Extra holiday cash!
From creating gift baskets to helping people set up their trees, these women have found unique ways to earn extra cash while making the season merry and bright! Read on for their secrets
“I make 6 figures spreading Christmas joy all year long!”
“Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved Christmas.
In fact, when I was growing up, my mom had a room in our home that was set up for Christmas all year, complete with a tree, faux fireplace, candles, angels and nutcrackers. I wondered if there were other people who did the same, so I conducted some research and realized there was a big market of women ages 30 to 60 who often keep their Christmas trees up, leave trinkets out or use a Christmas mug throughout the year. That’s when I launched My Christmas Crate (MyChristmasCrate.com), a monthly subscription box that includes Christmas-themed items.
“To get the business off the ground, I set up a website using a template and searched for Christmas items and wholesalers to create crates. Today my boxes contain four to five items, like Christmas-scented soy candles, peppermint cake mix, picture frames and ornaments. I also offer a no-subscription option for one-time buyers.
“To get the word out, I used social media and Facebook and Instagram ads. I also sent crates to social-media influencers—people who have a big following online—who then spread the word. When a customer receives their box, they can take a picture of it, post it on social media and tag us for a chance to win a free crate.
“I started small, sending 25 boxes a month, but today I ship about 500 a month. I have two people who help me send the crates from my garage, but we’re growing, so I’m looking for outside vendors.
“I love that I can work from home and be available for my family. The money I make, a sixfigure income, covers the bills, goes back into the business and pays for extras, like a Hawaii trip!”