On one hand, the native WordPress site builder has become more powerful, requiring fewer plugins than ever. On the other hand, I’ve become more reluctant to touch code, so here is the stack I will use to create websites in 2025.
The latest version of WordPress
Even a beta version if I can be “risky.” After testing new WordPress features, I hate living in the present.
So, WordPress 6.7 for now.
The latest WordPress default theme
Older themes often do not use the latest WordPress features.
Default themes can be “boring,” but consider accessibility from the start.
So, I use the Twenty Twenty-Five theme.
A very good web hosting
I work for DreamHost, so I’m spoiled with DreamPress Managed WordPress.
With good hosting, you don’t have to worry too much about backup, cache, or AI plugins.
I enjoy working online for development, as it is easy to share progress and collaborate with several people without having to sync. So, I use a temporal domain or a Staging site.
And a Macbook Air. I wouldn’t say I like fans.
Good Design tools
But to be honest, I prefer having a sound designer for a solid start with graphics.
Gimp for quick edits and TinyJPG for online compression.
I like working with Figma for vector.
If I need precision to implement a design, I use xScope guides floating on the screen.
I use ImageMagick from the terminal to convert to modern image formats like AVIF.
I like taking pictures, using the WordPress Photo Directory, and referring to photographers.
The Block Visibility plugin
I use it mainly to hide and show sections that don’t look good enough on mobile.
I stick to simple designs. Using Native WordPress blocks like the Grid and Columns makes responsive controls less necessary for each release, but some use cases remain.
Good old Contact form 7 plugin
Not every project needs a contact form, but if it does, I will install Contact Form 7 because it is flexible, popular, and easy to extend.
I wish default themes would start adding even more CSS to form elements so I wouldn’t have to add additional rules.
WP Mail SMTP helps me send e-mails reliably from the server.
The classic Yoast SEO plugin
This plugin solves some things that I care about the most:
- Meta description.
- Social images when sharing a post.
- A powerful sitemap.
Other plugins, depending on the project
Plugins like Social Sharing Block for building a website with a blog or magazine complement my stack.
To collect Mailchimp e-mails, I use MC4WP: Mailchimp for WordPress.
WooCommerce is my favorite for e-commerce, and the list will continue, but ask me if you need anything.
I love using real block plugins that extend and adopt the WordPress way of doing things.
If you need help building a website in 2025, don’t hesitate to contact me.
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