Podcast Title: The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz
Episode Title: IT'S GIVING PARTY VIBE SIDE HUSTLE
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Hosts: Kelly Stumpe and Lizz St. John
Introduction
In the episode titled "IT'S GIVING PARTY VIBE SIDE HUSTLE," hosts Kelly Stumpe and Lizz St. John delve into the vibrant world of side hustles tailored for party enthusiasts. Known for their insightful reviews of cars from a millennial mom's perspective, Kelly and Lizz expand their repertoire by exploring entrepreneurial ventures that resonate with their audience's love for celebrations and gatherings.
Overcoming Recording Challenges
The episode begins with Kelly and Lizz recording from Kelly's local library, navigating unexpected interruptions and technical glitches. Kelly humorously shares her concerns about maintaining a quiet environment for the podcast:
Kelly [00:38]: "I don't believe. I thought this was, like, a soundproof meeting room... people keep walking by."
This segment sets a relatable tone for listeners who juggle multiple responsibilities while managing their passions.
Acknowledging the Texas Floods
Before transitioning to the main topic, Kelly and Lizz take a heartfelt moment to address the recent floods in Texas, expressing solidarity and empathy:
Kelly [04:38]: "Whenever we hear of any tragedy... it's really important that as mothers, we remember the importance of our job."
The sisters emphasize the delicate balance between grieving and fulfilling their roles as present and engaged mothers, offering a poignant reflection on resilience and compassion.
Introducing Side Hustle Summer: Party Vibe Edition
Shifting gears, Kelly and Lizz announce a special segment titled Side Hustle Summer: Party Vibe Edition. This edition spotlights two innovative side hustles that cater to party planning and entertainment, aligning perfectly with the summer's festive spirit.
Guest Segment 1: Balloon Vibes Girls with Maddie and Kendall
Guests: Maddie and Kendall from Balloon Vibes Girls
Journey into Balloon Decor
Maddie and Kendall share their inspiring journey of transforming a casual balloon arrangement for their children's birthdays into a flourishing business. Moving to Charlotte and bonding over shared interests, they decided to formalize their passion after receiving enthusiastic feedback from family and neighbors.
Kendall [22:21]: "It was my son's birthday. Maddie was doing balloons for her daughter's birthday. We were just helping each other."
Building a Portfolio and Growing the Business
The duo discusses the importance of starting small, leveraging personal networks, and gradually building a professional portfolio. They highlight the effectiveness of word-of-mouth referrals and social media in expanding their client base without heavy initial advertising.
Maddie [25:50]: "Almost all of our business has been word of mouth, people referring us."
Expert Tips and Pricing Strategies
Maddie and Kendall offer valuable tips for aspiring balloon decorators, emphasizing techniques like creating balloon bundles and ensuring balloons are rounded for a polished look. They also outline their pricing model, which includes charging per foot for installations and offering various packages to accommodate different event sizes and budgets.
Maddie [26:22]: "Ditch the balloon tape... Create bundles of balloons. Take two balloons, tie them together, and make a duplet."
Advice for Beginners
Reflecting on their initial challenges, the pair advises new entrepreneurs to progress at their own pace, prioritize their families, and avoid overcommitting too soon.
Maddie [32:03]: "You don't have to do everything at once... it's okay if your growth is not the same as someone else's."
Guest Segment 2: Ponytail Parties with Suzanne Stowe
Guest: Suzanne Stowe from Ponytail Parties
Creating Unique Party Experiences
Suzanne introduces her side hustle, Ponytail Parties, which offers petting zoos and pony rides for children's birthday parties and private events. She elaborates on the themed packages available, such as unicorn, cowboy, and superhero, designed to enchant young guests.
Suzanne [35:32]: "With our ponies, we'll put a little mask over their ears... it's very cute."
Starting the Business
Transitioning from her career in teaching, Suzanne explains how financial necessities prompted her to start Ponytail Parties. She discusses the initial investments, such as acquiring ponies and other animals, and highlights the importance of liability insurance in this niche market.
Suzanne [36:41]: "I started with our llama... It's pretty heavy up front when you buy everything at first."
Operational Insights and Challenges
Suzanne shares insights into managing live animals at events, stressing the significance of proper training and animal care. She recounts a memorable incident where her ponies remained calm amidst unexpected disruptions, showcasing the professionalism and reliability of her services.
Suzanne [37:42]: "One time a balloon popped near a pony, and they didn't even flinch. They handled it like champs."
Tips for Success
Drawing from her experiences, Suzanne advises future side hustlers to ensure thorough preparation, maintain animal welfare, and adapt services to meet client needs effectively.
Hosts' Personal Touch: Culinary Delights
Interspersed between guest segments, Kelly and Lizz share personal anecdotes and favorite recipes, adding a warm, relatable layer to the discussion. Kelly recounts her successful fish fry, highlighting the joys and challenges of hosting:
Kelly [07:00]: "I just patted it dry, didn't let Tyler help me with that part, and then I just fried it."
Similarly, Suzanne offers her beloved cheeseburger soup recipe, fostering a sense of community through shared experiences and culinary tips.
Suzanne [40:51]: "It's ground beef, potatoes... it's 10 out of 10. Delicious."
Closing Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, Kelly and Lizz reflect on the diverse side hustles discussed, encouraging listeners to explore their passions and consider creative ways to enhance their own events and gatherings. The hosts reiterate the importance of balancing personal growth with family responsibilities, leaving listeners inspired and motivated to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace Serendipity: Kelly and Lizz illustrate how spontaneous collaborations and shared passions can lead to successful business ventures.
- Start Small and Grow Organically: Both guest segments emphasize the value of leveraging personal networks and gradually expanding services based on demand and capacity.
- Prioritize Quality and Professionalism: Whether it's mastering balloon techniques or ensuring animal welfare, attention to detail sets successful side hustles apart.
- Balance is Crucial: Maintaining a harmonious balance between entrepreneurship and family life is essential for sustained success and personal well-being.
- Community and Support: The importance of community support, whether through word-of-mouth referrals or shared experiences, plays a pivotal role in the growth of side hustles.
Notable Quotes:
- Kelly [04:38]: "As mothers, through grieving and staying present, we navigate our roles with grace."
- Maddie [26:22]: "Create bundles of balloons instead of using balloon tape for a fuller look."
- Suzanne [37:42]: "Our ponies handled the unexpected burst balloon like champs."
For more insights and detailed discussions on side hustles and motherhood, subscribe to The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz on your favorite podcast platform.