Launching Your First Online Store in 2025
Launching your first online store can be one of the most rewarding experiences if done right. Whether you’re diving into the world of cosmetics, skincare, fashion, or personalized merchandise, success lies in careful planning, smart execution, and a well-thought-out strategy. At MSN Global, we understand the challenges of starting out. That’s why we’ve created this deep, step-by-step guide to walk you through every aspect of launching your online store with confidence.
Step 1: Choose a Product to Sell
The first step is deciding what you want to sell. Your product should not only reflect your passion but also solve a real problem or fulfill a desire in the market.
Popular Categories in 2025:
- Cosmetics: lipsticks, foundations, highlighters, and eye palettes.
- Skincare: moisturizers, serums, facial oils, and sunscreens.
- Fashion: abayas, handbags, accessories, and unstitched lawn.
- Custom Merchandise: Printed mugs, T-shirts, and tote bags.
- Digital Products: Ebooks, downloadable planners, and online courses.
Research current trends using platforms like Google Trends, Amazon Best Sellers, and Daraz.pk to validate your product idea.
Step 2: Design Your Brand
Branding is more than just a logo. It’s your identity, tone, and promise to your customers.
Key Elements:
- Logo & Typography: Simple, memorable, scalable.
- Color Palette: Reflects your niche (e.g., soft tones for skincare, bold for fashion).
- Brand Voice: Casual, elegant, or professional? Pick one and stay consistent.
- Packaging: First impressions matter. Go for custom boxes, eco-friendly materials, and thank-you cards.
MSN Global offers full branding kits starting at PKR 15,000 (approx. $54), including logo, typography, and packaging design.
Step 3: Register Your Business
Legitimizing your business protects you legally and builds trust with customers.
Registration Options in Pakistan:
- Sole Proprietorship: Easiest and most common.
- Private Limited (Pvt Ltd): Suitable for scaling.
- Partnership: For joint ventures.
You’ll also need:
- NTN Number
- Sales Tax Registration (for specific categories)
- Bank Account in Company Name
Registration cost: PKR 5,000 to 15,000 (approx. $18–$54)
Step 4: Set Up WordPress Hosting & Domain Name
To build a WooCommerce store, you need a domain and hosting:
Recommended Hosting Providers:
- Hostinger
- Bluehost
- SiteGround
Estimated Cost:
- Domain: PKR 2,000–5,000/year (approx. $7–$18)
- Hosting: PKR 8,000–20,000/year (approx. $29–$72)
Or go with Shopify if you want an all-in-one, beginner-friendly platform (starts at $39/month, approx. PKR 11,000).
Step 5: Install WordPress
Most web hosting services offer one-click WordPress installation. Once installed, you’ll have access to your dashboard, where you can start customizing your site.
If you’re not tech-savvy, MSN Global can install and set it up for you.
Step 6: Set Up Your WooCommerce Store
WooCommerce is the best free plugin to turn WordPress into an eCommerce store.
Setup Includes:
- Product categories
- Payment options
- Shipping rules
- Coupons & discount settings
We’ll help you configure everything to make your store fully functional.
Step 7: Customize Your Online Store’s Design
Choose a theme that is mobile-friendly, fast, and customizable.
Top Themes:
- Astra
- OceanWP
- Flotsam
Customize your homepage, product pages, menus, and checkout for user experience. Design packages at MSN Global start at PKR 20,000 (approx. $72).
Step 8: Add Products to Your Store
Each product listing should include
- Professional photos (white background + lifestyle shots)
- Product descriptions (features, benefits, usage instructions)
- Price, SKU, Variants (like size, color)
Product Photography Cost:
- Studio shoots: PKR 15,000–50,000 (approx. $54–$180)
- Model shoots: PKR 25,000–60,000 (approx. $90–$215)
We offer bundled photography + content packages.
Step 9: Set Up Payments, Taxes & Shipping
Enable local and international payment gateways:
- JazzCash/EasyPaisa
- COD (Cash on Delivery)
- Credit/Debit Cards via PayFast, Stripe
Set shipping zones using:
- TCS
- Leopards
- Swift
- Local courier riders
Add automatic tax calculators or set flat rates as per your business model.
Step 10: Optimize Your Online Store
Optimization improves visibility and conversions.
Techniques:
- SEO-friendly product titles
- Image compression for faster loading
- WhatsApp Chat plugin
- Google Analytics & Facebook Pixel integration
- Mobile-first design
MSN Global includes SEO and speed optimization in every store build.
Step 11: Master WordPress to Grow
Learn how to manage your store effectively:
- Add blog posts (helps SEO)
- Manage inventory
- Launch promotions
- Use plugins for email marketing, order tracking, popups
We also offer training or monthly management packages.
Step 12: Take It Further—PR, Influencer Collaborations, and Marketing
Your store is ready; now let the world know!
Influencer Marketing:
- Micro (5k–50k followers): PKR 5,000–20,000 (approx. $18–$72)
- Macro (50k+): PKR 25,000–80,000 (approx. $90–$288)
- Barter deals (free product for content)
PR Campaigns:
- Fashion & lifestyle blogs
- Business magazines
- Local press releases
PR cost: PKR 25,000–70,000 (approx. $90–$252)
Social Media Ads:
- Instagram & Facebook ads starting from PKR 10,000 (approx. $36)
- Launch giveaways & flash sales to drive urgency
Real Competitor Analysis
Before you finalize pricing and content, study:
- Sapphire, Limelight, Khaadi (for fashion)
- CoNatural, Organic Traveller (for skincare)
- Masarrat Misbah, Luscious (for cosmetics)
Check their pricing, packaging, website UI/UX, and social media style.
Launch Timeline Example
| Days | Activity |
| 1-5 | Product Research & Competitor Audit |
| 6-10 | Branding & Packaging Design |
| 11-14 | Website Hosting & Setup |
| 15-20 | Product Shoot + Content Writing |
| 21-25 | Add Products + Optimize Store |
| 26-29 | PR & Influencer Coordination |
| 30 | Launch Day |
Final Thoughts
Launching an online store is not just about putting products online. It’s about creating an experience, a brand, and a strategy that sells. With MSN Global, you don’t have to do it alone.
We provide:
- Shopify & WooCommerce development
- Full branding and packaging solutions
- Shooting, PR, and influencer management
- Post-launch marketing strategy
Let’s make your product launch unforgettable.
Contact MSN Global today to start building your eCommerce dream!
