Assistance needed :)

[hippiescreations]

I have uploaded all necessary files to presta directory on my hosting site, and it isn't recognizing .htaccess files as valid. I also created a databse (which is what the directions said to do) though I am a little lost. I understand basic concept of website building. When I run the installe I get a blank page. The hosting site does support php5 which leads me to the next question...where do I go to edit the php.ini file. I have downloaded wamp to work on the site before I go live and am at a loss as everything comes up blank. I also searched through the forum but can't find what it is that I may need.

Thanks.