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Friday, January 17, 2014

The Best Jobs for Stay at Home Moms: 8 Money Making Opportunities as Told By the Moms Who Do It Successfully

 
It's not easy to leave behind a career you've steadily worked at building, one you poured your heart into day after day, year after year. But every year, so many of us Moms choose to take a break from the traditional 9-5 and take on a new role: that of a Stay at Home Mom. Of course it's a rewarding experience, but there are sacrifices - financial (one less paycheck), social (little adult interaction), personal (putting your career aspirations on hold + very little alone time of any kind) . No complaints or pity parties - it's just the name of the game, ya know? I think any of us would say we'd make the same choice again in a heartbeat.

But what if there were opportunities out there that could fill in some of the gaps I described above? Opportunities to make money, meet people (with whom you can have adult interactions!) and give yourself a personal boost... all while still being a Stay at Home Mom?


I was on a quest to find these types of job opportunities. Legitimate, real opportunities (not some scam you see signs for on the side of the road). And, lo and behold, I did! But - WARNING! - this path is not for everyone. These successful women have a common core of values that isn't for the lazy, unmotivated or in-the-box thinker. Each woman I interviewed is SELF MOTIVATED, PASSIONATE, and INNOVATIVE. They saw an opportunity and ran with it. And they are willing to teach you - other Moms looking to carve out a new career that fits with being a Stay at Home Mom - the secrets to their success. I've put together a list of the top 8 job opportunities for Stay at Home Moms, along with interviews from the entrepreneur Moms who have found success with them. I had each tell their stories - in their own words - about how they got started and how they've found success with their particular business. If you are interested in learning more from any of these amazing women, they've also been gracious enough to share their contact information with ya'll. The following businesses are featured: ORIGAMI OWL, TASTEFULLY SIMPLE, SILPADA, THIRTY-ONE GIFTS, NERIUM, LIA SOPHIA plus TWO MOM-OWNED FREELANCE BUSINESSES - BRAIN CANDY COPY WRITING and a FREELANCE FUNDRAISING CONSULTANCY.

If you were looking for a sign as to what to do next with your life or how to continue being a Stay at Home Mom (and make it work financially): this is it. THIS IS YOUR SIGN : )

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Origami Owl
Kate McKenzie – Independent Designer
Email: OrigamiKate8@gmail.com
Twitter: @OrigamiKate
Facebook: www.facebook.com/origamiowlkatemckenzie
Kate McKenzie Origami Owl - Origami Owl Kate McKenzie
Can I make money selling Origami Owl?
 
 
Origami Owl in a Nutshell: A social selling custom jewelry line with a personal touch. Signature Living Lockets® are customized with charms to tell your story.
 
When did you start your Origami Owl business?
  • I started working as an Origami Owl Independent Designer in November of 2013. 
 
What were the top 3 reasons for wanting to begin your Origami Owl business?
  • I was looking for a challenge. Something new that would utilize my abilities in a different way than being a stay at home mama does.
  • I was looking for flexibility-work from anywhere, whenever, and how ever much I want. 
  • I was looking for a generous commission structure that would enable me to earn extra income. 
 
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Origami Owl business?
  • On average, I put in about 5 hours per day and 25 hours per week. 
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as an Independent Designer with Origami Owl?
  • I made more than $1,500 in my first month. 
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
  • I have a degree in Spanish, Secondary Education as well as a Masters in Ministry. I was a teacher before becoming a stay at home mom.  
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Origami Owl business?
  • I love that I am free to spend as much or as little time as I want and be handsomely rewarded for my work. It's really fun seeing the direct results of the time that I put into my business. I love the challenge that it is to build a business, to earn customer trust and loyalty, to market creatively, and to work my way up in this amazing company. I love being able to pause when I want and need to spend time with my son. I love meeting new people and sharing a product that I love with them. I love my customers' responses when they see the quality and beauty of Origami Owl jewelry for the first time, when they receive their very own Locket, or when they get to gift a Locket to a loved one. I love mentoring others to be able to have the same experience and to earn financial freedom that they may have not previously enjoyed. 
 
