Get Started with Wix Stores
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you'll be able to:
- Add the Wix Stores app to your website and navigate the dashboard
- Configure essential store settings for your business
- Set up payment methods and choose appropriate currencies
Introduction
Setting up an online store on Wix is simpler than you might think. This chapter walks you through the essential first steps: installing Wix Stores, getting familiar with the dashboard, and configuring your basic settings so you can start selling.
We'll cover everything from adding the app to setting up payments, giving you a solid foundation to build your online business.
Lessons
Installing Wix Stores
Here's how to add the Wix Stores app to your site:
Step 1: Log into your Wix account and open your site editor.
Step 2: Click on the App Market icon in the left sidebar.
Step 3: Search for "Wix Stores" in the search bar.
Step 4: Click "Add to Site" to install the app.
Once installed, you'll see the Stores tab appear in your site's dashboard. This is where you'll manage your products, orders, and store settings.
The app creates a basic store structure automatically, but you'll need to customise it to match your business needs.
Understanding Your Store Dashboard
After installation, familiarise yourself with the main sections of your store dashboard:
Products: Where you'll add and manage your inventory.
Orders: Track customer purchases and manage fulfilment.
Coupons & Promotions: Create discount codes and special offers.
Store Settings: Configure shipping, taxes, and general store policies.
Analytics: View sales data and customer insights.
Navigate through each section to understand where different tools live. You don't need to set everything up immediately, but knowing the layout saves time later.
Setting Up Payment Methods
To start accepting payments:
Step 1: Go to Store Settings in your dashboard.
Step 2: Click on "Payments" in the left menu.
Step 3: Choose your payment providers. Wix Payments is the default option, but you can also connect PayPal, Stripe, or other processors.
Step 4: Select your store's primary currency from the dropdown menu.
Step 5: Add additional currencies if you're targeting international customers.
Step 6: Save your changes.
Your payment setup determines what options customers see at checkout, so choose methods that suit your target market.
Configuring Basic Store Information
Complete these essential settings before launching:
Step 1: In Store Settings, click "General Info."
Step 2: Add your business name, address, and contact details.
Step 3: Set your store's time zone and measurement units.
Step 4: Upload your business logo if you have one.
Step 5: Write a brief store description for search engines.
These details appear on invoices, emails, and your store pages, so keep them accurate and professional.
Practice
Complete these tasks to reinforce what you've learned:
- Install Wix Stores on a practice site and explore each section of the dashboard
- Set up at least two payment methods relevant to your target market
- Complete your store's basic information settings
- Browse through the different store templates available and note which style suits your business
FAQs
Do I need a premium plan to use Wix Stores?
Yes, you need a Business plan or higher to accept online payments and remove Wix ads from your store.
Can I change my store currency later?
You can add new currencies anytime, but changing your primary currency affects existing products and orders, so choose carefully at the start.
What payment methods work with Wix Stores?
Wix supports major payment processors including Wix Payments, PayPal, Stripe, and Square. Available options vary by country.
How do I know which plan I need?
Check your current plan in your Wix account settings. For selling physical products, you'll need at least the Business Basic plan.
Jargon Buster
Dashboard: The main control panel where you manage all aspects of your Wix Store.
Payment processor: A service that handles credit card transactions between your store and customers' banks.
Primary currency: The main currency your store uses for pricing and accounting.
Wix Payments: Wix's built-in payment processing service that integrates directly with your store.
Wrap-up
You've now got Wix Stores installed and configured with the basics. Your store dashboard is ready, payments are set up, and your essential business information is in place.
The next step is adding your first products and setting up shipping options. With these foundations sorted, you're well on your way to launching your online store.