Choosing a blog name might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of things, but trust me, it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a blogger. Your blog name is the first impression readers will have of your brand, and it’s what they’ll remember you by (or not, if it’s too complicated!). As someone who’s been through the wringer of picking a blog name, I’m here to share my tips to make sure you land on something that’s perfect for you and your blog.
When I was deciding on the name Simply Sarah Kate, I went through dozens of options, testing them out on friends and family, scribbling them down in notebooks, and even trying to imagine how they’d look on social media. After much deliberation, I settled on a name that felt like me—a name that’s simple, classic, and reflects the lifestyle content I love to share. But it wasn’t an easy process, and there were definitely a few missteps along the way.
So, before you commit to a name that you might regret later, here are nine questions to ask yourself. These questions will guide you through the process and help you choose a name that’s not only a good fit for your blog but also for you as a person.
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1. Does the Name Reflect My Niche or Content Focus?
One of the first things to consider is whether your blog name clearly reflects what your blog is about. If someone stumbles across your blog for the first time, they should be able to get an idea of your content just from the name. This is especially important if you’re targeting a specific niche.
For example, when I started Simply Sarah Kate, I knew I wanted to write about a variety of lifestyle topics—everything from home décor to travel tips to personal reflections. The word “Simply” was intentional; it’s a nod to the simple, everyday joys I like to explore on my blog. “Sarah Kate” is, of course, me, and using my name made the blog feel personal and authentic, which was key to my brand.
If you’re blogging about vegan cooking, for instance, consider including something about food, plants, or health in your blog name. If you’re a tech reviewer, words like “geek,” “tech,” or “gadgets” can help set the tone.
Tips for Reflecting Your Niche:
- Brainstorm Keywords: List out all the words that relate to your blog’s content. These could be anything from specific terms to broader concepts.
- Think About Your Target Audience: What kind of language do they use? What would resonate with them?
- Combine Concepts: Sometimes the best names come from combining two ideas that sum up your niche perfectly.
2. Is the Name Unique and Memorable?
In a sea of blogs, you want to stand out. That’s why your blog name needs to be unique and memorable. If your name is too similar to another blog, not only could it cause confusion, but it could also lead to issues with branding down the line.
When I was choosing Simply Sarah Kate, I checked to make sure there weren’t any other blogs or businesses with a similar name. I also thought about how memorable the name was. “Simply” is a word that sticks in your mind, and by pairing it with my first and middle names, I made sure the name was unique to me.
How to Ensure Your Name is Unique:
- Google It: A quick Google search can show you if there are other blogs or businesses with a similar name.
- Check Social Media: Make sure the name isn’t already in use on major social media platforms.
- Consider Trademarking: If you’re serious about your blog, check to see if your name could be trademarked in the future.
3. Is the Domain Name Available?
Once you’ve landed on a name you love, the next step is to see if the domain name is available. Ideally, you want a .com or .co.uk domain, as these are the most recognisable and credible extensions.
When I was ready to register SimplySarahKate.com, I was relieved to find it available. Having the exact match for my blog name and domain made everything feel cohesive. It’s much easier for readers to remember and find your site when the blog name matches the domain.
Checking Domain Availability:
- Use Domain Search Tools: Websites like Namecheap or GoDaddy are great for checking domain availability.
- Consider Alternative Extensions: If your preferred .com domain isn’t available, think about other extensions like .co, .net, or even country-specific ones like .co.uk.
- Keep It Short and Sweet: A shorter domain is easier to remember and less likely to be mistyped.
4. Is the Name Easy to Spell and Pronounce?
Imagine you’re chatting with a friend and recommending your blog. You want them to be able to easily spell and pronounce the name when they go to check it out. If your name is too complex or unusual, you might end up losing traffic because people can’t find your blog.
Simply Sarah Kate is pretty straightforward, but I went through some name ideas that were a bit more creative and harder to spell. Ultimately, I decided that simplicity was key—hence the “Simply” in the name! A clear, easy-to-pronounce name can make all the difference in how people remember your blog.
Tips for Simplicity:
- Avoid Unusual Spellings: Creative spellings might look unique but can be a hassle for readers to remember.
- Say It Out Loud: If it’s hard to pronounce when spoken, it might be hard for people to remember or type.
- Test It: Run the name by a few friends or family members to see if they can easily spell and pronounce it.
