Mom Starts Side Hustle with Just $500. Months Later, She Is Making ‘Thousands’ Thanks to ‘Low-Risk’ Gig (Exclusive)

**Vanessa Romano Balances Corporate Career with Growing Event Rental Business**

At the age of 39, Vanessa Romano has successfully balanced a flourishing side business with her established corporate career. As the founder of Little Party Co., Romano turned an initial investment of £500 into a thriving event rental service that has already secured 65 bookings and generated over £9,000 in revenue within months.

Romano’s venture began with just a handful of yard games, procured with the minimal investment she thought would potentially double as family entertainment if the business did not take off. However, to her delight, the response was immediate. She recorded five bookings in her first month, which quickly escalated to 17 in the second month. By the end of just a few months, her fledgling enterprise had blossomed into what she now views as a viable business entity.

“I loved the idea of building something of my own that could contribute to our financial goals and give us the ability to say yes to more of the things we want to do as a family,” Romano shared. The concept sparked from observing the successes of party rental businesses on social media platforms. Driven by inspiration and little risk associated with her upfront investment, she committed to the endeavour.

In her initial months, Romano diligently reinvested the profits back into the business, which eventually reached around £4,500 in total investments. This strategic decision paid off significantly, as the revenue has now nearly doubled her investment. She has adopted a careful approach to sourcing inventory, favouring items that customers actively seek, which has enabled her to make informed purchases that are quick to recoup their costs.

Yet, the journey has not been entirely straightforward. Romano navigates a hectic schedule handling anywhere from two to eight clients each week, managing both pickups and deliveries while also dedicating time to thoroughly clean inventory and set up for events. The reality of running her own business involves a great deal of hard work and physical responsibility, as Romano learned after sustaining an injury but still having to fulfill her commitments.

“It’s a lot of work, and it’s all on you. When life happens, you still have to deliver,” she noted. The time management aspect of her business has proven to be challenging. Although starting the business was relatively seamless, carving out time for its growth among her corporate responsibilities and family life has been demanding.

Romano credits her husband for stepping in to share household duties, allowing her to pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations. “Building the business is something I’d often prefer to do at night instead of watching television,” she explained, highlighting her dedication to achieving her goals.

Despite the impressive trajectory of Little Party Co. and the potential to transition to self-employment, Romano remains firmly committed to her corporate role. She harbours a genuine affinity for the company she works for and does not foresee a departure into full-time entrepreneurship. Instead, she sees her event rental business as a creative outlet that complements her professional life.

“Little Party Co. provides me with a unique challenge and financial flexibility to create more opportunities for my family,” Romano stated. Her ability to juggle both careers exemplifies her strong work ethic and commitment to what she loves.

As the demand for her rental services continues to rise, Romano remains focused on nurturing her business without compromising her established career. It is a delicate balance, marked by determination and passion, as she embraces the possibilities that both her corporate and entrepreneurial paths offer.

With ambitions for further growth, Romano’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential for success when one pursues their dreams without losing sight of what they value in life. As she continues to thrive in both domains, her journey encourages others to find ways to merge their ambitions with their personal and professional commitments.