From Side Hustle to Success: How a Mom Built a Rs 5 Crore Business in Just One Year with 40 Hours a Week

Mom Turns Side Hustle into Rs 5 Cr Business in Just 1 Year

Source: Business Today

Introduction

Alexandra Rutkay, a makeup artist from New York, faced a common dilemma for moms: balancing practicality with style. Her journey led to the creation of Citymouse, a brand of chic, functional diaper bags that has generated significant revenue in a short time.

Inspiration Behind Citymouse

The Frustrating Moment

• While dining with family, Rutkay realized her designer purse was impractical for carrying baby items.
• This frustration sparked her desire to create a stylish yet functional solution for mothers.

The Brand Launch

• Citymouse was launched in June 2022, focusing on cross-body diaper bags with adjustable straps.
• In its first year, the brand earned nearly $600,000 (over Rs 5.08 crore) through platforms like Shopify and TikTok Shop.

Personal Journey and Challenges

Health and Motivation

• In 2020, Rutkay was diagnosed with a rare cancer, which heightened her motivation to create a legacy for her son.
• Declared cancer-free in 2021, her health scare intensified her drive to secure her family’s future.

Operational Support

• Rutkay kept her venture secret from her husband initially, fearing another failed side hustle.
• As the business grew, he became her only full-time employee, aiding in logistics and customer service.

Lessons Learned from Entrepreneurship

Success Factors

• Addressing a specific need at the right time is crucial for business growth.
• Consistency and effort are fundamental to sustaining success.

Challenges and Pivoting

• Rutkay faced setbacks, including a failed attempt at selling pizza-themed baby blankets, which lost her $6,000.
• She learned the importance of understanding when to pivot and reassess business strategies.

Conclusion

Rutkay's story exemplifies how personal challenges can inspire entrepreneurial success. By identifying a market need and dedicating consistent effort, she transformed a side hustle into a thriving business while balancing the demands of motherhood and her professional life.