Setting up email in WordPress can feel like fixing a spaceship with duct tape. But don’t worry! Today, we’re turning the control panel into a comfy dashboard. Whether you’re starting a blog, running an online store, or managing your own puppy fan club, having a working email setup in WordPress is essential.
This guide will show you how to add email in WordPress. It’s easy, fun, and best of all — only slightly more complicated than making toast. 🔧🍞
Why You Need Email in WordPress
You might be wondering — “Why do I even need to add email?” Great question!
When you run a WordPress site, things like:
- User registration confirmations
- Password reset links
- Order receipts and contact form replies
all need to be sent through email. If WordPress can’t send emails, your users might end up confused. And a confused user is not a happy user.
Step 1: Decide How You Want to Send Emails
Out of the box, WordPress tries to send emails using PHP mail. That’s like shouting someone’s name into the wind and hoping they hear you. Instead, it’s way better to use an SMTP service.
SMTP = Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. It’s like a reliable postal worker for your emails.
Popular SMTP Providers
- Gmail (Google Workspace)
- Mailgun
- SendGrid
- SMTP.com
- Zoho Mail
Pick the one you like best. Some are free, some offer more control. Your site, your choice!
Step 2: Install a WordPress SMTP Plugin
Now comes the fun part — adding the plugin. We’re going to use WP Mail SMTP. It’s simple, reliable, and has a free version.
- Go to your WordPress dashboard
- Click on Plugins → Add New
- Search for WP Mail SMTP
- Click Install Now and then Activate
Step 3: Configure WP Mail SMTP
Once activated, go to WP Mail SMTP → Settings. Here’s where the magic happens.
You’ll see fields like:
- From Email: The email address emails will appear to come from
- From Name: Your name or brand name
Below that, you’ll find a list of mailers. Pick the one that matches your SMTP provider:
- Gmail
- SMTP.com
- Sendinblue
- Mailgun
Select it and then enter your credentials. That usually includes:
- SMTP Host
- SMTP Port (usually 587)
- Encryption type (TLS or SSL)
- Username and Password
Click Save Settings.
Step 4: Test Your Email
Don’t leave this step out — it helps make sure everything’s working!
Go to WP Mail SMTP → Tools and find the Email Test tab. Enter an address (your own is fine) and hit Send Email.
If everything’s set up right, you’ll get a confirmation email. 🎉 Congratulations! You’re now officially an email wizard!
Step 5: Use Email on Contact Forms
If you’re using something like WPForms or Contact Form 7, the emails sent from those forms will now use your new SMTP setup.
To check this:
- Go to your form plugin’s settings
- Find the “Notifications” section
- Make sure the correct email address is entered as the recipient
Do a test submission and check your inbox. If it lands safely, your forms are now sending messages like pros.
Bonus Tip: Set Up a Branded Email with Your Domain
If your site is www.cupcakecats.com, wouldn’t it be awesome to have an email like hello@cupcakecats.com?
You can do that easily with providers like:
- Google Workspace (Gmail)
- Zoho Mail (free plan available!)
- ProtonMail (for privacy lovers)
Once your domain email is active, connect it to WordPress using the same SMTP plugin. That’s brand power, baby! 💪
Common Problems and Fixes
Sometimes things go wonky. Here are a few quick fixes:
- Email not sending? Double check your SMTP settings. A missing dot or wrong port can mess it all up.
- Emails going to spam? Try setting an SPF record in your domain’s DNS so email services know you’re trustworthy.
- Cannot authenticate with SMTP? Make sure you’re using an App Password if required by your email provider (especially Gmail).
Best Practices for WordPress Email
- Always send test emails after changes
- Use your domain-based email if possible
- Don’t overdo sending — spamming is bad!
Email is a powerful tool. With great power comes… you guessed it — great filtering! So make sure your messages are clean, clear, and helpful.
Conclusion
And that’s how you add an email in WordPress! 🎉 No wizard hat required. Just a few clicks, smart choices, and one stuffed plugin.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Pick an SMTP provider
- Install WP Mail SMTP
- Configure your settings
- Test your email
- Make sure forms can email you
Once emailed-powered, your site becomes a whole lot more professional and user-friendly. Plus, you’ll never miss out on another contact form submission again!
Now go forth and email like a champion! 🚀