How to Set up a Website for your Hospitality Business

1. Pick a website builder

• Wix: An extremely flexible and easy-to-use platform that lets you pick a template of your choice, add text and images to it, and move elements to any place on the page. You don’t have to start designing from a blank slate.
• Squarespace: If you’re looking for beautiful customisable templates, the freedom to blog and showcase photo galleries, andalso add a fully-integrated store to your restaurant website, this platform is perfect for your business.
• WooCommerce: An intuitive platform which will help you create an online checkout system and provide you with unlimited delivery options with its host of e-commerce features using interactive widgets and functions.
• Wordpress: You can choose from a wide range of themed layouts and customise according to the vibe of your restaurant. While you need a bit of technical assistance, you're sure to get exactly what you want with the easy-to-install add-ons.

2. Choose a Domain & Hosting

1. Your domain name should be your business name. If this name is taken, try adding a local element to it to differentiate you, like your city. Generally, it is better to own the .com version of your domain, so try and avoid country domains.
2. Now you need to choose a hosting plan. Again, find a hosting plan that has a dedicated Wordpress, Squarespace, or Wix service.
3. Finally set up your email account! This is of course a domain-based email account. Best practice here is to include a branded email account like hello@restaurant.com or book@restaurant.com.

3. Choose a Theme

1. What is your objective? To drive orders? To facilitate online bookings? To promote your business? Try and find a theme that already offers an online ordering service or can integrate with one, like WooCommerce.
2. What is your style? Dark and moody or fresh and bright?
3. Which cuisine do you offer? Usually, your cuisine should be evident in the theme you select. This will ensure website visitors experience the authenticity of your offering.
4. Guest Experience: Use a theme that is easy to navigate and has plenty of space for large imagery to feature your dishes. This includes bold call-to-action buttons for ordering and booking. Try and find a theme that includes a dedicated section for customer reviews.

4. Add your Food-service Information

1. Menu: Upload a digital version of your menu to your website. Also, include a pdf version that customers can download and keep for future bookings.
2. Gallery: People eat with their eyes right? Make sure you include lots of pictures (in a gallery or carousel format) of your dishes! Also feature photos of your physical foodservice location that best illustrates your ambiance.
3. Location: Everyone needs to know where you are located! Even if you only deliver food online, consumers base credibility on basic information like address and contact details.
4. Contact: Include a contact number as well as your newly created email address. This way guests can also contact you if they have questions about bookings, dishes and more.
5. Reviews: Consumers trust fellow diners more than they trust brands. Reach out to a couple of loyal guests asking them if they're willing to write a great review for you in return for a complimentary drink.

5. Set up Ordering & Booking

6. Sign up for Google My Business