 
Why did you choose Origami Owl?
  • As I did my research, I was really impressed with Origami Owl's reputation and with their generous commission structure. I felt that the startup cost of $150 was affordable and I absolutely LOVED the jewelry myself because it was unique and personalized. I was really excited about the chance to help people tell their story through their Living Lockets. 
 
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Origami Owl team, how could they contact you?
  • I am currently expending my team and looking for motivated, creative, passionate people who would love the chance to design Living Lockets that tell people's stories, to make extra money and to have a blast while doing it on their own timeline and in their own way. There is so much room to grow and to customize this business to their needs, abilities and availability. Here is all my contact info:
 
 
Tastefully Simple
Gretchen Brown – Independent Consultant
Email: jeffandgretchenbrown@yahoo.com
Phone: 770-377-6196
Gretchen Brown Tastefully Simple - Tastefully Simple Gretchen Brown
Can I make money selling Tastefully Simple?
 
Tastefully Simple in a Nutshell: Tastefully Simple offers a wide selection of convenient, easy-to-prepare foods designed to help people spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the rest of their lives. Our products are available through independent Tastefully Simple consultants primarily at home taste-testing parties nationwide.
 
When did you start your Tastefully Simple business?
  • I started working as a Tastefully Simple Independent Consultant in October 2013. 
 
 
What were the top 3 reasons for wanting to begin your Tastefully Simple business?
  • Flexibility to be a stay at home mom and also have the opportunity to work outside the home.
  • Ability to use business skills outside of being a mom. 
  • Fun!  Being able to socialize with people at parties, meet new people while earning an income at the same time.
 
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Tastefully Simple business?
  • I am able to determine what my goals are and adjust how much I work on a month to month basis.  I usually work an hour each day planning for parties, following up with clients, working on marketing and connections.   Each party I schedule adds about 3 hours to my "work" week.
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as an Independent Consultant with Tastefully Simple?
  • You will make 30% gross profit from the products you sell.  For example:  when someone places a $100 order through your website, you will receive $30.  At parties, we do pay nominal cost for samples and supplies, so average "take home" pay from a party is $75-$120.  Monthly/Annual earnings vary depending on personal income goals.
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
  • My previous profession was in Health Information Management ~ I worked in healthcare and business.
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Tastefully Simple business?
  • I enjoy sharing the delicious food with others, meeting new people, the new learning experience, and earning some extra spending money.
 
 
Why did you choose Tastefully Simple?
  • I chose Tastefully Simple because I have LOVED the products for over 10 years!  I knew this type of business fit well with my interest in foods, cooking, baking and simplifying life while preparing and enjoying delicious meals with my family.
 
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Tastefully Simple team, how could they contact you?
  • January is a GREAT time to join the Tastefully Simple team!!  Start your business for $85 – that's 50% off the usual cost of the Business Blast Off Kit®.  And, receive $50 on account when you have and place an activating order(s) of $400+ by February 17, 2014. Contact me for more information, I'd love to help you get started and coach you along! Here is all my contact info:
 
 
 
 

Silpada
Vickie Wages - Independent Design Representative
Email: vickie_wages@comcast.net
Phone: 404-273-2206
Vickie Wages Silpada - Silpada Vickie Wages
Can I make money selling Silpada?
 
Silpada in a Nutshell: High-quality, high-fashion jewelry that allows women to design the life of their dreams.
 
When did you start your Silpada business?
  • I started working as a Silpada Independent Design Representative in October 2010. 
 
 
What were the top 3 reasons for starting your Silpada business?
  • I wanted to make my own spending money.
  • I wanted to set my own hours.
  • I wanted to do something FUN!
 
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Silpada business?
  • I work about 10 hours per week. 
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as an Independent Design Representative with Silpada?
  • I make on average $1200 per month.
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
·         I was in Corporate America for 27 years and left when my daughter started Kindergarten and my son was starting Middle School.  My husband started traveling and we both could not continue our demanding jobs and raise two children (at least not the way we wanted to.)  I loved being a stay-at-home mom and being “available” for my kids, volunteering at school/church, etc.  I wouldn’t change a thing--it worked for us.
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Silpada business?
  • I love being a Silpada Designs Rep for the relationships first and foremost.  I have met some absolutely amazing women and my friendship base has grown exponentially.  I love the freedom Silpada gives me and I love having the extra money.  I have built a team, too, which is just amazing.  I started out NOT wanting to build a team but now love being able to share this dream/opportunity with others.  Empowering women is incredible.  Not to mention, I get to “wear” my business.  I LOVE this .925 Fine Sterling Silver Jewelry!!
  
