How to Make Your Shopify Store Live

Are you ready to launch your Shopify store and start your ecommerce journey? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make your store accessible to the world. Let’s dive in and get your business online! Steps to Launch Your Shopify Store 1. Add Your Domain First impressions matter, and your domain is […]

How to Make Your Shopify Store Live

Are you ready to launch your Shopify store and start your ecommerce journey? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make your store accessible to the world. Let’s dive in and get your business online!

Steps to Launch Your Shopify Store

1. Add Your Domain

First impressions matter, and your domain is often the first thing customers see. Here’s how to set it up:


  • Go to Domains


  • Choose to Connect Existing Domain or buy a new one


  • If connecting an existing domain, paste the domain URL you want to use


Remember, a memorable domain can significantly boost your brand recognition.

2. Update DNS Records

This step is crucial for connecting your domain to your Shopify store:

  • Access your domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap)

  • Change the A Record to point to Shopify’s IP address: 23.227.38.32

  • Update the CNAME for the www version to your Shopify store link (e.g., storename.myshopify.com) without including HTTP

Don’t worry if this seems technical – most domain registrars offer guides to help you through this process.

3. Remove Storefront Password

Time to open your virtual doors:

  • In your Shopify Admin, go to Online Store > Preferences

  • Find Password Protection section

  • Uncheck the option to enable password protection

Need more information, check out our complete guide to removing your Shopify password.

4. Set Your Primary Domain

Establish your main web address:

  • Return to the Domains section in your Shopify Admin

  • Select your desired primary domain

  • Ensure the option to Redirect all traffic to this domain is checked

5. Test Your Store

Before the grand opening, let’s make sure everything works smoothly:

  • Place a test order to verify your checkout process

  • Check if payment processing and shipping options function correctly

  • Review all links and content for accuracy and functionality

6. Final Checks

You’re almost there! Just a few more things to verify:

  • Confirm that all integrations (like payment gateways) are working properly

  • Set up and test analytics tracking if needed

  • Conduct a final review of your store’s appearance and functionality

What to Do Next After Launching Your Shopify Store

You’ve just gone live with your Shopify store – that’s a huge accomplishment! But the journey is just beginning. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your new online business and set yourself up for long-term success.

1. Conduct a Thorough Quality Check

Now that your store is live, it’s crucial to ensure everything is working perfectly. Test the checkout process from start to finish. Verify all links are working correctly.

Double-check product descriptions and prices. Ensure all images are loading properly.

Test your store on different devices and browsers. Fix any issues immediately to provide a smooth experience for your first customers.

2. Set Up Google Analytics

While Shopify provides basic analytics, connecting Google Analytics will give you deeper insights into your store’s performance.

Install the Google Analytics tracking code. Set up ecommerce tracking to monitor sales and conversion rates.

Create goals to track specific user actions. Use these insights to make data-driven decisions about your store’s development.

3. Implement an SEO Strategy

Now is the time to focus on getting found in search engines. Optimize your product titles and descriptions with relevant keywords. Create unique meta descriptions for each page.

Start a blog to target long-tail keywords and provide value to your audience. Build backlinks through partnerships or guest posting. Remember, SEO is a long-term strategy, so be patient and consistent.

4. Launch Your First Marketing Campaign

Start attracting customers to your new store. Run a “Grand Opening” sale to generate buzz. Create social media accounts and start posting regularly.

Consider running targeted ads on platforms like Facebook or Google. Reach out to influencers in your niche for potential collaborations.

Track the performance of each marketing channel to identify what works best for your business.

5. Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Reviews can significantly impact your store’s credibility and sales. Set up an automated email sequence to request reviews after purchase. Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative.

Feature positive reviews prominently on your site. Address negative reviews professionally and use them as opportunities to improve.

Conclusion

Remember, your launch day is just the beginning. The e-commerce landscape is dynamic, offering endless opportunities for growth and innovation. Stay curious, remain adaptable, and always keep your customers at the heart of your decisions.

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