Today, I have a fun guest post from my friend Cody Berman. Cody is a digital nomad who quit his corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. He started selling digital products in 2018 and became hooked after earning $700+ in one week. He now helps other entrepreneurs and creators monetize their businesses through digital products….
Today, I have a fun guest post from my friend Cody Berman. Cody is a digital nomad who quit his corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. He started selling digital products in 2018 and became hooked after earning $700+ in one week. He now helps other entrepreneurs and creators monetize their businesses through digital products. He’s been featured here on Making Sense of Cents before and you can find that article here – How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
—
I used to be a chronic side hustler. At one point I had 20+ income streams. Sounds great, right? Except it wasn’t.
I was all over the place, trying every side hustle imaginable – delivering UberEats, editing podcasts, building websites, selling discs, running affiliate campaigns, writing articles, buffing boats, you name it. But most of the time, I felt like I was stuck trading my time for money.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Don’t get me wrong, the money was great for some of these side hustles, but if I didn’t work I didn’t get paid. At one point, I made $500 for writing a single blog article! But once the article was delivered and the invoice was paid, I had to hunt for my next gig and turn in the work to make my next dollar.
At one point, I co-founded a disc golf manufacturing business. I thought that this business was going to be my golden ticket. For those who don’t know, disc golf is similar to ball golf, except instead of hitting a ball into a hole with a club, you are throwing a plastic “disc” into a basket. Our company manufactured those discs.
We started scaling pretty quickly and within two years we were selling our products in all 50 states and 20+ countries. On paper, everything looked amazing. But behind the scenes, we constantly had product issues, shipping delays, mismanaged inventory, and everything that else could possibly go wrong with a physical product business.
I was feeling tired and burnt out and looking for something new.
Fast forward to early 2019 and my friend Julie, another side hustler, told me that she had been selling printables on Etsy. She had spent about 60 hours creating a bunch of digital products (a.k.a. printables) and had made over $5,000 so far. The words “so far” were the ones that got me hooked.
Unlike my my physical products business where each unit had to be manufactured, quality tested, packaged, and shipped, these “digital products” sounded different. By the way Julie was describing it, I could create a digital product once and keep making money from it without much additional effort. This sounded ten times better than all of the side hustles I had tried (and way more passive).
The only problem was that I didn’t really have any clue what a “printable” was… and I had never even been on Etsy. And at this point, you might be thinking the same thing.
What exactly are printables? Basically, they’re digital files that customers can download and print at home. Think cards, planners, calendars, games, gift tags – the possibilities are endless!
The best part? Once you’ve created a printable, you can sell it an unlimited number of times without ever having to worry about restocking inventory or shipping costs.
Now back to my story. Even though I didn’t really know how to create printables, or what printables to sell, or anything about graphic design for that matter, I decided to give it a shot. If Julie could do it, I could do it, right?
Wrong.
My first ~20 printables were absolutely terrible, but I listed them on Etsy anyway. You’ll never guess what happened next. I got a whopping… zero sales.
OK, maybe you did guess that.
Between my zero graphic design skills, lack of product research, and unfamiliarity with the Etsy platform, I definitely wasn’t setting any sales records.
But after some trial and error – well, a lot of trial and error – I managed to come up with some pretty decent-looking printables. I focused on creating seasonal products, a strategy I often recommend to beginners. And let me tell you, it paid off big time.
In December and January, I created dozens of Valentine’s Day printables since I had heard that it was one of the biggest holidays on Etsy. Some of my designs included Valentine’s cards, love coupons, editable love notes, custom photo cards, and more.
And finally, after months of crickets, it seemed like the algorithm was working in my favor, with tons of people searching for Valentine’s gifts and cards for their loved ones. The real excitement started on February 9th, just five days before the big holiday.
I remember that week vividly because while all this was happening, I was actually skiing in Lake Tahoe. And on February 9th, when I checked my phone in the ski lodge at lunch, I had made over $100… that day.
The entire week continued to be extremely profitable and I ended the week with $718 in sales from just a handful of products that took me a couple of hours to create. It was the first time I experienced true passive income. The only part that wasn’t passive was answering the occasional customer question, which took less than five minutes per day from my phone.