Why did you choose Silpada?
  • I have been wearing the jewelry for about 10 years and always loved it.  I never thought about selling it but had several people tell me I should.  I think because I truly believe in the jewelry and others could see that in me.  Silpada also offers a Lifetime Guarantee which I just love.  I love a company that will stand behind their products…..for a lifetime!
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Silpada team, how could they contact you?
 
  • I’d love to share what I do with others! If anyone is interested in joining my team or just talking about what I do, here is my contact info:
 
                       
Thirty-One Gifts
Tracy Lammey - Independent Director
Email: tracylammey@hotmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TracyTotes
Tracy Lammey Thirty One - Thirty One Tracy Lammey
Can I make money selling Thirty One?
 
Thirty-One Gifts in a Nutshell: Whether you're looking for style, organization, the perfect giftable item - or a little bit of everything - explore Thirty-One's trendy and affordable purses, totes, and accessories.
 
When did you start your Thirty-One business?
  • I started working with Thirty-One in August 2010. My journey with Thirty One began when I met a woman at an outing with my son. We struck up a friendship and she invited me to a Thirty One party at her home.  I hadn’t seen her in awhile and so, I decided I’d go—just to see her, not to buy anything.   I took one look at the catalog and fell in love with the products.  Before I left that day, I told the consultant that I was going to sign up to sell it!
 
What were the top 3 reasons for starting your Thirty-One business?
·         Earn Extra Spending Money: When I enrolled as a Thirty One consultant, my son had just turned 3 years old.  While we were blessed that my husband had a good job and I could stay home as a full time mom, I missed have extra spending money. Bringing in some money helped to pay for music classes or dinner out with my friends!  One of the first perks I earned, a $1,000 Best Buy gift card, went towards a brand new laptop for my husband’s birthday so he was definitely on board with my business after that!
 
·         Build Relationship and Meet People: The relationships that I’ve been able to create with customers, hostesses, team members and fellow Thirty One consultants have been invaluable. As a stay at home mom, sometimes you can become disconnected from everyone, especially before your children start school.  Many of your friends are working or staying at home with their own children and varying nap schedules. Thirty-One gave me the opportunity to get dressed up (well—at least out of my pjs!) and head out to have a great time at someone else’s house.  This meant some desperately needed alone time (in the car singing loudly) and some lively interaction at a party!
 
·         Build a Team and Mentor Other Women: As my team has grown, I’ve been blessed to be able to help other women become as successful as they want to be.  Sometimes an extra $200 a month can really make a big difference!   My team and I stay in touch via our Facebook group, weekly Tuesday Tips,  webinars, and brunches at my house!   
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Thirty-One business?
  • One of the best things about this business is that you can work as many or as few hours as you’d like.  Typically during busier months (like November) I’ll work more hours at more parties and then around Christmas I’ll take some time off.  I am now a director with a downline of 31 (yup, 31!) wonderful ladies – so I do work extra hours training, celebrating, and encouraging them for an average of around 10 hours a week.
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as an Independent Director with Thirty-One?
  • I make on average $900 per month.
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
·         I was a Stay at Home Mom to my  young son. Before that, I wrote requirements for computer programmers.
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Thirty-One business?
  • Selling bags and hanging out with some great women is far more fun than my previous job of writing requirements for computer programmers! One of the things I didn’t love about corporate America was the lack of control over my own time. With Thirty One, I can choose how and when to spend my time.  I can work on things that I find important and the things that I don’t love to do I can find alternate ways to deal with them – like using another direct sales company to send out postcards to my customers and team!
  
