How to Create a Vanity URL for Your Microsite

August 8, 2025Samantha Hil, Vice President of Marketing, Microsite Product Manager

If you are using a microsite to search for a living kidney donor, the URL you were given is probably a mixture of letters and numbers, like https://nkr.org/TUM285.

To make the web address easier to recognize and remember, you might want something more personal to share with friends, family, or potential donors, like www.akidneyforyourname.com. This is called a vanity URL.

Creating a vanity URL is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to personalize your kidney donor search. Here’s a quick guide to help you set one up.

Step 1: Choose and Buy a Domain Name

To get a vanity URL, you’ll need to buy a domain name (like “janeneedsakidney.com”) from a domain registrar. There are many registrars, but some easy and popular ones include:

• GoDaddy
• NameCheap
• DomainsPricedRight
• Squarespace
• Domain.com

Prices usually range from $20–$30/year for a simple domain. Some registrars offer discounts for the first year or when you register for multiple years, so be sure to read the fine print.

Step 2: Set Up Domain Forwarding

After you buy your domain, you’ll need to forward it to your microsite, so that when someone types in your new vanity URL, it brings them to your existing microsite.

Each registrar has its own forwarding process. Some, like GoDaddy, make it easy and free to forward your domain. Others might charge a fee or include ads.

Here are help pages for a few registrars:

• GoDaddy – Domain Forwarding Instructions
• DomainsPricedRight – Forwarding Help
• Squarespace – Forwarding Help
• Domain.com – Forwarding Help

Step 3: Share Your Vanity URL

Once your vanity URL is set up and forwarding correctly, it’s time to start sharing it! The goal is to make it easy for people to find your story and support your journey.

Here are a few simple ways to get the word out:

• Add the new URL to your social media profiles
• Include it in emails or text messages when reaching out to friends, family, community groups, and news outlets
• Print it on flyers, business cards, or T-shirts if you’re participating in an event or fundraiser
• Mention it during conversations or presentations and encourage people to share it

A custom domain makes your site easier to remember and shows you’re committed and organized in your search for a donor. Choose something clear and easy to remember and share it as much as possible.