Emily Odio-Sutton began her successful Etsy side hustle in December 2022, inspired by YouTube videos about print-on-demand services. Her shop, specializing in gifts for niche professions and hobbies, has generated over $236,000 in revenue in 2024, allowing her to transition to part-time work and pay off student loans. Despite the success and profits, she keeps her Etsy shop name private to prevent copycats.
Prior to her Etsy venture, Odio-Sutton experimented with other side hustles, including Amazon FBA, where she bought trending items and sold them on Amazon. However, the heavy time commitment and slim profit margins led her to switch to print-on-demand services, which required less design experience and time. By focusing on unique niche designs for mugs, candles, and tote bags, Odio-Sutton found success in the crowded Etsy marketplace.
Odio-Sutton uses tools like Google and ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas for niche designs, created using Canva, to cater to specific jobs or hobbies. By duplicating successful designs with variations in hobbies or professions, she was able to increase sales and profits. During peak shopping seasons, her shop brought in significant revenue, helping her to pay off various bills and invest in the stock market and college savings for her daughters.
Working 20 hours per week at her publishing job and 10 hours on Etsy allows Odio-Sutton to manage multiple income streams. She also coaches aspiring Etsy sellers and manages Pinterest accounts for business owners as additional sources of income. While she contemplates the idea of pursuing her side hustle full-time in the future, she prioritizes spending time with her daughters and maintaining a schedule that allows her to be present at important events in their lives.
Odio-Sutton’s success story serves as inspiration for those looking to make extra money outside of their day jobs. By leveraging online platforms and focusing on unique, niche designs, she was able to turn her side hustle into a six-figure annual income. Her ability to balance work, family, and financial responsibilities is a testament to the potential of pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle.
