Business Ideas for Stay-At-Home Moms
The best fit for your stay-at-home mom business will depend on what you like to do, what you're good at, and what resources you have available.
Whether you're crafty, tech-savvy, love helping others learn, or have a knack for selling products, there's a type of business that can work for you.
It's all about finding that sweet spot where your interests, skills, and opportunities meet.
So, as we explore these options, think about which ones feel right for you and how you might use your unique talents and circumstances to build something amazing from the comfort of your home.
Finally, you might kick things off as a solopreneur and scale your self-employment into business whenever you have resources for that.
Also, make sure you go through the important training about finding your niche I mention in this post.
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7 Key Questions to Answer Before You Start a Business as a Sahm
#1. Why do you need the money?
Starting your own business is a big adventure, and it's super important to know why you're doing it. What's your big dream?
Do you want to buy a bigger house for your family? Would you like to start a retirement fund or save money for your kids' education?
Sometimes, you might think about giving up. That's why it's really helpful to keep your goals in sight.
Write your goals down on a piece of paper and hang it up where you work. This way, when things get hard, you can look at your goals and remember why you started in the first place.
Even better, make a vision board with all your dreams and goals on it. Look at it every day and think about how it makes you feel.
This can be a fun and powerful way to stay focused and excited about your business.
Keeping your dreams right in front of you helps you stick with it, even when the going gets tough!
#2. How much time can you dedicate to your business?
Do you have a few hours to spare when your kids are in a preschool or at school?
Maybe your partner can help out by taking over bedtime routines so you can focus on your project.
Or perhaps your parents could watch the kids over the weekends for the next several months.
If you're always with your kids and can't get much help from others, you might find yourself only able to work on your business late at night. While starting like this might seem okay, it's tough to keep going that way for long. Trust me on this.
Starting and growing a successful business takes a lot of energy and effort, especially in the beginning. You'll need to find a good chunk of time to dive into it if you want to make it work.
#3. What are your financial resources?
Starting a business also means thinking about the money side of things.
Do you have some savings set aside to get your business off the ground?
Maybe your partner can chip in financially, or you could ask family or friends for a loan.
Another option is to look into grants specifically for women in business, although applying for these can take time and effort.
It's also important to consider how much your family needs extra income right now. If you're in a rush to make money, jumping straight into starting a business might not be the best move. It usually takes a while before a new business starts making money.
A smarter approach might be to find a remote job that brings in income right away. Then, once you're more financially stable, you can dive into your business ideas.
#4. Do you have a unique set of skills?
When thinking about starting your own business, it's really helpful to have some skills that can give you a head start, like marketing, crafting, or product development. But what if you're not sure you have those skills yet?
The first step is to find a niche that excites you or something you're passionate about—and make sure it's something that will keep your interest for years to come.
For a business to succeed, you're going to need to learn a lot of new things, and it's way easier if you're working in a field you love.
If you're a mom with young kids, you might be all into products for kids right now—like the coolest toys, the best books, and how to make healthy snacks. But remember, as your kids grow, what you're interested in will probably change too.
Try to think about what you loved before becoming a mom or even what you dreamed about doing when you were younger.
Those long-term interests are a great place to look for business ideas because they're likely to keep you motivated over the long haul.
#5. What is your qualification?
Do you have a degree or certification in the field you're interested in?
Having a degree can help out at the beginning. It can give you some important credentials and help you establish yourself as an expert in your area.
This can make a big difference in how potential customers or clients see you.
If you're seen as someone with expertise and the right qualifications, it can boost your credibility and help your business get off to a strong start.
#6. What type of business fits you best?
Do you see yourself running an online business, having a brick-and-mortar shop, offering consulting services, selling physical products, or maybe even becoming a public figure?
Each path requires different skills and a unique business process.
If you're a stay-at-home mom, an online business might be particularly appealing because you can manage it from your laptop or even just your phone, fitting work around your family life.
But then, there's the question of your personality. If you're more of an introvert who prefers to keep to yourself rather than being in the spotlight or dealing with people all day, consulting or becoming a public persona might not feel right.
Selling physical products online could be a great fit instead.
On the flip side, if you're an extrovert with great communication skills and specialized knowledge, you could shine in consulting, starting your agency, or even becoming an influencer.
However, I'd advise against turning into a family vlogger or an Instagram momfluencer showing off your kids. Beyond privacy issues, it could also negatively affect your children's mental health. Read more in the NY Times Instagram investigation.