That experience was a game-changer for me. It was the moment I realized the true potential of selling digital products on Etsy. And I owe a big thank you to Julie, who introduced me to this side hustle and helped me see that I could create products that continued to make money long after I’d created them.
Let me be clear – building a successful Etsy shop isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. There’s work involved in getting your shop up and running, from creating high-quality designs to optimizing your listings and promoting your products. But trust me when I say that the effort is worth it.
Once your Etsy shop is up and running, it can become a passive income machine. Your printables can sell for years and years after you list them. That next Valentine’s Day, I was in Aruba for a wedding event, and the same exact designs that earned me $718 in Lake Tahoe, earned me hundreds again that next year.
These Valentine’s Day printables have been sitting in my Etsy shop for years at this point, and they continue to make sales every single year. Compared to selling physical products, delivering UberEats on a bike, editing podcasts, or writing blog posts, this side hustle is so much more passive.
If you want to learn more, I recommend signing up for the Free Training Workshop: Earn Money Selling Printables. This free workshop will teach you how to get started selling printables. You will learn different ideas for printables to sell, how to get started on Etsy, and how to actually make sales.
Are you interested in selling printables online? What questions do you have?
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Recommended reading: Gold City Ventures Review: E-Printables Course Review
Prepare to elevate your living spaces just in time for the holiday season with Decor Days—an exclusive online-only sales event offering The Home Depot’s biggest style savings of the year. Running from Oct. 5 – Oct. 9, 2023, this five-day extravaganza will feature deals on quality furniture, stylish home decor and more.
A Seamless Shopping Experience
Decor Days is a testament to The Home Depot’s commitment to offering a seamless, interconnected shopping experience. The event is designed to meet customers where, when and how they want to shop. With Decor Days, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Wide Selection: Discover everything you need for whole-home decor and styling ahead of the holidays.
Convenient Pickup and Delivery: Take advantage of the retailer’s everyday free Buy Online, Pick Up in Store (BOPIS) service, as well as free and flexible delivery on more than 10,000 online decor items.
Hassle-Free Returns: If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it with ease in-store or by mail.
Transform Your Space
During this limited-time event, customers can take advantage of significant discounts on a variety of home furnishings and finishing touches for every hosting need. Here are some highlights:
80 % Off Home Decorators Collection – Gold Metal Wall Sconce Candle Holder
70% Off TableCraft 3-Piece Enamelware Mixing Bowl Set
63% Off Harper & Bright Designs Gray Twin Size Metal Triple Bunk Bed with Wood Decoration
65% Off Home Decorators Collection Purcell 3-Piece Washed Denim Botanical King Duvet Cover Set
60% Off Artistic Weavers Demeter Ivory 8 ft. x 10 ft. Abstract Area Rug
58% Off Gotham Steel Hammered Copper 10-Piece Aluminum Non-Stick Cookware Set
Visit HomeDepot.com/decor from Oct. 5 – Oct. 9, 2023, and seize the opportunity to transform your living spaces with incredible style savings. Let Decor Days be your guide to creating a home that reflects your unique taste and personality.
Florida is a popular destination for beaches, theme parks, rocket launches and more. However, one of the more underrated destinations in this state is Fort Walton Beach. Let’s take a look at how to get there, the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach and where to stay once you arrive.
The best things to do in Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach offers many things to do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re visiting as a family, with friends or on a couple’s getaway, you’ll find plenty of attractions, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to fit your budget.
1. Paddleboard along the coast
Fort Walton Beach offers calm, clear waters in its bays, which is perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This activity is one the best things to do in Fort Walton Beach whether you’re an expert or a beginner.
Some of the locals’ favorite spots include Norriego Point, Okaloosa Island Beach and Gulf Islands National Seashore. If you don’t have your own equipment, local businesses rent boards to visitors wanting to enjoy the sun and water.
2. Visit the Air Force Armament Museum
For the AV geek or military buff in your family, the Air Force Armament Museum is a must. This military museum features over 29 different aircraft ranging in age from the War II-era to present day. Inside, you’ll also find exhibits featuring hundreds of pieces of armament, including bombs and missiles.
