589: How a Simple Idea Turned Into a $50k a Month Side Hustle
Dec 7, 2023
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A couple's accident sparked the creation of an innovative Kindle strap that now generates over $50k a month. They discuss how they found success through micro-influencers, validated early demand, and utilized diversified sales channels. Other topics include developing the product, expanding market reach, managing orders, protecting their business, and driving traffic through various platforms. Tips for side hustle success and leveraging popular products are also shared.
An accidental incident led to the creation of a successful product idea.
Utilizing micro-influencers on social media played a key role in gaining visibility for the product.
Deep dives
Creating a Solution to a Parenting Problem
Lou Rice was inspired to create a simple silicone strap for Kindle devices after accidentally dropping a Kindle reader on her newborn's head while breastfeeding. After testing the strap and finding it incredibly useful, Lou and her husband decided to turn it into a business.
Starting and Manufacturing the Product
Lou and her husband worked with a manufacturer in China to produce the silicone straps. They went through multiple prototype iterations to perfect the design and size. They were lucky to have a minimum order quantity of 500, which they quickly sold out of. They also went through the process of trademarking their brand and protecting their product.
Marketing and Sales Strategies
Lou utilized various marketing channels and tactics to promote and sell the straps. She reached out to micro-influencers on TikTok and Instagram who had Kindle-related accounts and sent them samples. In return, they shared their positive experiences with the straps and provided discount codes for their followers. Lou also leveraged Facebook groups and LinkedIn to generate interest and sales. She later expanded to Amazon and worked on driving traffic to her Amazon listing.
Future Goals and Expansion
Lou's future goals include growing Strapsicle into the number one Kindle accessory globally. She also plans to explore opportunities in wholesale and expand her product line to cater to other devices, such as iPads. Additionally, Lou wants to tap into the disability market and provide her straps as a tool for people with conditions that make it difficult to hold devices.
Lou Rice was breastfeeding her son Archie one night when disaster struck—she dropped her Kindle on his head!
While that experience was upsetting for both of them at the moment, it sparked an idea for Lou and her husband Ben to create a solution.
Ben fashioned a silicone strap with staples to attach Lou's Kindle to her hand and prevent any future dropping incidents.
Lou tested it out over the next month and absolutely loved having the grip and security of the strap for comfortable one-handed reading during those long middle-of-the-night feeds.
And thus, their side hustle, strapsicle.com was born—a company now generating over $50k a month selling their innovative Kindle straps. Not only that, but Strapsicle is on pace for its first-ever 6 figures after recently going viral on TikTok and Instagram.
Tune in to Episode 589 of The Side Hustle Show to learn:
How an accident sparked a successful product idea
Why micro-influencers were key for visibility
How early demand was validated before production
How diversified sales channels have inherent strengths