Before You Begin

Make sure you have at least one list with subscribers. If you haven't created a list yet, start with How to Create a Mailing List.

Your MailPoet sending service is already configured - you don't need to worry about SMTP settings, sending limits, or authentication. Just compose and send.

Step 1: Start a New Email

1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to MailPoet > Emails
2. Click "+ New Email"
3. Select "Newsletter" from the campaign types

Step 2: Choose a Template

MailPoet offers a library of pre-designed templates. Pick one that fits your message, or start from a blank canvas. Don't overthink it - you can customize everything in the next step.

Step 3: Design Your Newsletter

The drag-and-drop editor makes this straightforward:

• Text - Click any text block to edit it. Change fonts, sizes, colors, and alignment.
• Images - Drag an image block in and upload your photo, or pick from your media library.
• Buttons - Add call-to-action buttons with custom text and links.
• Columns - Arrange content side by side.
• Dividers, spacers, social icons - Fine-tune the layout.

Your work is auto-saved as a draft, so you won't lose anything if you step away.

Replacing template content and adding images

Most templates load with placeholder blocks - things like a grey "logo" box at the top and headings that say "Let's Get Started!" These aren't locked; they're there so you can replace them with your own content.

Editing placeholder text

1. Click anywhere on the text you want to change
2. A formatting toolbar appears above the block with options for Paragraph style, Bold, Italic, text color, links, alignment, and lists
3. Select the placeholder text and type your own - it replaces as you type

Replacing an existing image

1. Click the image placeholder (e.g. the "logo" box, or any image already in the template)
2. The right sidebar switches to show IMAGE settings
3. Click Select another image

The Add images dialog opens. You have two options:

• Upload files - drag an image from your computer onto the drop zone, or click Select Files to browse.
• Media Library - click this tab to pick an image you've already uploaded to your site.

Once you pick an image, the dialog closes and your image replaces the placeholder. Use the right sidebar to adjust alignment, width, or add a link that the image will click through to.

Adding a brand new image block

If you want an image somewhere there isn't already a placeholder, look at the CONTENT panel on the right sidebar. You'll see blocks for Text, Image, Button, Divider, Spacer, Social, and more. Click and drag the Image block onto your newsletter where you want it to appear. Once placed, click it and use Select another image exactly like above.

Tips for a good newsletter

• Keep it focused - one main message or topic per send
• Use a clear subject line that tells readers what to expect
• Include a call to action (a link, a button, a "reply to this email")
• Keep paragraphs short - most people scan emails on their phones

Step 4: Preview

Before sending, always preview your newsletter:

1. Click "Preview" in the top-right corner of the editor
2. Check how it looks on desktop and mobile views
3. Send a test email to yourself using "Send a preview" - enter your email address and click send

Review the test email in your inbox. Check that links work, images display correctly, and the text reads well.

Step 5: Send

1. Click "Next" to reach the send settings page
2. Choose which list(s) to send to
3. Confirm the sender name and reply-to address (these are pre-configured for your site)
4. Write your subject line if you haven't already
5. Choose to send immediately or schedule for a specific date and time
6. Click "Send"

That's it - your newsletter is on its way!

After Sending

Once your email is sent, MailPoet tracks opens, clicks, and unsubscribes. You can view these stats by going to MailPoet > Emails and clicking on your sent newsletter.

One Important Note: CAN-SPAM Compliance

By law, marketing emails must include your physical mailing address. MailPoet adds this automatically in the email footer. Make sure your address is set correctly under MailPoet > Settings > Basics. If you're unsure, contact us and we'll verify it for you.

Questions? Contact us at support [at] webops [dot] host or submit a support ticket. Our team is available 9am-5pm, 7 days a week (24/7 for emergencies).