How to Create an Email Newsletter with WordPress (2026)

How to Create an Email Newsletter with WordPress

An email list is the most resilient digital marketing channel you own — no algorithm changes, no platform risk. Building one from your WordPress site takes an afternoon to set up correctly.

Choose Your Email Marketing Platform

• MailPoet: WordPress-native plugin, free up to 1,000 subscribers, sends directly from your WordPress dashboard. Best for beginners.
• Mailchimp: Industry standard, free up to 500 contacts, excellent template builder and automation.
• ConvertKit: Creator-focused, powerful automation sequences, free up to 1,000 subscribers. Best for bloggers and course creators.
• Kit (formerly ConvertKit): Same platform, rebranded — excellent for visual automation workflows.

Step 1: Install and Configure Your Plugin

For Mailchimp: Install MC4WP: Mailchimp for WordPress. Connect your Mailchimp API key in the plugin settings. Create a list in Mailchimp first, then select it in the plugin.

For ConvertKit: Install ConvertKit for WordPress. Connect your API key, select your form, and configure the opt-in settings.

Step 2: Create Signup Forms

Place signup forms strategically:

• End of every blog post (highest intent)
• Header or top of sidebar
• Exit-intent popup (use sparingly)
• Dedicated landing page for lead magnets

Step 3: Create a Welcome Email

Every new subscriber should receive an automated welcome email within minutes of signing up. Introduce yourself, deliver any promised lead magnet, and set expectations for future emails.

Step 4: Plan Your Newsletter Content

Decide on frequency (weekly is common), format (curated links, original content, tutorials), and tone. SiteICO's AI tools help you draft newsletter content directly from your WordPress dashboard — batch-draft a month of newsletters in one session.