Running an effective small business takes many tools and resources. You want to use something or someone that is tried, true and tested. The companies listed below are ones I know and highly recommend. In some cases (though not all), I do receive a commission when you purchase from that company through the link provided.
Website Hosting
Buying your domain name is only the start of having an online presence. Your website needs to sit somewhere (be hosted) by a company that has has a strong up-time record, is priced right, is easy to use on the back-end for us DIY’ers or even semi-DIY’ers, has been around for a while and most importantly provides good service (picks up the phone) when you need them. I’ve used several companies over the life of my company and its not fun to move. This is the company I love and use (click on the banner to go to their site):
Webmaster/Website Design Services
It took me years to find Nick and I had to go through several companies in the process. Nick runs a lean and mean team, understands small businesses, can help with writing and graphics design and most importantly is a pro at WordPress. What he doesn’t know he quickly finds out at no cost to you. I probably shouldn’t give you his info or he’ll get too busy to help me, but here it is: MightyVoltMedia.com