Tools & Resources I Use
My Favorite Tools for Building an Online Business
These are the simple, beginner-friendly tools I personally use to keep my business running smoothly — without high overhead costs.
When I started building my online business, I felt overwhelmed by all the tools available.
Over time, I discovered that you really only need a few simple tools to get started.
These are the tools I personally use every day to run my business.
1. Email Marketing – MailerLite
MailerLite is the email marketing platform I use to send newsletters, deliver my freebies, and stay connected with my community. It’s beginner-friendly, affordable, and simple to set up — even if you’ve never built an email list before.
It allows you to create forms, automations, and landing pages without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Website Hosting – Bluehost
Bluehost is the hosting provider I use to keep my website online and running smoothly. It’s reliable, beginner-friendly, and integrates easily with WordPress.
If you’re starting your first website, it walks you through the setup step by step, which makes the process much less intimidating.
3. Website Platform – WordPress
I use WordPress to build and manage my website. It gives me full control, flexibility, and room to grow as my business expands.
It’s one of the most trusted website platforms in the world and offers thousands of themes and plugins to customize your site.
4. Design Tool – Canva
Canva is my go-to tool for creating social media graphics, workbooks, PDFs, Pinterest pins, and more. It’s incredibly easy to use and perfect for beginners — even if you have no design experience.
The free version offers more than enough to get started, and the drag-and-drop features make designing simple and fun.
5. My Secret Weapon:
ChatGPT
Of all the tools I use, this one has made the biggest difference. ChatGPT helps me organize ideas, improve my writing, clarify steps, and learn as I build.
When you’re starting something new, having a steady assistant to brainstorm with makes all the difference.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase through one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources that I personally use, trust, and believe will truly help you as you build your own online journey.
Mary's Amazon Favorites
The Story of Grammar
A fun illustrated book that helps children learn the 8 parts of speech in a storybook way. I wrote and published this book to make Grammar feel easier to understand and remember.
Apple 2025 MacBook Pro
A powerful laptop for writing, creating content, managing a website, and building an online business with less tech frustration. Great for anyone who wants speed, storage, and reliable performance.
HP OfficeJet Pro 8125 Wireless All-in-One Printer
A reliable home office printer for printing, scanning, copying, and everyday business tasks. I like that it offers wireless convenience, duplex printing, and all-in-one features in one simple machine.