It's crucial to weigh these factors carefully before deciding on the type of business that's right for you.
#7. Do you have a network?
Think about whether you can tap into your network to land your first few clients.
Maybe you can offer them a deal, help for free, or charge a minimal fee. Getting those initial clients is not just about the money.
It's a great way to build up your credentials and gather testimonials from people you've worked with.
These references can be super helpful when trying to attract new customers.
Plus, having positive feedback from your first clients can boost your confidence. It shows that you're on the right track and that people value your work.
This early support can be a big deal for both your business's growth and how you feel about your new venture.
Create a list of your advantages and pain points
You may want to list your advantages, like skills, qualifications, or networks. But not only put it into a list but add a detailed description for each item on how they can benefit your business in your situation and how you can use them.
Then, list the issues that must be solved now or in the future that prevent you from working on your project. This could be the lack of free time, finances, skills, or business ideas. You’ll have to come up with at least three different ideas for overcoming these issues that stop you.
For example:
- You can learn many new skills through courses and boot camps that will teach you in a record time.
- If you lack financial support, I provide a list of organizations that help women start and grow their businesses further down in the article.
- Are you a full-time stay-at-home mom with kids not in daycare? First off, give yourself a huge pat on the back. Recent studies have pointed out that long daycare hours can have negative effects on kids under three. You can check out more on this topic here.
How to Find Time to Work on a Business as a SAHM
Getting help from grandparents, other family members, or a reliable babysitter is one of the top solutions, though I get that it's not always doable.
Another creative option is to set up a babysitting swap with a mom buddy. Maybe she takes your kiddos for a few hours on Monday and Tuesday, and you return the favor on Wednesday and Thursday. This way, you'll snag some valuable, productive time for your business instead of trying to squeeze work into late-night hours or those precious few minutes of nap time.
If you want to combine daycare and staying with the kids at home, Dr. Komisar has a simple rule of thumb: match daycare hours to your child's age. Two years old? Two hours a day. Three years old? Three hours a day. Consistency matters here. It's better to opt for a few hours of daycare daily than a full day a couple of times a week.
And hey, once your little ones hit preschool age, you'll find yourself with more free time to really dive into your business.
Remember, days with the kids are long, but the years fly by. Before you know it, you'll have all the time you need to grow your business
Online Stay at Home Business Ideas for Moms
E-commerce - Best Business Ideas for Stay at Home Moms
1. Craft Business Ideas for Stay at Home Moms
Selling handmade goods such as jewelry, home decor, or personalized gifts is perfect for creatives who enjoy making unique items. Platforms like Etsy are ideal for arts and crafts sellers, offering a direct path to consumers who appreciate handmade quality.
You can use a straightforward Etsy advertising platform to promote your products and use social media, particularly visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to reach new customers.
In a larger perspective, Etsy is a great platform to start building your brand. When you and your products are well-known and trusted, you can get orders directly on your website utilizing the brand traffic that you initially generated through Etsy.
From what I've seen, wooden crafts are a hot commodity on Etsy.
Crafting wooden toys could be an awesome chance for you to blend your entrepreneurial spirit with your life as a stay-at-home mom. But what if you're totally new to woodworking?
No worries—I've got you covered with a link to an amazing course that'll walk you through everything, step by step.
You'll be equipped with all the know-how you need to start cranking out your own unique crafts in no time! Learn how to get Into woodworking with no experience here.
2. Private Label Business for Stay At Home Moms
This kind of business really took off between 2013 and 2018. Thousands of sellers jumped into the Amazon marketplace with their private label products because it was super affordable to start and grow their businesses back then.
These days, launching your own brand with customized products is definitely doable, but it's going to cost you a decent chunk of change in marketing and advertising to get noticed.
Yet, you can still find success in this field if you're smart about sourcing the right products from the right suppliers.
Back in the day, folks would hit up Chinese manufacturers via sites like Alibaba or Taobao, snag a few samples, and hammer out a deal with the most promising supplier.
But now, Amazon's swamped with sellers peddling generic items straight from those factories, and trying to compete on price alone with the same stuff just doesn't cut it.
However, if you manage to find a reliable supplier from a different source, you can still rake in some solid cash by slapping your own labels on quality products and selling them under your brand on Amazon.
And don't forget about Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon)—it's a super handy service that takes care of storage, packing, and shipping for your private label products.
Create an Amazon Business account today - Click Here.
