Choosing the right domain name is a big deal.

It’s like picking a name for your pet—something you’ll love and remember, but hopefully less embarrassing when you tell people about it. It’s not just a web address; it’s your brand’s first handshake, a marketing tool, and, yep, a key piece for getting the ol’ Google love. So, let’s chat about how to pick one that’s memorable, meaningful, and maybe even a little bit fun. Real examples included, for that extra spice. A good domain name is what makes your brand stick in people’s minds—like a catchy song that just won’t quit, but in a good way. We’re here to talk about all the ins and outs of picking a killer name for your site, and hopefully, have a laugh along the way.

Why your domain name matters

Your domain name—it’s kind of like your business card, but cooler. And let’s be honest, business cards get thrown away or shoved in a drawer. Your domain name, though, sticks around and says a lot about who you are, 24/7.

• First impressions: This is your digital handshake. Mess that up, and potential customers will ghost you before you even get a chance. Imagine your website is a party—your domain name is the bouncer at the door. If it’s sketchy, people will just walk on by.
• Branding: You want people to think of your brand in the shower, at traffic lights, while eating toast. A catchy domain can help with that. It’s the kind of thing that, when done right, turns into free advertising. Your friend tells their friend, and boom—you’re on everyone’s mind.
• SEO impact: Look, putting keywords in your domain isn’t as magic as it used to be, but it still counts for something. It’s like that one extra crouton in your salad—maybe not necessary, but nice to have. Search engines still like it when your domain name gives a hint of what you’re about.
• Credibility: A legit-looking domain name makes people think you’re not running a scam from your mum’s basement. (And if you are, well, a good domain can still help.) A domain that looks trustworthy gives you a little head start in winning people over before they even see what you’re offering.

What makes a good domain name?

• Brandability: You want something that rolls off the tongue and sticks in your brain. Think ‘Nike’ but for whatever you’re doing—shoes, websites, lawnmowers, you name it. If it’s fun to say and easy to remember, you’ve got yourself a winner. It needs to have that “oh yeah, I know them” kind of vibe.
• Simplicity and memorability: Easy to say, easy to spell, and not a typo waiting to happen. Long and complicated names? No thanks. Remember, the fewer syllables, the fewer headaches. Imagine having to tell someone your domain name over a bad phone connection—it should be smooth, not an ordeal.
• Relevance: It should at least hint at what you’re doing. If you’re selling cupcakes, don’t name your site “RocketEnergy.io”—unless your cupcakes are really wild. A good domain name gives people an idea of what to expect. You wouldn’t name your pet dog “Fluffy Unicorn” if it’s a Doberman, right?

Choosing the right extension

• .com or something else: Look, everyone loves .com—it’s the James Bond of domain extensions. It’s sleek, classic, and everybody knows it. But if you’re in the UK, maybe consider .co.uk. If you’re feeling techie, .io is the hipster choice, and if you fancy AI, go for .ai. Basically, pick what suits your vibe. If your audience is specific, tailor the extension accordingly.
• Country-specific TLDs: If you’re strictly local, a country-specific domain might just hit the spot. Think .ca for Canada or .fr for France. People like that local touch; it makes you feel part of the neighbourhood, even if the neighbourhood is all of Australia.

Case studies: Real domain names analysed

MaxiBlocks.com

• Brandability: “MaxiBlocks” has that kind of larger-than-life feel. It sounds like a big deal, but not in an obnoxious way. It’s got a building vibe, which works well for something modular—software or construction, you pick. It’s like saying “we got blocks, and they’re big”—catchy without trying too hard.
• Simplicity and memorability: Easy. Two words, no weird spellings. Your Aunt Sheila could type it in without calling for help. We’re all about making things easy for Aunt Sheila.
• Relevance: If you’re dealing with modular stuff, you nailed it. Blocks are literal building pieces, and “Maxi” sounds like there’s a lot of them, which is either very good or very terrifying. Either way, it sticks.
• SEO impact: The word “blocks” is right there, making you look good in the building or software niche. If someone’s looking for blocks, they’re finding you, whether they want to or not.