Why did you choose Thirty-One Gifts?
  • Before working with Thirty-One, I had been selling for another direct sales company but it had kind of fizzled out.  With this other company, I’d felt on my own, never had training or connected with my upline, didn’t recruit anyone, etc.  I assumed my experience with Thirty-One would be the same, just with different products – however, I quickly found out that Thirty-One truly lived up to their mission – to Celebrate, Encourage and Reward Women.  I was amazed, and still am at the training, encouragement and camaraderie that exists!
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Thirty-One team, how could they contact you?
  • If anyone is interested in learning more about Thirty-One or joining my team – please contact me:
 


Nerium
Jennifer Vanderhoff - National Marketing Director
Email: Jennyrv@usa.net
Phone: (678) 428-9747
Jennifer Vanderhoff Nerium - Nerium Jennifer Vanderhoff
Can I make money selling Nerium?
 
Nerium in a Nutshell: Nerium SkinCare, Inc. ® develops, formulates, and manufactures for the consumer the "first of its kind" natural skin care products for topical use.
 
When did you start your Nerium business?
  • I started working with Nerium on May 18, 2012.
 
What were the top reasons for starting your Nerium business?
  • I grew up working for 2 of my family’s 3 businesses. When the economy took a hit in 2008 my parents were forced to shut down and they lost everything. It was a very tough time for us all and I have always wanted to get back to working for myself again but just couldn’t find the right thing that I could earn enough money with to quit my full time job. Then I found Nerium!
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Nerium business?
  • I would say 15-25 hours a week, I do have a large team now so I do go visit them in
other areas but that is usually once a month.
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as a National Marketing Director with Nerium?
  • Right now $10,000+ a month, plus I get a car allowance of $750.
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
  • I worked for my parents computer company and after that I worked in the gold industry.
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Nerium business?
·         I love working for myself and earning a great income that allows me to do things with my Daughter. I also enjoy meeting new people and helping them grow Nerium into a successful business for them. We are a pay it forward company so we get rewarded on helping others be a successful!
  
Why did you choose Nerium?
  • I honestly trusted the people who brought it to me, they had left their corporate jobs to do Nerium full-time. So it intrigued me, but I had never head of it before. It was a gamble and I took what little money I had left and got started. I earned the cost of my Kit back in 10 days, an iPad in two weeks and my Lexus in 32 days! Not only that, 2 ½ months after I started I quit that full-time job! Best decision ever!!!
 
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Nerium team, how could they contact you?
  • Right now we have a special on our kits running thru March 31st, 2014 so it is a great time to get started with Nerium! All my contact information is below. Additionally if anyone is interested in trying the product for five nights free they can ask me about that too!
 
 
Erin O'Keefe - Star Unit Manager
Email: erint77@gmail.com
Phone: 914-450-0700
Erin O'Keefe Lia Sophia - Lia Sophia Erin O'Keefe
Can I make money selling Lia Sophia?
 
Lia Sophia in a Nutshell: Open the door to more ... Lia Sophia is a company that’s head-over-heels in love with great jewelry, and our exclusive designs are proudly sold by women who feel the same way.
 
When did you start your Lia Sophia business?
  • I started my Lia Sophia business in February of 2011.  My friend convinced me to sign up and I was kicking and screaming...turned out to be an AMAZING decision!
 
What were the top 3 reasons for starting your Lia Sophia business?
  • CASH, CASH, and CASH!  My husband and I at the time were making ends meet but were not saving.  We were commuting an hour to work every day and we had one child in daycare at the time.  I needed a 'job' that provided the most bang for your buck and Lia Sophia was the answer!  In one year I saved enough money to put a down payment on a house 5 miles from work! YAY!
 
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Lia Sophia business?
  • On average I do one party/week. Typically 3 hours per party. During the week I take some time to work with hostess' and new advisors. I would say 5-10 hours a week tops!
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as a Star Unit Director with Lia Sophia?
  • I am currently making on average $3,000/month.  Some months are a big higher, some a bit lower.  This is amazing income for only working 4 nights a month!
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
·         I am a full-time teacher. What most people don't know is that most teachers have a second job.  We either coach, tutor, wait tables, etc. I needed more income with fewer hours. You can't make this type of money anywhere else!
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Lia Sophia business?
  • Number one is the amazing women I've met along the way.  I'm so inspired by them and they have become my mentors and friends.  I'm also inspired by the women I have helped become advisors.  I celebrate their success with them.  The money is AMAZING but the friendships are priceless.  I didn't set out in this business to make new friends, but now I cannot imagine my life without them.  Oh, and the money is great and the trips I have earned along the way are pretty awesome too!  I also enjoy working on my own terms.  I work around my kid's activities and my husband's coaching schedule.  I make my own hours and I don't miss out on the 'fun' stuff.
  