3. Merchandise and Print-on-Demand
This business model works wonderfully for influencers, event planners, or enthusiasts of specific interests. You can design and sell products such as t-shirts, mugs, and stickers.
Platforms like Teespring, Redbubble, Printful, or Gelato make it easy for you to get your merchandise out there without the hassle of managing stock, since they handle the printing and shipping on demand.
It's important to note, though, that selling officially branded merchandise requires obtaining the appropriate licenses, and launching your own line might pose challenges, especially in terms of the advertising budget needed to promote your products on Amazon or through your Shopify store.
Unless you're dealing with massively popular brands like Disney, be prepared to put some funds into marketing and advertising to capture the attention of potential buyers.
However, as mentioned before, if you've already built up a following on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, that's a great place to start.
You might even consider engaging your audience with a poll to see what kind of merchandise they'd be interested in buying from you. This approach can not only validate your ideas but also strengthen your connection with your followers.
4. Distribution
The big perk of this kind of business is you can save a ton on marketing because you're dealing with products that are already popular and in demand.
Snagging the rights to sell hot-ticket items in your area can be a goldmine. I mean, imagine locking down a distribution deal with Lego in the US—that could easily make you a millionaire.
But, you've got to be ready to shell out some serious cash upfront for inventory and other costs.
However, finding a small niche with dedicated fans, (for example, Waldorf toys or open-ended play materials) and becoming the go-to distributor for sought-after products could set you up big time.
Just remember, you'll need some startup cash. But the beauty is, with smaller niche brands, you won't be facing the hefty costs you would with bigger names.
Bottom line: It's way smarter to build a dedicated audience first, focusing on folks with specific interests. Then, hit them with products they're dying to get their hands on.
5. Online Retailing Business for Moms
Selling stuff online through platforms like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon can be a real moneymaker. You might be dealing in handmade goods, vintage treasures, or even dropshipping products.
What's cool about this route is the flexibility it gives you in both what you sell and how you source your items.
Take dropshipping as an example—it lets you sell stuff without ever having to keep a stockpile since your suppliers send the products straight to your buyers.
To get your ecommerce store up and running quickly, I highly recommend checking out this awesome website. It gives you access to high-quality suppliers, saving you a ton of time on browsing and research. Click here to know more.
Like I always say, it's all about zeroing in on your niche—check out that "find your niche" training I pointed out before. Once you've nailed that down, you can start building up a portfolio of products to sell across different channels or even from your own website.
6. Subscription Box Service
Having a recurring income business is one of the most solid and reliable business models you can find. Putting together and shipping out boxes full of themed goodies to your subscribers on a regular basis, like every month or quarter, can really cut down on your marketing costs and provide you with a steady and predictable income—a dream for many.
The magic of a subscription box service is all in the excitement and joy of unboxing. Each delivery brings a fresh surprise, whether it's beauty products, gourmet treats, books, crafts, or eco-friendly finds.
The secret sauce to rocking this business is really getting to know your target audience and packing each box with both value and variety.
You'll need to get a handle on everything from picking the right products to boxing them up and getting them shipped out. Using social media to show off those unboxing moments, teaming up with influencers, and hooking new subscribers with discounts can really ramp up your reach.
For stay-at-home moms, this gig is perfect—it lets you flex those creative muscles and work on your own time, making it a super rewarding and adaptable hustle.
7. Books or cartoons for kids
Let me tell you, with today's AI technology, you can whip up illustrated books, cartoons, or even short films—and not just for kids, either. Sure, there's a bit of a learning curve with these tools, but once you get the hang of it, the sky's the limit.
You can self-publish your books on Amazon or drop your videos on YouTube and start raking in cash from views. What's awesome about this kind of gig is the way earnings stack up over time. The content you put out there today could still be padding your wallet five years down the road.
Digital Services - Side Business for Stay at Home Moms
Here are some freelancing ideas that could eventually blossom into a full-blown business. Start by lending a hand with your skills, and once you rack up enough experience and glowing reviews, you could scale up to a legit consultancy business, and launch your agency.
Social Media Management
Managing social media for small businesses includes creating posts, running ads, and engaging with the community. Ideal for those who are social media savvy and understand how to grow an online presence.
Moreover, you can start making money by whipping up what's known as User-Generated Content. This means creating sponsored content that looks and feels real authentic, but it's actually crafted to highlight a specific business or product. All you need to know about creating UGC is here.
Virtual Interior Designer
Offering interior design services remotely, helping clients visualize and execute design projects without being on-site. Great for those with a flair for design and the ability to use design software.