YeahCan.com

• Brandability: “YeahCan” is like that buddy who’s always up for anything. Positive, easy-going, not too fancy. Works well for a creative agency or even a solutions provider (though it might need an explainer at first). It’s got a nice, laid-back feel, like someone saying, “Yeah, we can do that!”
• Simplicity and memorability: Short and catchy. It’s the type of name people remember after a pub night, which is the benchmark for memorability if you ask me. You want people to remember you when they’re three pints in—not an easy feat.
• Relevance: A bit abstract, but that’s not always bad. Keeps you flexible for whatever direction the business takes—whether you’re making apps or selling surfboards. It gives you room to grow, and sometimes that’s more important than being super specific.
• SEO impact: No keywords here, but who cares—build some good content and Google will still play nice. People will find you if what you offer is worthwhile, even if your name doesn’t scream “we do X.”

Divi-Den.com

• Brandability: “Divi” is a direct nod to the popular WordPress theme, and “Den” makes it sound like a hangout spot. Pretty niche but effective for WordPress developers. If you’re into Divi, you’ll get it immediately, which is half the battle.
• Simplicity and memorability: Hyphens are a bummer. People forget them, type them wrong, or just don’t bother. It’s easy to remember, though, if you’re already in the Divi club. The hyphen is like that annoying friend you have to invite to the party.
• SEO impact: The keyword “Divi” helps. Niche keywords like this can give you a boost if you’re serving that specific market. If you’re talking to Divi folks, they’ll find you.

PinkBlocks.com

• Brandability: It’s colourful, it’s fun, and it’s got “blocks.” You can tell it’s about building stuff, but the “pink” adds a twist—maybe it’s creative, or playful, or it’s just someone who really loves pink. It stands out, and sometimes that’s all you need.
• Simplicity and memorability: Dead simple. No one’s gonna forget “Pink Blocks” unless they have the memory of a goldfish. Easy to spell, too. The kind of name that sticks around even if it’s not exactly your favourite colour.
• Relevance: Could work for a creative brand, maybe something targeted at kids or playful adults. It doesn’t pigeonhole itself too much, which keeps the doors open. You could sell anything from toys to design software with that name.

Seku.re

• Brandability: I see what you did there—it’s “secure,” but cooler. Very cyberpunk. Maybe too cool for your aunt, though. It’s clever, but clever can be a double-edged sword—sometimes people need a minute to get it.
• Simplicity and memorability: It’s edgy, but the creative spelling and that .re extension might be a roadblock for some folks. Be ready to spell it out a lot. When it comes to creative spellings, just know you’ll be repeating yourself.
• Relevance: Bang-on for security, especially online. If you’re selling home security or online encryption, it fits. Makes you sound like you know your stuff when it comes to keeping things safe.
• SEO impact: Not great for traditional SEO because people might not spell it right. But it’s unique, so you could still carve out your niche. If you’re memorable enough, people will make the effort.

Tips for choosing your own domain name

• Keep it short and sweet: Aim for two words, max three. Anything longer than a drunk text is probably a no-go. You want people to remember it without needing to write it down.
• Relevant keywords, but don’t overdo it: Keywords help, but don’t make it sound like a robot came up with it. “BestDiscountSofaWarehouse.com” isn’t winning any prizes. Balance is key—hint at what you do, but keep it human.
• Pick a solid extension: Go for .com unless there’s a good reason not to. If you’re local, use your country code. If you’re techy, .io is all the rage, but only if it makes sense. Your extension should feel like part of your brand, not an afterthought.
• Avoid legal messes: Make sure your brilliant domain idea isn’t already trademarked by someone else. You don’t want to start your business with a cease and desist letter. A little research goes a long way—nobody wants that kind of headache.
• Check the socials: Consistency is key. Make sure the social media handles match, or are at least close enough. You want people to find you without turning it into a scavenger hunt. If they can’t find you on Instagram, they might not bother at all.
• No hyphens or numbers: Nothing kills cool vibes like telling people your site is “amazing-dash-sneakers-23.com.” Keep it clean. Hyphens are a recipe for confusion, and numbers—unless they’re part of your brand—are just a hassle.
• Easy pronunciation and spelling: This one’s for the cocktail party test. If you can say it without repeating yourself five times, you’re good to go. Make it easy for people to share your name without stumbling over it.

Final thoughts

Choosing a domain is like naming your kid—it’s permanent, it says a lot about you, and there’s always going to be someone who thinks it’s rubbish. But it’s yours, and that’s what counts. Keep it simple, make it memorable, and pick something you’d be happy to say out loud in a crowded room. Get it right, and your domain could be the start of something amazing—even if it’s just fewer typos. Plus, there’s nothing like seeing your name up there in the URL bar, feeling like you’ve got a little slice of the internet all to yourself. Cheers to that, and to fewer awkward introductions at parties.