It’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers because admission is free. It’s open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., including most federal holidays.
3. Learn local history at Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center
The Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center is the place to be for visitors wanting to learn about local history. This museum showcases the area’s history from 12,000 B.C. through the 1950s.
The park includes numerous attractions, such as Indian Temple Mound Museum, Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum, Garnier Post Office Museum, Fort Walton Temple Mound and the Civil War Exhibit Building.
Purchase your admission inside the Indian Temple Mound Museum for $5 per person. One ticket includes admission to all of the attractions listed above. The museums open at 10 a.m. and close by 3 p.m. (or earlier). It is closed on Sundays, Mondays and all major holidays.
4. Step into the Norriego Point tide pools
The Norriego Point tide pools offer a shallow water experience for visitors of all ages. The tide pools are cordoned off from open waters to provide a safe space for small children and inexperienced swimmers.
In the tide pools, you’ll discover numerous types of fish, hermit crabs and more. Learn about the local sea life up close. These also offer a unique vantage point to watch the boats coming into the harbor.
There is no cost to visit the Norriego Point tide pools. However, parking is limited, so consider parking at nearby O’steen Beach or on the local streets.
5. Feed an alligator at Gator Beach
Another activity at Fort Walton Beach is seeing the alligators at Gator Beach. There is no admission fee, and its considered the largest alligator park on the Emerald Coast.
This attraction features hundreds of alligators; for a small fee, visitors can feed the gators. If you’re brave enough, you can even take a picture while holding a live alligator. There are also multiple shows and tours throughout the day to learn about this local species.
6. Experiment at the Emerald Coast Science Center
The Emerald Coast Science Center in Fort Walton Beach is one of many attractions for families with young children.
This interactive, hands-on museum features numerous exhibits for guests, including dinosaur fossils, robotics, chemistry demonstrations and a handful of outdoor exhibits. Plus, there are additional areas with live birds, mammals and reptiles to round out your science adventure.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $12 per person, and children two and under are free.
7. Camp at Henderson Beach State Park
While many travelers prefer a nice hotel, others are looking for a more rustic experience. Camping at Henderson Beach State Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the outdoors and enjoy 30-foot sand dunes and warm Gulf Coast waters.
The state park offers 60 campsites, fishing opportunities and a nature trail. It’s adjacent to the beach, and campers can access the water using the boardwalk.
Visitors can make reservations up to 10 months in advance (11 months for Florida residents). Campsite prices range from $16 to $42 per night and cabins are $30 to $160 a night. Florida State Parks also charges a nonrefundable fee of $6.70 per reservation. You can book your stay online or over the phone at 800-326-3521.
8. Become a mermaid at Reefs & Wrecks Remembered
If you or your child has ever dreamed of becoming a mermaid, this dream can become reality at Reefs and Wrecks. This PADI-certified company offers three different types of mermaid experiences for different levels of swimmers.
The entry level course is the Discover Mermaid experience in a shallow pool. For experienced divers, the Advanced Mermaid course includes two sessions in open water where you can test out your mermaid skills. Prices start at $145 and go up to $450, depending on the course selected.
9. Go fishing at The Island Pier
Throw out a line or just enjoy the views from The Island Pier. This pier stretches 1,262 into the Gulf of Mexico, so it offers unparalleled views of the beach and water.
Local marine life includes dolphins, sea turtles, herons and pelicans. Visitors can purchase a daily fishing license, buy lures and tackle or rent equipment from shops on the pier.
If you’re unable to catch anything, don’t worry about going hungry. The pier’s shop serves sandwiches, ice cream, snacks and drinks.
10. Stroll the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk
Along the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of dining options, gift shops and activities. There are numerous restaurants to choose from based on your budget and appetite.
Plus, visitors can enjoy the children’s playground, splash pad and sand volleyball courts. During the summer, stick around after dark for the fireworks show on Wednesday evenings.
11. Shop local at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market
Support local farmers, artisans and crafters by shopping at the Downtown Fort Walton Beach Farmers Market. The market is open year-round on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. It operates from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., so arrive early for the best selection.