Check out this amazing tool that you might even want to use for yourself. It lets you redesign interiors, landscapes, or gardens in just 30 seconds! Click here.
HR Consultancy
For those with a background in HR, providing consultancy services can be a fulfilling option. This could include helping moms re-enter the workforce or advising companies on family-friendly policies.
Financial Planning
Offering financial advice and planning services to individuals and businesses. This requires a good understanding of finance and possibly certifications but can be very rewarding and done entirely online.
Freelance Writing
Writing for blogs, magazines, and businesses in areas like copywriting, technical writing, or content marketing. This is perfect for those with a writing talent and can be very lucrative with specialization.
Here's everything you need to start making money quickly as a freelance writer. Learn more
Virtual Assistant Services
Providing remote administrative, technical, or creative assistance. Tasks can range from email management to bookkeeping. This role is great for organized individuals who are good at multitasking. Learn more hot to become a virtual assistant here.
Graphic Design
Offering design services for digital and print media. This is a field with broad demand, from corporate branding to personal projects, and suits those with creative design skills.
Photography
While it may require leaving home for shoots, photography allows for remote editing and sales. Specializations like family portraits, events, or stock photography can open up lucrative opportunities. If you want to learn how to earn money from photography, check out this network!
Web Development
Developing websites for businesses and individuals. This high-demand skill set is ideal for those with technical expertise in web design and development.
Content Creation - A Go-To Business for a Stay-At-Home Mom
1. Influencer Marketing
This business model includes building a personal brand on social media platforms to influence followers' purchasing decisions.
After you gain some followers, you'll have an opportunity to collaborate with brands to promote products or services to your audience.
Success in influencer marketing requires a strong, engaged following and a clear niche, such as fashion, fitness, or parenting.
Monetization comes from sponsored posts, brand partnerships, and affiliate marketing. Consistency, authenticity, and engagement are key to growing as an influencer.
2. Expert Influencer
Unlike general influencers, expert influencers leverage their specialized knowledge to attract a following. This could be in areas like personal finance, business coaching, or health and wellness.
Monetization strategies include consulting services, speaking engagements, workshops, and creating paid content like courses or webinars. Building credibility through content, such as blog posts, podcasts, or YouTube videos, is essential.
If you're thinking about becoming an influencer, here's a tip: pick platforms where your content has a longer shelf life.
Writing blogs or creating YouTube videos is great because new folks can stumble upon your work years down the line, especially if you nail your SEO and have some evergreen affiliate links.
But, with places like Instagram or TikTok, you've gotta keep churning out fresh content daily since old posts pretty much lose their steam right away.
3. Blogging or Vlogging
This avenue allows for great flexibility in content creation, focusing on areas you're passionate about or have expertise in.
Monetization can be achieved through various channels, including advertising revenue, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and selling digital or physical products.
For those uncomfortable with being on camera, AI technology offers solutions like voice changers and virtual avatars to maintain privacy while still engaging with an audience.
4. Self-Publishing
Self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) have made it easier than ever to publish your work and reach a global audience.
This model suits a wide range of content creators, including novelists, non-fiction writers, and creators of instructional guides.
Each of these content creation and blogging opportunities allows for a high degree of creativity and independence. However, most likely it will take years to build a decent-size audience to earn from advertising.
Educational Services and Tutoring - Ways for Moms to Make Money
Online Courses and Workshops
This model allows educators and experts to package their knowledge into comprehensive courses that can be sold globally. Platforms like Teachable, Udemy, and Coursera provide the infrastructure to host and market these courses. Topics can range from academic subjects to life skills, technology, arts, and personal development. Success requires high-quality content, effective marketing, and engaging course materials. Additional income can be generated through upselling, memberships, or offering personalized coaching alongside courses.
Online Tutoring or Teaching
With the rise of remote learning, there's a growing demand for online tutors in areas such as languages, mathematics, science, and music. Platforms like VIPKid, Tutor.com, and Wyzant can connect tutors with students globally. Success in online tutoring depends on your expertise, teaching ability, and the ability to engage students in a virtual environment. Personal branding and word-of-mouth referrals can significantly boost your visibility and attract more students.
Homework Help and Academic Support
his can involve setting up a platform where students can ask academic questions and get answers or explanations from qualified tutors. It's particularly appealing to parents looking for additional support for their children's education. Establishing credibility and trust is crucial, as is ensuring that tutors are well-qualified in their subject areas.
