Domonique Brown, a 30-year-old American woman, is one of those fortunate individuals who have managed to strike a balance between earning a substantial income from a side business and maintaining a full-time job. With just a side hustle, she is able to generate over $333,600 in additional income annually, all while dedicating only 2 hours a day to managing her side gig.
Not everyone can replicate the same type of side hustle, but the business model and experiences of successful individuals can serve as inspiration to carve out one’s own path to success. Brown drew inspiration from the experiences of those around her when she decided to embark on her own entrepreneurial journey.
Growing up, both of Brown’s parents held full-time positions at the post office but also delved into sculpture-related side businesses. Her grandmother, on the other hand, despite being 80 years old, continued to design and create wedding dresses as a seamstress.
In 2020, while holding two marketing jobs, Brown’s passion for artistic creation led her to kickstart a side business named DomoINK in April of the same year. DomoINK quickly evolved into a successful brand specializing in art and home décor products.
Utilizing platforms such as her website, Etsy, Society6, as well as collaborating with retail giants like Target and Home Goods, Brown expanded the reach of DomoINK. Partnerships with renowned brands such as Disney, Samsung, Lowe’s, and Dr. Martens further boosted the visibility and credibility of her brand.
Initially starting the side hustle as a means to share her art created at her kitchen table, Brown’s journey took off when she realized the demand for her artwork in people’s homes. Witnessing a lack of African American artists’ works in affordable retail stores like Target and Home Goods, she started showcasing her original artwork on platforms like Etsy and social media.
According to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It, DomoINK’s gross profit in 2023 amounted to $333,600, averaging $27,800 per month. Today, Brown’s side hustle not only continues to thrive but also surpasses her full-time job’s income. Her full-time position as a graphic designer earns her $90,000 annually.
Maintaining this side business does not demand excessive time. Brown allocates around two hours daily to engage with clients, create content for DomoINK, and produce new artworks whenever inspiration strikes. Her background in real estate and marketing has equipped her with valuable sales experience essential for the growth of her venture.
Brown believes that her side hustle is replicable. She emphasizes the importance of networking, educational background, technical skills, and years of experience as factors that can give individuals an edge in establishing successful side ventures.
Additionally, confidence in oneself plays a vital role. Brown advises against easily believing naysayers who doubt one’s potential for success.
So, what set Brown apart in a competitive landscape?
“I know how to challenge myself. I think that is the best way to replicate success,” she explained. “I started with portraits. As I began getting more brand deals, I learned how to design patterns because they look great on carpets, towels, and other textiles. I think it’s related to my marketing background, knowing what’s next and staying ahead of the curve.”
Balancing a full-time job, side hustle, and personal life initially posed immense pressure for Brown when she began DomoINK. However, she now focuses on holistic well-being and efficient time management, including prioritizing sleep and travel. She dedicates time to her side business after completing her full-time workday.
Brown is not the only American to achieve significant success through a side hustle. Inspired by the concept of print-on-demand, 26-year-old American Francisco Rivera started his candle side business. Choosing to create organic candles with a touch of humor and neutral colors, Rivera designs his pattern designs on Canva and showcases them on Etsy with the help of the Printify platform.
According to CNBC Make It, Rivera’s Etsy sales amounted to approximately $462,000 last year. Typically working only 20 minutes a day, Rivera occasionally invests up to two hours in researching trends and designing new candle labels.