Originally Posted by After Shock Media

Just make a thread asking for designers.
Expect to pay 300 to 800 depending on all you need. (design only)
Research the designers and ask for refferals.
Get some sort of written understanding via email or post.
Make sure they have a promised delivery date.
Make sure you have the full sized photos and such ready to go.
Expect to pay 50% up front with most designers.
Get your hosting in order ( I suggest techimedia.net)
Have your domain ready.
Start the ccbill process if you do not have your own account yet. This also will cost money.
Figure out if you will want or need an affiliate program made.
Decide if you want a CMS system.
Decide if you want a affiliate program managment script.
Decide if you will be providing hosted ad material.
Figure out how much initial ad material you want to start with.
Decide the focus of your solo site, have everything in mind.
Make sure everyone envolved is on same page as you.