Test Prep Services
This niche requires a deep understanding of the tests' formats and what students need to succeed. Offering personalized study plans, practice tests, and strategies for tackling exam questions can help students improve their scores. Marketing success stories and testimonials can greatly enhance credibility and attract new students.
Special Needs Education
This area requires specialized knowledge and a compassionate approach to teaching. Providing personalized learning materials, one-on-one tutoring, and support for parents can make a significant difference in students' lives. Collaborating with schools and special education professionals can also open up additional opportunities.
Career Coaching and Professional Development
With the job market constantly evolving, there's a demand for career coaching services. This can range from helping recent graduates find their first job to assisting experienced professionals with career transitions. Offering workshops, one-on-one coaching, and online resources can cater to a wide audience.
Health and Wellness Services
Fitness Coaching
As a fitness coach, you can provide personalized workout plans and motivate clients to reach their fitness objectives.
You will be their guide, setting up schedules and monitoring their progress.
Your services can be diverse, ranging from virtual workout sessions to creating tailored exercise routines your clients can follow on their own.
• Virtual Personal Training: Conduct one-on-one or group fitness sessions online.
• Custom Workout Plans: Design exercise routines tailored to individual needs and fitness levels.
Nutritional Planning
Your expertise in nutrition can help clients create diet plans that nourish their bodies and promote overall health. This involves assessing clients' dietary needs and developing meal plans that align with their health objectives.
Ensure you're knowledgeable about dietary requirements and food's nutritional value. Your services could include:
• Personalized Meal Planning: Develop weekly or monthly meal plans based on dietary goals and restrictions.
• Healthy Eating Guides: Offer guidelines and educational content about balanced diets and proper nutrition.
Remember, the key is to combine your passion for wellness with the needs of your clients to create a service that is both helpful and profitable.
Local Business Ideas for Stay-At-Home Moms
Unlike online businesses, local businesses will require from time to time your physical presence on site and therefore some type of childcare for your kids. It may not be ideal for SAHM, but is a viable option if your kids are in school or you have family to help with babysitting.
Personal Chef Service
Description: Providing meal preparation services for busy families or individuals, focusing on creating meals that can be easily reheated.
Expansion: Tailor your service by offering weekly meal plans, dietary-specific menus (e.g., gluten-free, vegan), or special occasion catering. Building a clientele through word-of-mouth, local advertising, and social media can help grow your business. This is a great option for those with culinary skills looking for a flexible schedule.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Description: Offering pet care services, including pet sitting in the owner's home or dog walking.
Expansion: This business is perfect for animal enthusiasts and can be expanded to include additional services like pet grooming or pet taxi services. Utilizing social media for cute photos of your furry clients and networking with local veterinarians and pet stores can help attract new customers.
Event Planning
Description: Coordinating and managing events ranging from children’s parties to corporate events.
Expansion: Specializing in a niche, such as weddings, birthday parties, or business retreats, can help set your business apart. Strong organizational skills, creativity, and a network of suppliers (caterers, venues, entertainers) are crucial for success. Offering exceptional experiences will generate referrals and repeat business.
Photography
Description: Providing photography services, with specializations such as family portraits, newborn photography, or product photography for businesses.
Expansion: Building a portfolio and offering packages for different budgets and occasions can cater to a wide range of clients. Networking with event planners, and local businesses, and utilizing social media to showcase your work are effective ways to attract new clients.
Childcare Services
Description: Running a childcare service from your home, offering a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Expansion: Beyond standard childcare, consider offering specialized programs like early childhood education, language immersion, or afterschool care with transportation to activities. Compliance with local licensing and regulations is key, as is creating a welcoming, child-friendly space.
Personal Shopper
Description: Assisting clients with their shopping needs, from groceries to clothing, based on their preferences, needs, and budget.
Expansion: This service can appeal to busy professionals, elderly clients, or individuals who dislike shopping. Establishing trust and understanding clients' tastes is essential. Expanding services to include online shopping assistance, gift buying, and even wardrobe consultations can broaden your client base.
Home-Based Baking or Catering Business
Description: Preparing and selling baked goods, meals, or catering for small events from your home kitchen.
Expansion: Specialize in niche markets like gluten-free, vegan, or organic options to stand out. Building a strong local presence through farmers' markets, local events, and social media can help attract customers. Offering custom orders for events like birthdays and weddings can also expand your customer base.
Craft and Handmade Goods for Tourists
Description: Creating and selling quality handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, or home decor items.
