Be Your Own Boss: 10 Ideas for a Home-Based Business

If you are tired of working a dead-end job for an unappreciative boss, or if you are a stay-at-home mom that would like to bring in a little extra cash, then maybe you should consider starting your own business! The following suggestions are only a fraction of the possibilities for home-based businesses, but they can also lead to other ideas of interest. They are great part-time or full-time jobs!

With any start-up business you choose, you’ll want to make sure that you study every aspect of it. The more you learn, the more proficient you will become. Take some classes, read many books, and research any policies or regulations that you may be required to follow. Also keep in mind that the internet is an extremely powerful business tool, so utilize it in the best way you can.
Good Luck!

Event or Wedding Planner
It takes a great amount of time, organization, and patience to plan parties and special events. Many people prefer to have someone else do it for them. Event planning can include children’s birthday parties, Sweet Sixteen parties, bridal and baby showers, or even family reunions. Offer to provide food and refreshments, entertainment, music, and activities.

If you are interested in becoming a wedding planner, then educate yourself on traditional and contemporary ceremonies. Depending on the preference of your customer, you can provide assistance in coordinating every aspect of the wedding. Examples include hiring a good photographer, choreographing the ceremony, and organizing the reception banquet.

Planning for weddings and certain special events can be very time consuming and can reach a high magnitude of extravagance, so be prepared to occasionally take on a heavy work load.

Decluttering, organizing, and cleaning services
Very few people enjoy spending their limited free time cleaning out their junk-filled garage or disorderly spare room. A lot of people are more than willing to pay for someone else to do it for them. If you are an organized and tidy person, try applying your skills to help others clear out the clutter in their homes. You can even do a good deed by recycling old newspapers and bottles that are commonly found in cluttered storage sheds and garages.

Photographer/Videographer
Like to take photos? If you own a decent digital camera with four mega pixels or more, you can sell your photos online through stock photography websites. Always read the company’s FAQ and Guidelines prior to uploading your images to be sure your photographs will qualify. Also, if you have a steady hand and love to capture things on video, then consider offering your services for weddings, birthday parties, and other special events.

Ebay Store
The first thing you may want to decide is what type of items to sell: new, used, or both. If you want to sell used items, then forage through garage/estate sales, flea markets, and even your own attic. Shop wisely though, and try to keep in mind of what is currently “hot” and in demand. Don’t go to the first yard sale you see and buy everything that’s sitting on the front porch. If you want to sell new items, then you will need to find a wholesaler or some other source of discount goods. There are several books in print and many websites that can assist you in finding that perfect product.

Child Day Care
Now here is a job that is always in demand. Start off by asking friends and family for referrals. If child care isn’t your cup of tea, then consider day care services for the elderly or pets. But if you adore kids, then this is an excellent opportunity to start your own business. Most parents are growing tired of the impersonal care their children receive from larger centers. Day care centers based in a home environment are in high demand because they are believed to be more beneficial for a child’s development.

There is a caregiver/child ratio regulation that you must follow, as well as several other policies. Research the regulations for home-based day care centers for your area, and browse the web to get an idea of what you need to know. A great website to start with is Daycare.com. Also, it may not be a bad idea to go ahead and enroll in a CPR class, because you will be required to take it once you have started your business.

Graphic Design
If you know how to use Photoshop, then there is no reason why you can’t turn your skills into profit. If you don’t own or can’t afford the lofty priced Photoshop, then there are several other programs out there that can help you get started. You can create greeting cards, business cards, customized stationary, brochures, flyers, or web page logos and banner ads. To get started, offer to redesign business cards for local small businesses, or offer to make birth announcements for friends and family that are expecting a new little bundle of joy.

Run Errands
Simple errands such as running to the grocery store, gas station, or post office can be difficult for some people when it comes to finding the time or having the ability to do so. Even small businesses are willing to outsource a position such as this. If a potential customer lacks time and has the willingness to pay someone to run their errands for them, then you have the opportunity to offer your services.

A good way to begin is to scan the classifieds in your local newspaper. Another way is to promote your services with business cards and/or brochures. Also, post flyers on community or church bulletin boards. Run errands for family and friends to gain referrals and experience. Get the word out as much as possible, because this type of business relies heavily on customer service and word-of-mouth marketing.

Sell your arts & crafts
It doesn’t take a genius to know that candles are very popular products in the gift industry. They are the most commonly given gift and are appropriate for any holiday or special occasion. Different types of candles include aromatherapy, decorative, scented, beeswax, powdered wax, natural wax, and paraffin wax. They can be made into pillars, votives, samplers, and more.

Another popular craft is beaded art jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets, and anklets made with trendy colored beads, metals, shells, or other fancy frills can make a decent little profit. These items are popular on eBay at the moment, so research some auctions to see what styles are fashionable.

Floral Design is also a good craft to learn. Some arrangements, such as table top center pieces, can sell well into the hundreds in terms of dollars. The costs of materials can sometimes be expensive, so be cautious when buying your supplies. Remember: you want to make money, not lose it. Around Christmas, many willing individuals will generously pay to have a designer lavishly decorate their trees and create extravagant decorations for family events and parties. Learn what the trends are for the season and put your skills to work!

Learn how to make these crafts by reading books and taking classes at your local hobby store or community center. Any of these items can be made and sold at craft festivals, flea markets, local retailers, and even your own eBay store. Don’t forget to mention your products to family and friends!

Tutoring
If you love to teach, then offer to help students with homework, essays, or ACT/SAT prep courses. Provide specialized tutoring in Math, Reading, or any other subjects in which you are proficient. If you are musically gifted, then give lessons for children and adults. Get started by placing ads in your local newspaper or pass out business cards. You may want to make yourself known with the local schools as well. Some schools may not refer you unless you have certifications, so you may want to look into what is required.

Gift Baskets
Stuffing gift baskets with beauty supplies, candles, picture frames, and gift cards is a fun way to earn a little extra cash. Create themed gift baskets such as a “Relaxation Bath Spa Basket” that includes an aromatherapy candle, loofah mitt, moisturizing bubble bath, oils, lotions, and bath salts. Another good example is a customized “Movie Lover’s” bundle: throw in a classic horror movie, the latest action release, or a family favorite DVD with a couple of packages of microwaveable popcorn and raisinettes. Or try to create children’s baskets featuring their favorite cartoon or comic book character. Be creative! The possibilities are endless! Once again, utilize eBay or other online shops to sell your product. Also, there are many books offered through Amazon.com that can help you get started with your very own gift basket business.