Your domain name is the first thing people see online. Keep it clear, simple, and memorable.
Keep it clear and memorable
Good domain names are:
- Easy to spell
- Easy to pronounce
- Easy to remember
- Reflective of your brand
Avoid hyphens, numbers, long or complicated words, and forced abbreviations. You should be able to say it aloud without spelling it letter by letter.
Match your brand where possible
If your exact business name is available, use it. That is usually the best choice.
If it is taken, try:
- Adding a relevant word: studio, digital, design, shop
- Adapting your location if relevant
- Using a clean TLD: .co.uk, .studio, .io
The goal is a domain that feels natural, not like a compromise.
Choose the right extension (TLD)
The extension tells visitors where you operate and what type of business you are.
- .co.uk
Trusted, familiar, regional. Strong choice for UK-focused businesses.
- .uk
Modern, short. Good alternative when .co.uk is taken.
- .com
Global, professional. Widely recognised. Often taken for common names.
- .studio / .digital / .design
Creative brands. Use if they fit your positioning and are available.
Avoid obscure or cheap extensions that can look unprofessional.
Think long-term
Choose a domain you will be happy with in five years. Your business will evolve. Your domain should remain relevant as you grow.
If your brand may expand, pick a domain broad enough for new services or products.
WordPress vs Shopify
WordPress
Sites often grow with blogs, galleries, and new pages. A stable, consistent domain keeps your strategy clean and your SEO strong.
Shopify
Trust matters for ecommerce. Choose a domain that looks credible in Google Shopping, ads, and email.
Test before you commit
Say it out loud. Type it quickly. Imagine it on business cards and emails. A good domain should feel straightforward.
For next steps, see How to buy a domain and Where to buy your domain.
Unclear on domain setup or transfers? Get in touch →