For good examples, look at how news organizations' sites are designed. More often than not, a user will go from a news site to yours. Note the bright, positive colors. While headlines can be colorful, make your copy blocks readable. Use black type on a white or light background.
News sites use three or four columns of type and navigational tools.
Narrow columns are easy to read and use. Simple graphics allow pages to load on users' monitors quickly. If you use pictures, keep them small. Rich content can be expensive or free. Expensive content can be written in-house or outsourced to The Business Word.