Can I create a branded email address for my client's site hosted on Webflow? If not, what is an alternative solution?
TL;DR
- Choose a third-party email provider (like Google Workspace or Zoho Mail) to create a branded email address.
- Update the domain’s DNS settings at your registrar with MX and verification records provided by the email host, since Webflow does not handle email hosting.
You cannot create a branded email address directly through Webflow, as Webflow doesn’t offer email hosting. However, you can easily set one up using third-party email providers.
1. Understand What "Branded Email" Means
- A branded email looks like you@yourdomain.com instead of a generic Gmail or Yahoo address.
- This builds credibility and maintains brand consistency for your client.
2. Choose an Email Hosting Provider
Use a dedicated email service that integrates with custom domains. Common options include:
- Google Workspace (Gmail) – Industry standard, includes Docs, Drive, Meet, etc.
- Microsoft 365 (Outlook) – Includes Office apps and Outlook-based email.
- Zoho Mail – More affordable and privacy-focused.
- Namecheap, Bluehost, or GoDaddy – If the domain was registered there, email hosting might be bundled or optional.
3. Update DNS Settings in Domain Registrar
After choosing a provider, you need to set up MX (Mail Exchange) records in the client’s domain DNS settings:
- Go to your domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap).
- Find DNS settings and locate where you can add/edit MX records.
- Enter the MX records provided by the email hosting service.
- Webflow does not manage emails or MX records, so all updates must be made at the registrar.
4. Verify Setup with Email Provider
- Your email provider will have a domain verification step using TXT or CNAME records.
- This helps confirm you own the domain and prevents spoofing.
- It ensures email delivery works correctly and avoids spam filters.
5. Use with Webflow-Hosted Websites
- You can still host the website on Webflow and use a third-party email host.
- Webflow only requires A and CNAME records, and won’t interfere with MX records for email.
Summary
While you can’t create branded email addresses on Webflow, you can set them up using third-party providers like Google Workspace or Zoho Mail, and manage DNS settings via the domain registrar. Webflow-hosted sites work seamlessly with these external email services.