How a 41-Year-Old Nurse Turned a $40 Etsy Investment into a $9,800 Monthly Income Without a Full-Time Job
Megan Walsh's Successful Etsy Side Hustle
Source: CNBC
Overview
Megan Walsh, a part-time nurse, transformed her experience with crafting into a profitable Etsy shop named MegansMenagerie, earning over $121,400 annually.
Starting the Business
- Walsh began her Etsy store in 2009 while studying nursing.
- Her initial sale was a crocheted cowl-neck scarf for $40.
- The endeavor provided supplemental income for her bills and family celebrations.
Growth During the Pandemic
- In March 2021, to cope with stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, she shifted focus to creating plant-themed artworks using eucalyptus.
- Her shop's revenue surged to $121,400 in 2021, with projected monthly sales of approximately $9,800 in 2023.
- Profits enabled her to lessen her nursing hours and gain financial independence.
Current Operations
- Walsh now dedicates 12 to 24 hours weekly to the Etsy shop while working 24 to 32 hours as a nurse.
- She has personally profited around $60,000 from her Etsy shop in the current year.
- The earnings support family expenses, special occasions, and even her daughter's car purchase.
Strategies for Success
- Walsh pivoted her offering in response to market trends, initially focusing on chevron-patterned scarves.
- Since revitalizing her shop during the pandemic, her craft range expanded to include various home décor items.
- She balances her work commitments with family needs, adjusting her schedule to reduce stress.
Conclusion
Megan Walsh’s story exemplifies how a personal side project can evolve into a significant income source, allowing for greater work-life balance and financial flexibility.