Why did you choose Lia Sophia?
  • I have worked with other direct sales companies and have found that the business plan with Lia Sophia is the BEST!  Yes, the jewelry is an amazing, gorgeous perk, but the company has set us up to make money and be successful.  The start up cost is minimal, we don't have to purchase or carry inventory, we don't have to make deliveries.  We literally put the jewelry out and it sells itself.  I don't consider myself a saleswoman.  I am a mother and teacher.  People LOVE the jewelry, hostess' get SPOILED with our amazing hostess plan and our customers receive amazing deals and a lifetime guarantee on our product (who does that?). 
 
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, or joining your Lia Sophia team, how could they contact you?
  • I'd love to share! My contact information is below:
 

In addition to joining an established company, you could always strike out on your own and start a Freelance or Consultant business, putting the skills from your former career to work for YOU. Here's how two Stay at Home Moms have done it...

 

 
Brain Candy Copy Writing
Jill Marber - Owner and Copy Writer
Web: www.braincandycopywriting.com
Email: jill@braincandycopywriting.com
  
 
When did you start your business - Brain Candy Copywriting?
  • I started when my daughter was about a year, so almost 2 years ago (in 2012).
 
What were the top 3 reasons for starting your business - Brain Candy Copywriting?
  • I wanted to start my own business to have a flexible schedule.
  • Make more money per hour than I would working for another business.
  • To be creative with what I love to do!
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your business - Brain Candy Copywriting?
  • I probably work a little every day, but on average I work about 20 hours a week.
 
 
On average, how much profit do you make per month as a Freelance Copywriter with Brain Candy Copywriting?
  • My hourly rate is between $40-$60. Depending on the client. If it is a larger job I will sometimes charge less, or if it is a client I do a lot of work for. The time it takes to learn a new client's business can be a lot and I can't always charge for that time, so it makes sense to charge new clients more.
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
  • I worked in the marketing department for the advertising sales division of Comcast. 
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Freelance Copy Writing business?
  • Making money and wearing something other than pajamas. Plus, I like using my degree and staying current in the market.
  
Why did you choose to create a business focusing on Copy Writing?
  • My degree is in Advertising and I have always working in the field. Copywriting is what I enjoy the most, so it is nice to focus on that aspect.
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, how could they contact you?
·         I'd love to share! My contact information is below:

 
Fundraising Consultant
Amelia Nickerson - Owner and Fundraising Consultant
Email: ameliadeloach@hotmail.com
Phone: (404) 276-5794

 
When did you start your Fundraising Consultant business?
  • I started my current position in August 2013.
 
What were the top 3 reasons for starting your Fundraising Consultant business?
  • My youngest child was starting school (2-year class) and was going to have more time available.
  • Mental stimulation and adult interaction - something not "mommy" related.
  • Financial benefit
 
 
How many hours per day and per/week do you put into your Fundraising Consultant business?
  • 10-15 hours/week 
 
 
What did you do before you started this work-from-home business? If you were/are a stay-at-home mom, what profession were you in before that?
  • Former Corporate Relations Manager (fundraising/stewardship) for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra with some outside fundraising consulting. Stay-at-home mom for the last three years.
 
 
What are your favorite parts of owning your own Fundraising Consultant business?
  • Focusing on something other than kids for a few hours. I think having that mental break helps me be more present when I am with the kids. I feel less burned out as a mom when I am able to have that adult (and non-mom) interaction elsewhere.
 
Why did you choose to create a business focusing on Fundraising Consultancy?
  • I've stayed active in the nonprofit world by sitting on a non-profit Board and Chairing a large event for the last several years. Through these connections I was referred for my current position.
 
If someone was interested in learning more from you, how could they contact you?
·         I'd love to share! My contact information is below:
 
  • Amelia Nickerson - Owner and Fundraising Consultant
  • Email: ameliadeloach@hotmail.com
  • Phone: (404) 276-5794
 
 
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