Hi Oddies,

Jen Glantz here. My birthday is on Monday. Yes, I was born on April Fool’s Day. It’s quite the birthday, especially for someone who grew up mostly socially awkward and extremely shy.

I will never be able to approach a birthday cake with candles on it and not wonder if it’s lined with trick candles. I wake up on my birthday and think every single person around me is out to get me. Most of you will think I’m being paranoid but I’m not. I was just born on perhaps the oddest day of the year to have a birthday.

The truth is, I love that my birthday is on April Fool’s Day and I truly view birthdays as a sign to take control of life, make it a bit of a mess again, and live the way you want.

So happy birthday to me, soon, and to you: let’s get odd.

This week: We’ll chat about odd jobs related to birthdays and how you can dive into one of them to make extra side cash.

As always: Take the side hustle course if you need a 101 into starting your own business, book a 1:1 coaching session if you need a pick-me-up, or read about my personal life here.

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Side Hustles That Help People Celebrate Birthdays

Greeting Card Designer

A Greeting Card Designer crafts artistic and heartfelt designs for various occasions such as birthdays, holidays, and special events. They conceptualize themes, select color schemes, and create original illustrations or graphics to convey emotions and messages effectively. Attention to detail, creativity, and a keen understanding of the target audience's preferences are essential for a Greeting Card Designer to create memorable and meaningful cards.

Jen’s notes: Anyone can do this. Use Canva (for free) to create the cards and sell them on Etsy (not free but low fees).

Birthday Wish Maker

Even if I don’t give someone a gift, I usually write them a meaningful card. But this doesn’t come easy to everyone. A business idea: create an AI tool that can write custom birthday messages for people. Sell access to the tool for $2 a month and people can turn to it whenever they need the tool to help them write a message for a birthday card.

Jen’s notes: I built a tool to write wedding speeches and vows for people. You can use this same model and do it for greeting cards.

Gift Curator

A Gift Curator specializes in selecting and assembling unique and personalized gifts for various occasions and recipients. Gift Curators consider factors like budget, cultural context, and the relationship between the giver and receiver to ensure each gift is thoughtful and meaningful. They may collaborate with artisans, vendors, and designers to offer exclusive and high-quality items. Attention to detail, creativity, and a deep understanding of gifting etiquette and trends are crucial for a Gift Curator to create memorable and appreciated gift experiences.

Jen’s notes: You can offer this as a paid service (charge $25 to give the person a list of 50 gifts based on their preferences) or start a newsletter/website sharing gift suggestions. Use affiliate links and make money when people buy what you suggest.

Birthday Song Composer

A Birthday Song Composer creates original musical compositions tailored for birthdays. They blend melodies, lyrics, and arrangements to capture celebratory themes and personalize the song for the recipient. Collaboration with clients to understand their vision and crafting joyful, catchy tunes are key aspects of their role, spreading happiness through music.

Jen’s notes: I’d market this type of service on TikTok. What a fun gift to give someone!

Mobile Party Cart

People who are hosting at-home birthday parties want something unique and different. Offer a cart service that you can turn into: a coffee cart, DIY flower arrangement cart, cocktail cart, beaded jewelry bar, or more. One example of a DIY one.

Jen’s notes: All you need to do is invest in a cart and then find easy ways to flip it based on the person’s needs. Charge $2500 for the cart, person to run it, and to personalize it. Then charge extra for the actual products provided (ex: $700 for a beaded jewelry bar for 4-hours).

Charcuterie Maker

A Charcuterie Maker specializes in crafting artisanal cured meats and savory delicacies. Charcuterie Makers create enticing charcuterie boards, balancing flavors and textures for a delightful culinary experience. They may also experiment with new recipes, techniques, and ingredients to innovate in this traditional craft, ensuring each product meets the highest standards of taste and presentation. Attention to detail, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a passion for culinary excellence are essential for a Charcuterie Maker to excel in their craft. Example of someone doing this.

Jen’s notes: This is a great offering for someone who loves to make a charcuterie board.

Balloon Arch Designer

Have you seen how intricate balloon arches are at birthday parties and bachelorette parties these days? This isn’t in my wheelhouse to do. I am terrified of balloons and just wouldn’t be able to pull one of these off. I’d easily hire someone to do this.

Jen’s notes: You can grab supplies on Amazon and ideas from Pinterest to pull this off for people. Charge for supplies, personalization efforts, and set-up/take-down.

Party Decorator

On that note, if like decorating for parties, people will pay you to do that. A Party Decorator transforms event spaces into immersive and thematic experiences. They conceptualize and execute decorations, including lighting, backdrops, centerpieces, and props, to create the desired ambiance. Collaborating with clients, coordinating logistics, and staying updated with trends ensure each event is visually stunning and memorable for guests.

Jen’s notes: Advertise on Instagram, local community groups, and grow bizz by word of mouth.

Any of these jobs feel like a good fit? Learn more about starting a side hustle or comment a job you’re interested in below:

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Oddies But Goodies:

• A list of products, songs, articles, and books.

• I use these to help me organize my day

• An inexpensive pair of headphones that work well for work or podcasts

• A pair of shoes perfect for a casual day or work from home errands

• I’m gifting all the clients who worked with me in Q1 some chocolate. I use this company because they ship products fast and are reasonably priced. Use code: [mondaypickmeup15 for 15% off ]

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