Transitioning Your Photo Booth Side Hustle into a Thriving Business
TL;DR: Transitioning your photo booth side hustle into a thriving full-time business is achievable with the right strategies. Build a solid foundation, scale up gradually, and rely on technology to streamline operations. Focus on branding and self-investment to boost your success. Here’s how.
We’ve seen it happen again and again. An ambitious entrepreneur starts a photo booth side hustle and realizes how lucrative it can be. Suddenly, their full-time job seems to be taking time away from the real money maker.
At that point, they’re faced with a big question. Is it possible to grow a photo booth business from a side hustle and make a living wage?
We’re here to tell you that the answer is YES!
Going from side hustle to main hustle takes some work, but if you’re committed, it’s possible. Pretty soon, you’ll find yourself loving life while bringing in a competitive income. Learn how to do it by checking out the pro tips below!
Build a Strong Foundation
If your side hustle is thriving, you already have a lot of the structure in place to build a business. Before you start resigning from jobs or hiring staff, you’ll need to do the following:
- Set a budget
- Create a transition timeline
- Make a list of critical resources
- Look into external funding sources
- Create a business plan
If you’re struggling with this step, you’re going to struggle moving forward. This is the stage when you can benefit from an experienced Photo Booth Business coach.
Scale Up Slowly
According to a recent report, the average American spends 5-10 hours weekly on their side hustle. That means the jump to full-time can be jarring. You might not be able to quit your day job immediately. Many entrepreneurs continue to work part-time during their transition.
There’s no shame in having multiple revenue streams, either. What other services can you offer alongside your photo booths? Do you have photography skills? Figure out what else you have to offer to boost your bottom line.
Rely on Tech During Your Transition
There are plenty of tools you can use to help you scale up without taking up more of your time. Investing in technological solutions can boost efficiency with less labor.
For example, consider adopting automation tools. Something as simple as automated communication can project professionalism. Consider scheduling social media posts, setting up an invoicing workflow, or using a CRM to manage scheduling.
Doing less and earning more sounds good to us!
Get Your Name Out There
Now is the time to invest in your web presence and brand visibility.
To book a full-time schedule, you need to get your name out there. Is your website professional and up to date? Is your social media engaging and enticing? If people can’t find you, they won’t book you, and your business will suffer.
If your side hustle is more informal, make sure you have a unique company name and logo. A strong brand identity will stick in customer’s minds.
Likewise, get those business cards printed. Word of mouth is the best way to stir up business. Every event attendee is a potential customer. Make sure they know you’re available!
Invest In Yourself
Transitioning a photo booth side hustle into a business is a big change. You might not have all the skills you need right away.
Consider seeking out extra education and ways to improve your skills. Take the time to learn more about marketing, budgeting, or even photography. The more confident you are in your skills, the better your new business will do.
Invest in Your Business
At PBI, we know how to transform a photo booth hustle into a thriving business. We even offer tools and programs that can help.
For example, start with our free Photo Booth Boss Webinar. You’ll learn what it takes to make six figures with a Photo Booth Business. You can also check out our eBook, Photo Booth Secrets.
Once you’re feeling confident, you’ll be ready to join our Photo Booth Business Club. You’ll be in a community with other entrepreneurs who have transitioned their side hustles. It’s the best way to invest in your business and yourself and prioritize growth.