Getting started with Cottage CMS.
Your step-by-step guide to launching your cottage food business website.
Launch path
5 Steps to Launch
Follow these steps to get your cottage food website up and running.
Create Your Account
Sign up for Cottage CMS and verify your email. Choose your business name and get access to your dashboard.
- Go to cottagecms.com/register
- Enter your email and create a password
- Verify your email address
- Set up your business name
Add Your Products
Upload photos, set prices, and describe your delicious cottage food offerings.
- Go to Products in your dashboard
- Click "Add" (or "Add Your First Product") and upload a photo
- Set your price and description
- Set up pickup dates in Planner if the product needs them
Set Up Payments
Connect your payment gateway: Square or Stripe, based on your country and plan.
- Go to Settings → Payments in your dashboard
- Connect your eligible Square or Stripe account
- Finish account verification and choose your card-payment default
- Review the payment methods customers can use
Choose Your Website Address
Your Cottage CMS address is active already. Connect a custom domain if you want one.
- Go to Settings → Domain in your dashboard
- If you own an address, choose its setup path
- Follow the DNS instructions shown for that address
- Check the domain status before sharing the custom address
Launch Your Site
Review your live storefront, checkout terms, and pickup details before sharing it.
- Open View Live Site from the dashboard
- Set Terms of Sale in Settings → Checkout
- Add pickup instructions to your location in Planner
- Share your storefront address when you are ready
Deeper guides
Detailed Setup Guides
Dive deeper into each aspect of setting up your site.
Business Profile
Set up your business name, logo, contact information, and hours.
Product Management
Add products, organize into categories, and manage inventory.
Payments & Billing
Connect your payment gateway and review the methods customers can use.
Custom Domain
Use your own domain name for a professional look.
Store Policies
Set checkout terms and pickup instructions, then review your storefront.
Theme Customization
Customize colors, fonts, and layout to match your brand.
Helpful context
Helpful Resources
More guides and information to help you succeed.
Support
Need Help?
Our cottage food industry experts are here to help you launch successfully. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Contact SupportResponse within 24 hours