The Okaloosa Farmers Market is another option where you can buy local goods. It operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
12. Go snorkeling at Stingray Bay
The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is a unique experience for travelers. The park offers numerous animal encounters, including dolphins, harbor seals, penguins and stingrays.
Ticket prices are $30 or less, depending on your age. Florida residents receive a discount.
One of the experiences available is to snorkel in Stingray Bay. For an additional $59, you’ll get 30 minutes to snorkel and interact with cownose rays, small sharks, groupers and numerous fish species.
13. Experience the fun at Crab Island
One of the top things to do in Fort Walton Beach is Crab Island, which takes advantage of the shallow waters and raised sandbars along the Gulf Coast.
In most places, the water is only one to four feet deep, so it’s safe even if you don’t know how to swim. Visitors will find obstacle courses, floating bars and more for fun in the sun.
Only accessible by boat, many people rent one or bring their own to visit Crab Island. Some arrive on pontoon boats so they have a place to rest and relax during the day. There are also tour and water taxi options.
While there is food available from floating food vendors and restaurants, you cannot purchase alcohol on Crab Island. You’ll have to bring your own if you want to enjoy an adult beverage.
Where is Fort Walton Beach, Florida?
Fort Walton Beach is located on the Florida panhandle, across the Choctawhatchee Bay from Destin. The city is about two hours east of Mobile, Alabama, and about an hour west of Panama City Beach, Florida.
How to get to Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Fort Walton Beach is a popular road trip destination for travelers in the South. However, the local Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is also an option for those who wish to fly. The airport is serviced by Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and Sun Country Airlines.
There are numerous nonstop flights from airports across the country, including Boston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Minneapolis, Las Vegas and Washington-National.
Where to stay in Fort Walton Beach
Travelers have a variety of lodging options when booking their vacation to Fort Walton Beach. Here are a few from several major hotel chains, along with how many points are needed to book a room there in 2024.
Tru by Hilton Fort Walton Beach: Redemptions from 22,000 to 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Holiday Inn Express Fort Walton Beach Central: Redemptions from 14,000 to 43,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Fort Walton Beach-West Destin: Redemptions from 32,000 to 48,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
You can earn a large sum of points quickly by getting the sign-up bonus for new hotel and travel credit cards. Generally speaking, to earn a bonus, you need to spend a certain amount within a specific time frame after signing up for the card.
Top hotel credit cards
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
on Chase’s website
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
on Chase’s website
Annual fee
Sign-up bonus
Limited time offer! Earn 5 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card.
Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.
Earn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Still not sure?
Once you reach that threshold, you’ll earn a bulk sum of points or miles that can be used toward award redemptions.
Other accommodations in Fort Walton Beach can be booked through Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo using OneKey Rewards.
Things to do in Fort Walton Beach recapped
Beach vacationers should consider visiting Fort Walton Beach in the Florida panhandle. There are many fun things to do for adults and kids alike. Learn about the city’s history, make new friends with local wildlife, go fishing and enjoy a variety of water activities.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free. Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home….
Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free.
Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home.
It doesn’t matter if you’re skilled or just getting started – there are ways to make money without paying anything at the beginning. You can use your creativity and skills in things like making content, providing digital services, and selling stuff online to make a steady income.
I personally have made money online in many different ways without paying anything to get started, so I know that this truly does exist.
Best Ways To Make Money Online Without Paying Anything
Here’s a quick summary of my favorite ways to make money without investment:
Best way to make money online freelancing – Proofreading
My favorite way to make money online for free – Blogging
Best way to make money online for passive income – Selling printables
Best way to make money online for those who like numbers – Bookkeeping
Below are the best ways to make money online without paying anything.
1. Blogging
Blogging is exactly what I started years ago, and I didn’t pay any money in the beginning to get started.
If you want to make money with a laptop, then this is what I recommend.
I began Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and it has helped me earn over $5,000,000 since then. I started my blog on a whim to share my own money journey, not even knowing that people could make money from blogs or how to make a successful one.
Now, it’s my full-time job!
Eventually, you will have costs with a blog, just like with most of the businesses listed below, if you want to grow and make more money. But, the expenses are low compared to how much money you may be able to make.
