🚀 Feature availability
The custom domain for referral links is available starting from the Growth plan.
Overview
By default, Growave uses a generic domain for referral links, such as:
https://refrr.app/pUzphmlxrM/62389
You can customize this by using your own domain (e.g., ref.yourshop.com) to create cleaner, branded referral links like:
https://ref.yourshop.com/pUzphmlxrM/62389
To do this, you'll need to set up a CNAME record and connect your domain in Growave.
Step 1 – Choose a custom subdomain
You cannot use your main domain (e.g., yourshop.com) because it’s already connected to Shopify. Instead, choose a subdomain such as:
ref.yourshop.comreferral.yourshop.com
Make sure the subdomain is not already in use for other services (email, landing pages, etc.).
Step 2 – Create a CNAME record
In your domain registrar or DNS provider account, follow these steps:
Go to your DNS/Nameservers management section.
Add a new record or edit an existing CNAME record.
Use the following settings:
Field | Value |
Type | CNAME |
Host / Name |
|
Points to / Target |
|
TTL | Default or any value (e.g., 3600) |
If you are using another custom domain (e.g., yourstore.com), leave the Host (or Name) field empty. If the editor does not allow you to leave the field empty, enter "@".
How to test your CNAME
Visit your new subdomain (e.g., https://ref.yourshop.com) in a browser. If you see the “Referral link expired” message, it means the CNAME is set up correctly. This message appears because the domain alone doesn’t have a specific referral link to show.
Step 3 – Add the custom domain to your Growave Referral program
Go to Growave admin → Rewards → Settings → General.
Paste your custom subdomain (e.g.,
ref.yourshop.com) in the Custom domain field.Click Save.
Once connected, all new referral links will use your custom domain.
📘 Note
After saving the custom referral domain settings, existing links may take time to reflect the change since this requires a background update on our side.
FAQ
Why does my referral link show a 404 error?
Why does my referral link show a 404 error?
A 404 error usually means your custom referral domain isn’t connected correctly.
Here are the most common reasons and how to fix them:
Cause | Solution |
You used your main Shopify domain (e.g., | Use a subdomain like |
The CNAME record wasn’t fully propagated | Wait up to 1 hour, then try visiting the link again. |
The CNAME is misconfigured | Confirm it points to |
The domain wasn’t added in Growave | Go to Rewards → Settings → General and enter the correct subdomain under Custom domain, then click Save. |
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or use the chat icon in the bottom-right corner of your admin panel. We’re here to help! 🤗