Step 1: Choose a Platform
Popular options for small businesses:
- Mailchimp — Free up to 500 contacts, easy drag-and-drop editor
- Brevo (formerly Sendinblue) — Free up to 300 emails/day, includes SMS
- ConvertKit — Great for content creators, free up to 1,000 subscribers
- Constant Contact — Best for event-heavy businesses
Step 2: Import Your Contacts
Upload your existing customer list via CSV. Make sure you have permission to email them (anti-spam compliance under CASL in Canada).
Step 3: Set Up Your Sending Domain
Add DNS records (SPF, DKIM, DMARC) to authenticate your sending domain. This prevents emails from going to spam.
Step 4: Create a Welcome Email
Set up an automated welcome email that sends when someone joins your list. Include:
- A thank-you message
- What they can expect from you
- A clear call to action
Step 5: Add Signup Forms
Place email signup forms on your website — in the footer, on your contact page, and as an exit-intent popup.
