Side Hustle Success: 5 Low-Cost Businesses You Could Start This Weekend

Want to spice up your income without taking on a second job? A side hustle can be a great way to earn extra cash and test out your entrepreneurial spirit. In this article, we cover five unique and easy-to-launch side hustle ideas that you could start this weekend. 

Before we get into them, however, it’s important to note that side hustle earnings count as income in the eyes of the law. Some countries allow for earnings from hobbies to go untaxed, but in many cases, you will need to declare your side hustle income. This could mean getting a tax calculator for Australians or seeing a tax accountant for Americans, but trust us when we say doing it by the books is essential. The last thing you want is to receive an audit notice when you’ve been squirrelling away undeclared income. 

With that important caveat covered, here are five low-cost business ideas you can start this weekend:

1. Online Vintage Reseller

Vintage items are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. If you have a knack for finding unique and valuable vintage pieces, consider starting an online vintage resale shop. Use platforms like Etsy or Depop to showcase your inventory and connect with vintage enthusiasts.

You could sell clothing, shoes, home goods, cookware and bakeware, collectibles, or a mix of all of the above. You can specialize in a specific decade or create a large online shop with categories catering to different decades, styles, and fashions. Keep in mind that the 90s and early 2000s are technically vintage now too!

2. Customized Gift Baskets

Create personalized gift baskets for various occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays. Offer a variety of themes and customization options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Partner with local businesses to source unique and high-quality products. You can then sell your baskets on a website, on social media, via online marketplaces, or at community events and local markets. It’s also worth seeing if the local businesses you work with will carry your business cards and promote your services. 

3. Virtual Home Staging

Help homeowners prepare their properties for sale by offering virtual home staging services. Use digital tools to create realistic 3D renderings of rooms with different furniture arrangements and decor styles. This can help potential buyers visualize the home’s potential.

4. Online Language Tutoring

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, consider offering online language tutoring services. Use platforms like Skype or Zoom to connect with students from around the world. You can specialize in teaching a specific language or offer general lessons focused on the art of language acquisition.

5. Custom Phone Cases

Create custom phone cases with unique designs, patterns, or personalized messages. You can use platforms like Printful or Redbubble to print your designs and sell them online. Phone cases tend to be the easiest to design, but as you get comfortable with these platforms, you can expand into t-shirt design, coffee mug design, and even more ambitious items like clocks and bedspreads. 

A Few Cheeky Extra Tips 

• Use Social Media to the Max: Use social media to promote your business and connect with potential clients.
• Network with Other Side Hustlers: Build relationships with other entrepreneurs and professionals in your industry.
• Set Realistic Goals: Start small and gradually scale your business as you gain experience and customers.
• Offer Excellent Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service to build a positive reputation and attract repeat business.

Starting a side hustle requires dedication and hard work. However, by choosing a low-cost business idea that aligns with your interests and skills, you can create a sustainable and profitable venture – starting this weekend!