So, what’s a blog? A blog is like this content you’re reading now – it’s writing on a website. You can blog about something you’re passionate about, something you know a lot about, or even something you want to learn more about (people enjoy following firsthand journeys!).
There are many different niches (topics) that you can write about too, such as travel, personal finance, home, lifestyle, family, food, and more.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
10
Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
2. Printables
Selling printables is a way to make passive income from home without upfront costs.
This is because printables are digital files that you can download and print at home. You only need to make one digital file for each product, and then you can sell it multiple times.
They can be things like grocery shopping lists, invites, thank you cards, digital art, or gift tags.
I have bought many printables myself, and many others do too. Recently, I purchased a printable to help teach my daughter the alphabet. It was a useful tool, and I could easily print it at home.
You can learn more about this at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Proofreading
If you like finding mistakes in written content and want to start a business without spending a lot of money, then proofreading might be a good choice for you. This can be a part-time job or a full-time career working from home.
Many proofreaders earn around $40,000 a year or even more.
Proofreaders look for errors in articles, ads, books, student papers, emails, transcripts, and more.
To become a proofreader, all you need is a laptop or tablet, an internet connection, and the ability to spot mistakes and errors. So, you probably already have everything you need to get started.
I recommend signing up for a free 76-minute workshop, where you can learn more about becoming a proofreader. You can sign up for the free How To Become a Proofreader workshop here.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Proofreader And Work From Anywhere
10
This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
4. Freelance writing
Freelance writing is a great way to make money online without any upfront costs, as you don’t need any expensive equipment to get started.
A freelance writer is someone who writes for different places like websites, blogs, magazines, ads, books, and other things.
I have been a freelance writer for many years now, all from my laptop. I really enjoy being a freelance writer, and I have many friends who do this as well. I started this job because I wanted to make money from home and not spend money trying to figure it out. And, it worked!
This job can earn you more than $50,000 a year. Some of my friends who are freelance writers make over $200,000 a year.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
5. Opening an online store
Starting an online store is a way to make money without upfront costs, and sites like Etsy and Shopify make this possible.
On Etsy, you can sell things like handmade or vintage items and craft supplies. This online marketplace is great if you’re creative and want to sell unique, one-of-a-kind products. Shopify, on the other hand, has more flexibility in what you can sell and allows you to build your personal storefront.
There are many different types of things you can sell, such as digital products like ebooks or web design templates, which don’t require inventory and can be sold repeatedly without additional cost. Physical products, on the other hand, can also be sold but keep in mind that you’ll need a plan for shipping, and you may have to spend money in order to have them as inventory to list on your store.
Another idea is dropshipping. This is a business model where you don’t need to keep inventory or ship products yourself. Instead, you work with suppliers who take care of inventory and shipping for you.
Below are some ideas for things you could sell through an online dropshipping store:
Travel items such as portable luggage scales, neck pillows, or travel cubes
Fitness equipment like yoga mats, weights, or resistance bands
Sustainable products such as reusable utensils, bamboo toothbrushes, tote bags, or eco-friendly cleaning supplies
Camping-related items like hammocks, lanterns, cookware sets, and survival kits
Jewelry such as stackable rings, layered bracelets, anklets, and statement earrings
6. Print-on-demand
Similar to the above, print-on-demand (POD) is a business model where you sell your custom designs on products like T-shirts, mugs, and books, but only print them once an order is placed.
It’s a popular way to start an online business with minimal upfront costs because you don’t have to worry about inventory. Your job is to create the designs and set up your online store.
Once a customer buys a product, the order goes straight to your POD supplier who prints and ships it under your brand name.
7. Stock photography
Stock photography is a way to make money online without any cash up front. If you already have a camera or even just a cell phone, you can get started selling stock photographs.
You are simply taking photos, putting them on a stock photo website, and selling them to people and companies.
People buy stock images from websites like Shutterstock, Getty Images, or Adobe Stock for many reasons, such as adding them to their websites, articles, blog posts, advertisements, and social media.
You can sell many types of pictures, including travel, business, people, food, animals, health, fashion, sports, and more.
