I have some experience, but I'm more of a back end guy, my roomate does web design and all that pretty shit for a living. What Ross said is true, you need a good host, I use 1and1, if you decide to go with them use my affiliate link (http://www.1and1.com/?k_id=14228359) so I can get paid

I would suggest planning out exactly what you want your site to do first. I ended up redesigning mine a few times, and taking way more time then I should have to get things in place. Infact they still arent where they should be, waiting on my design guy to finish his part.

If you want/need more info let me know.

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I don't do this for my family, my friends, women, accolades, pride, or ego. I do it for me and no one else, its just part of who I am.