5. Does the Name Have Longevity?
This is a big one. You want a name that will grow with your blog. When I started Simply Sarah Kate, I knew that my interests might evolve over time. While I might focus on home decor now, I wanted the flexibility to expand into other areas like fashion, travel, or even parenting down the road.
A name that’s too specific might box you in. For example, if you name your blog something like Sarah’s Vegan Kitchen but later decide you want to write about non-food topics, you might find yourself needing a rebrand.
Planning for the Future:
- Think Long-Term: Consider how your interests or focus might shift over time.
- Keep it Broad: A slightly broader name allows for more flexibility in content.
- Avoid Trends: Trendy names might not stand the test of time, so think about whether the name will still make sense in five or ten years.
6. Is the Name Free of Unintended Meanings?
One of the trickiest parts of naming your blog is making sure there aren’t any unintended meanings—especially if your audience is international. What sounds clever in one language might mean something entirely different (and potentially embarrassing) in another.
For example, I toyed with a few names that played on British slang, but after a bit of research, I realised that not all of them would translate well outside the UK. Even within the UK, regional slang can have different meanings!
Avoiding Unintended Meanings:
- Research the Name: Look up the name in different languages or cultural contexts to ensure it doesn’t have negative connotations.
- Get Feedback: Ask friends, especially those from different backgrounds, what they think of the name.
- Stay Clear of Controversy: Be mindful of current events and cultural sensitivities to avoid any unintentional associations.
7. Does the Name Align with My Brand Identity?
Your blog name is a huge part of your brand identity. It sets the tone for your content and helps shape how readers perceive you. Simply Sarah Kate is a name that aligns perfectly with my brand—simple, elegant, and personal. It feels genuine to who I am and what I want my blog to represent.
When choosing your name, think about the image you want to project. Are you aiming for a professional tone? A fun and quirky vibe? Your name should reflect that.
Creating Brand Alignment:
- Know Your Brand: Take some time to define your brand’s personality, values, and mission.
- Match the Tone: If your content is light-hearted and fun, your name should reflect that. If it’s more serious or professional, choose a name that fits.
- Consistency is Key: Make sure your name, logo, colours, and overall branding all work together to create a cohesive image.
8. Is the Name Short and Simple?
When it comes to blog names, shorter is usually better. A short, simple name is easier to remember, quicker to type, and less likely to be misspelled. It also tends to look better in logos and on social media.
Simply Sarah Kate is a bit longer than some blog names, but it’s still simple and easy to remember. If you can, aim for a name that’s no more than two or three words. Avoid unnecessary complexity—think of names that roll off the tongue and are easy to recall.
Benefits of a Short Name:
- Easier to Share: People are more likely to mention and share your blog if the name is easy to remember.
- Looks Clean: Shorter names look better on business cards, social media handles, and in your blog’s logo.
- Reduces Errors: A shorter name reduces the risk of typos when people try to find your blog.
9. Will the Name Appeal to My Target Audience?
Finally, consider your target audience. You want a name that resonates with the people you’re writing for. Think about what your audience values, the language they use, and the kind of content they’re looking for.
Simply Sarah Kate was designed with my readers in mind—people who enjoy the simpler things in life, who appreciate personal stories and everyday inspiration. I wanted a name that felt approachable and relatable, just like the content I create.
Understanding Your Audience:
- Create a Reader Persona: Imagine your ideal reader. What are their interests? What kind of names might appeal to them?
- Ask for Feedback: If you’re unsure, get feedback from potential readers or friends who fit your target demographic.
- Test the Waters: If you have a shortlist of names, consider running a poll on social media to see which resonates most with your audience.
Conclusion
Choosing a blog name is a big decision, but by asking yourself these ten questions, you can be confident that you’re making the right choice. Your blog name is more than just a label—it’s the foundation of your brand, the first thing people will see, and what they’ll remember you by.
When I chose Simply Sarah Kate, it wasn’t just a name; it was a reflection of who I am and what I wanted to share with the world. Take your time, do your research, and most importantly, choose a name that feels right for you. After all, your blog is an extension of yourself, and the name should be something you’re proud to share with others.
Good luck with your blog naming journey! If you’ve got some ideas or need help deciding, feel free to drop a comment—I’d love to hear from you and help you out.