Expansion: Utilize online platforms like Etsy and local craft fairs to sell your products. Especially if you're in a tourist hotspot, your locally handmade crafts could really take off with visitors. Social media platforms can be powerful tools for showcasing your creations and attracting a following.
Gardening and Landscape Design Services
Description: Offering gardening, landscape design, and maintenance services to local homeowners.
Expansion: Specializing in specific areas like edible gardens, native plants, or drought-tolerant landscaping can cater to niche markets. Providing consultations and maintenance plans can offer ongoing revenue opportunities. Partnering with local nurseries or home improvement stores can help in networking and sourcing materials.
Fitness Trainer or Yoga Instructor
Description: Conducting fitness classes, personal training sessions, or yoga classes from home or at clients' locations.
Expansion: Offering virtual sessions can extend your reach beyond local clients. Specializing in areas like prenatal/postnatal fitness, senior fitness, or children's yoga can help target specific client groups. Building an online presence through workout videos or fitness blogs can also attract clients.
Home Organization Consultant
Description: Providing home organization and decluttering services to help clients manage their spaces more efficiently.
Expansion: Specializing in areas like closet organization, garage makeovers, or paper management can appeal to specific needs. Offering workshops or virtual consultations can broaden your service offerings. Before-and-after photos shared on social media can showcase your work and attract new clients.
Local Tour Guide
Description: Offering guided tours in your local area, focusing on history, architecture, nature, or culinary experiences.
Expansion: Creating unique and engaging tour experiences can attract both locals and tourists. Partnering with local businesses for exclusive experiences can add value to your tours. Marketing through travel sites, local hotels, and social media can help reach potential customers.
Art Classes for Kids and Adults
Description: Hosting art classes or workshops from your home or in a rented space, catering to children and adults.
Expansion: Offering specialized classes, such as pottery, painting, or digital art, can cater to varied interests. Partnering with local schools or community centers can help reach a wider audience. Creating art kits for at-home projects can also generate additional income.
Hairdressing Salon
Description: Offering hair cutting, styling, coloring, and treatment services.
Expansion: To differentiate your salon, consider specializing in specific styles or treatments, such as organic hair care, extensions, or barber services for men. Building a strong brand, providing exceptional customer service, and staying abreast of industry trends can help attract and retain clients. Hosting styling workshops or events can also enhance customer engagement.
Manicure and Pedicure Services
Description: Providing professional nail care, including manicures, pedicures, nail art, and enhancements.
Expansion: Offering a range of services from basic care to luxury spa treatments and nail art can cater to diverse client preferences. Ensuring a relaxing atmosphere, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and using quality products will contribute to your business's reputation. Membership packages or loyalty programs can encourage repeat business.
Brow and Lash Services
Description: Specializing in eyebrow shaping, tinting, lash extensions, and lifting services.
Expansion: This niche market has grown significantly, with clients seeking professional help for their brow and lash needs. Offering personalized consultations to achieve the desired look, along with additional services like microblading or lash tinting, can increase client satisfaction. Marketing through before-and-after photos and client testimonials can effectively attract new customers.
Mobile Beauty Services
Description: Offering beauty services like makeup, hair styling, or nail care at the client's location.
Expansion: This business model appeals to clients seeking convenience, such as for weddings, and events, or those unable to visit a salon. Developing a comprehensive service menu, creating attractive packages for special occasions, and maintaining a high level of professionalism can lead to success. Social media and a strong online portfolio are essential for showcasing your work and attracting clients.
How to Find Your Business Niche as a Stay-At-Home Mom
This is one of the most important decisions you can make for your business. I recommend you go through this 100% free course from one of the best digital marketers in the world.
The 3 Core Skills You Need to Nail Any Business for SAHM
#1 Copywriting Skills
Every biz needs a little buzz to get the word out. Nowadays, most advertising is online since it's both affordable and quick to set up. Learning to create killer ads that pop in a sea of competition is crucial.
Here's a list of some awesome books that'll teach you how to craft killer copy for your SAHM business:
1. "Ogilvy on Advertising"
David Ogilvy is often hailed as "The Father of Advertising." His insights and principles on creating effective advertising campaigns and writing compelling copy have shaped the marketing world. Ogilvy's classic, "Ogilvy on Advertising," delves into the art and science of advertising, offering timeless wisdom that continues to guide marketers and advertisers.
