marketing
Promote products you genuinely love and use affiliate links to earn a commission when someone makes a purchase. It’s an easy way to add income without having to create your own products.
9. Sponsored Posts
Once your audience grows, brands will want to partner with you. Write sponsored posts about products you actually like and get paid to recommend them to your readers.
10. Start A Podcast
How to make money using WordPress? Start a podcast or video series and earn money through sponsorships. This way you can repurpose your blog content, and even offer exclusive content to your listeners. It’s a great way to expand your brand!
11. Members-Only Content
How to make money from WordPress in 48 hours? Create a simple membership site and charge for access to content. It’s a great way to connect with your audience while generating income.
12. Freelance Services
Use your blog as a portfolio to offer freelance services like writing, editing, graphic design, or social media management. It’s a great way to showcase your skills while making money on the side.
13. Accept Donations
If readers love your content and want to support you, adding a “Buy Me a Coffee” or PayPal Donations button is an easy way to bring in extra cash without doing anything extra.
14. Booking Appointments
If you offer consulting or coaching, use a contact form to let readers book sessions directly through your blog. It’s an easy way to turn your expertise into income.
Your Turn: Which of these strategies resonates with you? Share your experiences in the comments to inspire other moms!
Your 3-Month Plan For Blogging Success – Think You Can Do It?
Month 1: Build The Basics
The first month is all about setting up your blog and getting comfortable with the process.
- Set Up WordPress: Choose your domain name, hosting, and install WordPress (we’ve got you covered in the earlier steps!).
- Pick A Theme: Select a design that reflects your style and niche. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just clean and functional.(If you have design skills, you can make money from WordPress by creating and selling custom themes.)
- Write Your First Five Posts: Focus on content that provides value to your readers, such as helpful tips, personal stories, or how-tos. These posts will serve as the foundation of your blog.
By the end of the first month, you’ll have a live blog and content to share—an incredible milestone!
What if I hit a wall with writer’s block?
- Keep a notebook handy and jot down ideas as they come.
- Browse other blogs to get fresh perspectives.
- Step away for a bit—sometimes a walk or playtime with the kids brings new inspiration.
Month 2: Start Growing and Monetizing
Now that your blog is live, it’s time to start building your audience and exploring income opportunities.
- Affiliate Marketing: Sign up for affiliate programs related to your niche, such as Amazon Affiliates. Include affiliate links in your posts where appropriate.
- Join Google AdSense: Set up ads on your blog to start earning passive income as your traffic grows.
- Promote On Social Media: Share your posts on platforms where your audience hangs out (like Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook). Use engaging captions and visuals to attract readers.
This month is about getting your blog noticed and starting to generate small streams of income.
Month 3: Launch A Digital Product
By month three, you’ll have a better understanding of your audience and their needs. Use this insight to create your first digital product!
- Choose A Product Type: Write an ebook, design printables, or create an online course based on your niche and expertise.
- Promote Your Product: Use your blog, social media, and email newsletter to introduce your audience to your product.
- Start Selling: Platforms like WooCommerce or Gumroad make it simple to sell directly from your blog.
This step sets you up for more consistent income and gives your readers something truly valuable.
Are you following along with our 3-month plan? We’d love to see your progress! Snap a picture of your workspace or share your blog’s link on Instagram with the hashtag #MomBloggingJourney and tag us. We might just feature your post!
Want to Know How a Busy Mom Built a 6-Figure Blog? Meet Michelle!
Michelle Schroeder-Gardner, the founder of Making Sense of Cents. Back in 2011, Michelle started her WordPress blog as a simple way to document her journey toward financial freedom. Like many moms, she was searching for a way to balance her responsibilities while working toward a better future for herself and her family. We had the pleasure of interviewing Michelle – read our full interview here.
What began as a small blog quickly grew into a platform that has now reached over 20 million readers worldwide.
How did she do it?
- Focused on affiliate marketing, course sales, and display ads, earning $760,000 annually in passive income.
- Launched two blogging courses—Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing and Making Sense of Sponsored Posts—generating over $1 million.
- Built a strong social media presence, growing her Facebook to 110,000 followers and Pinterest to 161,000.
Michelle says it best:
“I wasn’t an expert when I started—just a mom with something to share. If I can do it, so can you.”
But you don’t have to do this alone. Join our private Facebook group where moms like you share tips, wins, and challenges. It’s a space to connect, learn, and grow alongside others on the same journey.
Conclusion
WordPress isn’t just a platform—it’s a tool that gives you control. As moms, so much of our time and energy goes toward caring for others. This is your chance to create something for yourself—something that works for you, fits into your life, and helps you achieve your goals.
Whether you’re looking to contribute a little extra income or dreaming of building a business that gives your family more financial freedom, WordPress is there to support you every step of the way.
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FAQs
You can start for as little as $3–$5/month with budget-friendly hosting options like Bluehost or SiteGround.
Not at all! WordPress is beginner-friendly, and with plugins and tutorials readily available, you’ll have all the guidance you need.
The best time is now. Your voice matters, and there’s no better moment to turn your passion into a profitable business.
Earnings vary depending on your niche, traffic, and monetization methods. With consistent effort, you can earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars a month to a full-time income, especially through affiliate marketing, ad revenue, and selling your own products.
To make money quickly, consider setting up an affiliate marketing page with products you already use and recommend, or create a service-based website offering freelance work like writing, web design, or consulting. You can also start displaying ads via Google AdSense as soon as your site gains some traffic.
