How to Grow Your Event Business Without Quitting Your Day Job
Are you trying to build your event business while juggling a full-time job? You're not alone. In a recent episode of The Hustle Free Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jese Gary sat down with Aarika Rose Cofer to talk about what it takes to grow a sustainable, passion-driven business without burning out.
The conversation touched on common struggles—lack of time, unclear direction, and burnout—and offered practical tools and mindset shifts that help side-hustlers make real progress without quitting their 9–5. This blog draws inspiration from that conversation, offering tips for event professionals who want to do the same.
Why the Event Industry Works for Side Hustlers
The event industry is uniquely suited for people growing businesses on the side. Most event-related work happens during weekends, evenings, or in defined project cycles, which makes it ideal for professionals who have full-time weekday jobs.
Additionally, event planning allows you to specialize in specific event types—such as baby showers, corporate mixers, or holiday activations—so you can scale gradually while gaining experience and credibility in your niche.
Whether you're a corporate employee, educator, or creative professional, event planning can offer a fulfilling and profitable outlet for your passion, all without requiring you to leap into full-time entrepreneurship right away.
Key Takeaways from the Podcast Episode
1. Start with the Right Mindset: Running a business on the side requires a mindset focused on purpose and sustainability—not hustle for hustle's sake. Aarika emphasizes the importance of knowing your "why" and setting realistic goals.
2. Transitioning from Weddings to Corporate Events: Aarika shares how she pivoted her focus to corporate events for better work-life alignment. Shifting your niche can open new doors and better fit your schedule.
3. Set Boundaries Early: To protect your time and energy, establish non-negotiable work hours for your business. This helps prevent burnout and builds consistency.
4. Use Tools That Support Your Workflow: From HoneyBook for proposals to Google Calendar for time-blocking, the right tools help streamline your side hustle and keep things manageable alongside a day job.
5. Focus on Systems: Success doesn't come from doing everything yourself. Automate tasks, outsource when needed, and create repeatable processes to grow sustainably.
6. Stay Encouraged Through the Highs and Lows: Entrepreneurship comes with emotional highs and lows. Having a support system, staying grounded in your passion, and giving yourself grace is key.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing a Side Hustle
Many aspiring eventpreneurs fall into the trap of trying to do too much too fast. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
Not validating your niche: Focus on one specific audience or service instead of trying to be everything to everyone.
Skipping systems: Without repeatable workflows, you'll burn out fast. Use CRMs, email templates, and checklists.
Underpricing yourself: Even if you’re new, you still have expenses. Make sure your pricing reflects your value.
Overbooking: Just because you're available on weekends doesn’t mean you should take every job.
Avoiding these mistakes allows you to grow at a healthy pace—one that complements, not conflicts with, your full-time job.
Quick Wins for Event Planners Working Full-Time
If you only have 5–10 hours a week to work on your business, these quick wins can make a big difference:
Batch content creation: Schedule time once a week to write social captions, emails, or prep your newsletter.
Use auto-responders: Set client expectations with automated replies that include your availability and response times.
Repurpose testimonials: Use past feedback to create new marketing content with minimal effort.
Outsource your design work: Hire a freelancer to help with brochures or social posts, freeing up your time for client work.
Schedule admin days: Dedicate one evening a week to bookkeeping, planning, and checking in on goals.
Final Thoughts
Building an event business while working full-time isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely possible. The insights from Aarika and Jese show that with the right systems, boundaries, and tools in place, you can grow something meaningful without sacrificing your peace.
Whether you're just getting started or in the middle of a busy season, remember that structure and sustainability matter more than speed. The long game is where lasting success lives.
🎧 Listen to the Episode: How to Grow an Event Business Without Quitting Your Day Job
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