2. "Cashvertising"
"CA$HVERTISING" by Drew Eric Whitman dives deep into consumer psychology and the triggers that compel people to buy. This book breaks down the secrets of successful ads and sales strategies, offering practical tips on how to apply these techniques to boost your marketing efforts.
3. "How to Write a Good Advertisement"
Victor Schwab is a legendary copywriter known for his ability to sell through the written word. His book, "How to Write a Good Advertisement," is a treasure trove of copywriting insights, showcasing the importance of headlines, persuasive writing, and understanding human psychology in crafting ads that convert.
4. "Breakthrough Advertising"
"Breakthrough Advertising" by Eugene Schwartz is considered a masterpiece in the marketing and advertising field. Schwartz's exploration of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and the power of persuasion has made this book a must-read for anyone serious about mastering the art of advertising.
5. "The Ultimate Sales Letter"
Dan Kennedy's "The Ultimate Sales Letter" is the go-to guide for crafting effective sales letters that grab attention and generate results. Kennedy offers a step-by-step approach to writing letters that can sell any product or service, emphasizing the importance of understanding your audience and delivering value.
Each of these authors and their works provide invaluable insights into the world of marketing and copywriting. From understanding consumer psychology to mastering the art of persuasion, these classics offer lessons that are as relevant today as they were when first published, which is why they've become all-time classics in copywriting.
#2 Basic Marketing Skills
Figuring out how to break down your ad campaigns, launch new products, and understand your audience is key. Whether you're selling handmade toys on Etsy or running a daycare from your living room, to really rake in some serious cash, you gotta know how to promote your stuff. A solid grasp of digital marketing basics can be a game-changer.
If you're brand new to marketing and don't know where to start, I'd recommend checking out the Google Digital Marketing Specialization on Coursera. It's not just about learning the essentials and the lingo; you'll also snag a specialization that boosts your credibility and looks great on your LinkedIn profile.
#3. Page-Building Skills
In today's world, a website is like your business's online home. It's the piece of the internet you own and control. Whether it's for your online store, a blog, or just a simple landing page, getting comfortable with web management is a must.
You might not need a website from day one, but trust me, getting customers onto your site sooner rather than later is a smart move. Directly reaching out to customers via email, rather than going through marketplaces like Etsy, Amazon, or Upwork, helps build direct relationships with your clientele.
Plus, a website filled with glowing testimonials can really boost your brand's credibility and give you an edge that third-party platforms just can't match.
I've got to say, I'm a big fan of Thrive Themes for anyone looking to get their first website or even just a landing page up and running in less than an hour. Plus, they've got this awesome resource called Thrive University that'll walk you through the whole process, no sweat.
Leverage Your Monthly Increase in Work Productivity!
Alright, we're diving into a topic here that doesn't get enough airtime. Let me be clear—I'm not trying to sound sexist, but I believe it's important for women to understand how their work productivity can shift throughout the month.
There's this enlightening book, "In the Flo," that talks about how a woman's cycle impacts her energy levels and stress tolerance.
This knowledge can be a game-changer in working more efficiently, especially when big business decisions are on the line.
It's crucial for every woman to grasp how the monthly hormonal fluctuations can influence her work performance, decision-making, and people skills. By aligning with your energy levels, you can hit your business targets way more efficiently, with a lot less stress and effort.
Let me give you a quick rundown of the menstrual cycle phases and how planning your work with these in mind can boost your productivity. Since I'm drawing from "In the Flo," I'll stick to the phase descriptions as laid out by the book's author.
- Follicular Phase: starts right after your previous menses have finished. This phase lasts 7 to 10 days. During this phase, the rise of estrogen helps you to deal with challenging mental tasks like solving problems or making plans and building strategies. That is why this is the best time to start your business.
- Ovulatory Phase: lasts for 3-4 days and is perfect for networking, looking for new clients, and having important presentations. In this phase, your energy level and mental sharpness are at the top, so you can get a big load of work done with less effort.
- Luteal Phase: lasts for 10-14 days. In this phase, you might feel exhausted from interactions with other people, but you’ll feel great satisfaction in finalizing your work tasks, that you didn’t get through before, like review documents, marketing campaigns, or financial reports.
- Menstrual phase: lasts 3-7 days. At this time you’ll feel the natural desire to analyze and reassess your business goals and achievements. Here, you can evaluate your work, what should and shouldn’t be done, and correct your plans accordingly. You may also feel a bit more drained during this phase, so you may want to take more breaks for rest.
