The Only Platforms You Need to Start Your Business
(No Overwhelm, Just Strategy)
Starting a business can feel like trying to put together IKEA furniture without instructions. So many tools. So many options. So many subscriptions you signed up for and never used (guilty).
Let’s cut the chaos and get real. You don’t need all the things—you just need the right ones to hit the ground running without draining your energy or your bank account.
Here are the must-have platforms I recommend to all my clients when they’re launching or leveling up their brand:
Canva Pro
Your new BFF for DIY design that doesn’t scream "I just started."
Let’s be honest—your brand needs to look good. Like, scroll-stopping, DM-worthy good.
But not everyone has a graphic designer on speed dial (yet). That’s where Canva Pro comes in.
Why you need it: Easy drag-and-drop design for everything—digital products, IG posts, email headers, lead magnets, even client welcome packets.
Pro Perks: Save your brand kit (colors, fonts, logos), access premium templates, background remover (a godsend), and create on-brand content in minutes.
YBB Tip: Create a folder for each offer or launch so your visuals stay organized.
Squarespace or Shopify
Build it.
Launch it.
Get paid, baby.
Your website is your digital storefront. Whether you’re selling physical products, services, or digital offers, you need a clean, functional, and stunning online home.
Squarespace = sleek, service-based, and simple to use. Great for coaches, consultants, and creatives.
Shopify = e-commerce powerhouse. If you're selling physical products or want a robust shop, this is your girl.
Why you need it: You own your corner of the internet. Social platforms come and go—but your website? That’s yours forever.
YBB tip: You can snag a free custom domain through Squarespace, or grab one on GoDaddy if you want a little more control over your domain settings.
Stripe
Because getting paid should be the easiest part of your business.
Stripe is the gold standard for online payment processing. It’s secure, sleek, and integrates with almost every platform you’ll use.
Why you need it: Accept credit card payments directly through your site or sales platforms with ease. No sketchy fees. No fuss.
Pro move: Pair Stripe with a scheduling tool like Calendly or a checkout page on Flodesk, Squarespace or Shopify for seamless payments.
Flodesk
Email marketing, but make it pretty and powerful.
Flodesk is where sexy design meets strategy. It’s the email marketing platform for people who actually care about how their brand looks.
Why you need it: Build and nurture your email list from day one. Flodesk helps you send stunning, branded emails and sales pages that convert.
Features we love: Easy automations, high-converting workflows, drag-and-drop design, and a flat fee regardless of how big your list gets.
YBB Tip: Create a welcome sequence to start building relationships with new subscribers immediately—automate the magic!
Calendly
Make it easy for people to book you—without the awkward back-and-forth.
When you're ready to take meetings, client calls, or free discovery sessions, Calendly keeps your schedule in check.
Why you need it: No more “What time works for you?” emails. Calendly integrates with your calendar, lets people book time with you, and even collects payments.
Make it spicy: Customize your availability, add intake forms, and link it to Stripe or PayPal so you're never chasing invoices.
These platforms aren’t just tools—they’re your launch crew. They’ll help you look polished, stay organized, and actually make money. Start with these 5, learn the ropes, and scale from there. Trust me, this isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what works. Got questions about how to set any of these up? Slide into my DMs or hit the blog comments. Your Business Bestie is always here to help.
Disclaimer: Links provided in this post may be affiliate links.