From College Dropout to Side Hustle Success: Turning $8,000 into $53,000/Month to Build Generational Wealth for My Son

College Dropout Turns Side Hustle into $53,000/Month

Source: NBC New York

Background

• Alexandra Rutkay, a full-time makeup artist, started her side hustle, Citymouse, with just $8,000.
• Citymouse designs fashionable mini-diaper bags for parents on the go.

Viral Success

• In June, while working on a movie set, Rutkay's bags went viral on social media.
• Within three days, Citymouse sold over 500 bags, generating approximately $53,000 in sales.

Current Performance

• Citymouse has achieved sales exceeding $635,000 in 2024.
• The business averages $53,000 in monthly revenue primarily through Shopify and social media referrals.

Personal Motivation and Goals

Building Generational Wealth

• Rutkay's ambition is driven by the desire to provide for her son and build generational wealth after experiencing personal losses and health challenges.
• Her goals include achieving $600,000 in annual income or potentially selling the company for $10 million.

Challenges and Growth

• Raising $5,000 on credit cards and $3,000 from personal savings to launch Citymouse.
• Spending $25,000 on Facebook ads to bolster business visibility and engagement.
• Maintaining a balance between her full-time job as a makeup artist and managing Citymouse.

Future Vision

Market Potential

• The global diaper bag market is worth an estimated $747.1 million.
• Rutkay aims to leverage her brand’s growth and solidify Citymouse’s position in the market.

Long-term Aspirations

• Achieving annual sales of over $1 million is a targeted milestone for Ruktay.
• With sustained growth, she aspires to transition fully from her makeup career to entrepreneurship.