I highly suggest checking out this book to get the lowdown on managing your life with your hormonal changes in mind. Plus, it's got some cool biohacking tips to kick your work productivity up a notch.
RELATED: Mindfulness for Moms: How to Find Your Zen in Daily Chaos
Ways to Fund a Business for Stay At Home Moms
As we said earlier, the easiest way to start your business is to seek financial help from your family and friends. However, there are several programs, both governmental and private, designed to help women start and grow their businesses by providing resources, training, mentorship, and sometimes financial assistance.
IFundWomen Universal Grant Database: IFundWomen offers a searchable database of grants for women entrepreneurs, including those aimed at education and training in various aspects of business ownership and management.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Women’s Business Centers (WBCs): Located throughout the United States, WBCs help women start, grow, and expand their businesses by offering one-on-one counseling, training, networking, workshops, technical assistance, and mentorship.
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO): NAWBO is a dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries. It offers networking, resources, and support to help women grow their businesses.
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC): WBENC provides business development opportunities for women-owned businesses, including certification for women-owned businesses, which can open doors to corporate contracts.
SCORE: While not exclusively for women, SCORE offers free business mentoring and education to all entrepreneurs. They also have special resources and workshops focused on the challenges and opportunities unique to women in business.
Tory Burch Foundation: The Tory Burch Foundation provides access to capital, education, and digital resources for women entrepreneurs. The Foundation’s Fellows Program offers grants, mentorship, and a community of support.
Amber Grant for Women: The Amber Grant Foundation awards a monthly grant of $10,000 to a woman-owned business, with one of the monthly winners receiving an additional $25,000 at the end of the year. It’s designed to help female entrepreneurs start small businesses.
Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant Program: This program supports women-owned companies committed to environmental and social change. It offers grants to businesses that are beyond the startup phase.
DreamBuilder Program: Offered in partnership with Freeport-McMoRan Foundation and Thunderbird School of Global Management, DreamBuilder provides online education for women interested in starting or growing their own businesses.
SheEO: A global community of women who support, finance, and celebrate female entrepreneurs. SheEO provides interest-free loans, mentorship, and a support network for women-led ventures.
Cartier Women's Initiative: Beyond the financial grant, the Cartier Women's Initiative offers a range of educational workshops, one-on-one coaching, and business management and social entrepreneurship training to its awardees.
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women: This is a global initiative that provides women entrepreneurs with business and management education, mentoring and networking opportunities, and access to capital. It's designed to help women grow their businesses through education.
Halstead Grant: Specifically for women in the jewelry industry, the Halstead Grant not only offers financial support but also includes business training and feedback from industry experts.
37 Angels Bootcamp: Although not a scholarship in the traditional sense, this program offers training specifically aimed at women investors and entrepreneurs, teaching them how to invest in early-stage startups and how to secure investment for their own ventures.
The Girlboss Foundation Grant: Awarded biannually to female entrepreneurs in the fields of design, fashion, music, and the arts, this grant includes not just financial support but also exposure and networking opportunities that can be critical for business growth.
Building Wealth Beyond Just Running a Business
Ever heard of Robert Kiyosaki's Cash Flow Quadrant? It's that concept where you evolve from being an employee to self-employed, then to owning a business, and finally landing in the investment phase. Though it's not a new idea, it still holds water today.
Cash Flow Quadrant By R. Kiyosaki
The quadrant is like a roadmap showing how you earn your dough and guiding you toward financial freedom by shifting from the left side (E and S) to the right side (B and I), where your income isn't directly tied to the hours you put in.
For stay-at-home moms (SAHMs) diving into the workforce, you might kick things off in the self-employment phase, but the real endgame should be reaching those business and investment stages.
That's your ticket to building what's affectionately known as "FU-money." Stick that goal on your vision board and dive into learning how to make your money work for you at any life stage.
There's this killer book, "The Simple Path to Wealth: Your road map to financial independence and a rich, free life," packed with tools to start investing and growing your wealth, no prior finance knowledge needed.
I hope this piece shines a light on a clear path forward for you.
Launching a business is thrilling yet incredibly tough, and tackling it as a SAHM adds another layer of complexity. Recent studies show that as your income climbs, so does your happiness, debunking the old belief that happiness plateaus once you hit around $100k a year.
From the depths of my heart, I'm rooting for you to smash your business goals and generate the kind of income that keeps you and your loved ones in high spirits for years to come. After all, happy families lead to happy individuals, and we could always use more of that in the world.