By Jill McDonough
Homeschooling does not mean that you have to shelve your gifts and passions. Let’s learn about how homeschooling mom, Heather Bishop, created her own wellness and spa business, Juniper Wellness.
What’s your side hustle?
I practice massage therapy + esthetics. I am also prenatal-certified in massage therapy.
How did you get into this particular side hustle?
I went to trade school right out of high school while living in Sarasota, FL.
How long have you been doing this side hustle?
Over twelve years.
What are the startup costs for this type of side hustle?
These types of trade schools are state specific and I went to school in Florida. In Michigan, it is usually a 9 month program for massage therapy and it costs around $8,000-$9,000.
In Michigan, esthetics is 12 weeks long and costs $5,000. You also must maintain your license with a fee and continuing education courses. Once graduated, you are able to be employed as an independent contractor in a salon or chiropractor’s office or be self-employed. Each situation will have different startup costs.
Do your kids help you with this side hustle?
No.
What are the pros this side hustle?
- I am extremely passionate about my work and it is rewarding and fulfilling.
- I make my own schedule around my life and my kids.
What are the cons of this side hustle?
- The expense of starting up.
- It requires physical exertion.
How do you juggle homeschooling and this side hustle?
I am able to schedule my clients around my schedule.
What homeschool curriculum do you use?
I have a 4 year old and a 2 year old so we are just starting our homeschooling journey very casually in the last year with preschool curriculum from The Good and The Beautiful and Gather ‘Round (Pre-reader).
Would you recommend this particular side hustle to other homeschool moms?
I would absolutely suggest this side hustle for anyone who would love it and has the ability to commit to going to school. It is so rewarding!
Want to learn more about Heather’s side hustle?
And seriously, what homeschooling, side-hustling mom couldn’t use a massage?
You can find Heather on Facebook at Juniper Wellness LLC https://www.facebook.com/juniperwellnessllc
or through her website:
https://www.juniperwellnessmassage.com/