For example, if I write a blog post about making money with a laptop, I might buy a stock photo of a laptop. Or, if I need a picture related to making money while traveling, I’d find a picture of a vacation to include in my blog post. Stock images can make a blog post more enjoyable to read.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
8. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a way for you to earn money by promoting products or services online, and you don’t need anything special to get started.
With affiliate marketing, if your friend or follower buys a product through a referral link you share, you get paid a commission – it’s as simple as that.
First, pick products you love and are sure others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program. Each program gives you an affiliate link. This link tracks who clicks and buys from your recommendation.
Your job is to share your affiliate link with as many interested people as possible. You could write about it on your blog, make videos, or even just share it on social media.
I recommend signing up for Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook to learn more.
9. Playing games and watching videos for money
There are lots of money-making apps that let you earn cash by playing games or watching videos on your phone.
These apps pay you real money because they make money from ads and in-app purchases. To get you to keep playing, they give you a share of their earnings. For watching videos, the sites reward you with points for watching sponsored videos, and these videos can range from ads to short clips.
Now, these won’t make you rich, but it is a way to make money from your phone without upfront costs.
Here’s a quick list of the top video and game apps that pay real cash:
KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Recommended reading: 15 Ways To Make Money From Your Phone
10. Market research and focus groups
If you love sharing your opinions, market research and focus groups are great ways for you to earn cash online without paying anything. This kind of work connects you with companies seeking feedback on their products or services. It’s all about understanding what you think as a consumer.
Lots of companies want to hear from people like you and me, and you can share your opinions with them using just a laptop or phone, some free time, and a good internet connection.
When I was paying off my student loans, I took online surveys almost every day. I did them before work, during lunch, or after work. Even though they didn’t make me a lot of money, they were flexible because I could do them whenever I had time. Plus, they were really easy and didn’t require much thinking!
Here are some survey companies I suggest:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
PrizeRebel
User Interviews – This one pays on average around $60 per assignment (much higher than the rest, but it is a little more work for participants as these are usually video calls or on the phone)
Signing up for these survey sites is free, and typically, they pay about $1 to $3 for each survey you finish.
11. Online tutoring
As an online tutor, you get to teach students from the comfort of your home. Your job is to share your knowledge and help in a subject you know well. You don’t have to worry about traveling or a strict schedule; you can choose when to do your online tutoring gig.
You can make between $30 and $60 per hour or more, depending on the subject’s difficulty and your expertise. And you don’t need to spend any money up front, so it’s a way to earn online without extra costs.
As a tutor, you might spend 30 minutes to an hour giving a lesson, answering questions online, or working one-on-one with a student in a video lesson.
12. Virtual assistant job
You can make money from home as a virtual assistant by doing administrative tasks for clients online. You don’t need anything to get started other than a computer or laptop.
Virtual assistants, or VAs, do tasks similar to administrative assistants, but they work from home or anywhere with internet.
Virtual assistants do things like:
Email management – Answering and organizing emails
Calendar management – Scheduling appointments, meetings, and events
Administrative support – Preparing reports, presentations, and documents
Travel arrangements – Booking flights, hotels, and transportation for business trips
Internet research – Doing online research on topics to write about, competitors, products, etc.
Personal tasks – Booking appointments or making dinner reservations
I’ve been a virtual assistant before (it was actually one of my first online jobs, and I liked how I didn’t have to spend money to become a VA), and I also have one who works for me, so I know how useful they can be! Plus, you don’t need anything expensive to get started.
13. Social media influencer
Being a social media influencer is a real way to make money online without any initial cost, and plenty of people have started their social media accounts by spending absolutely $0. In fact, I think most people start as just a hobby!
You can start with just your phone, by taking pictures and sharing your thoughts on social media accounts like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
You can earn money as a social media influencer through sponsored posts, where brands pay you to promote their products or services in your posts. You can also make money through affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions from sales made through your referral links. Plus, you can sell digital products like ebooks or online courses.
I’ve been a social media influencer for years, monetizing my Instagram and Facebook accounts. It’s allowed me to collaborate with brands I love and promote products I already use.
14. Transcriptionist
Becoming a transcriptionist can be a good choice to make money online without upfront costs. This is something that you can learn to do, and transcriptionists usually make around $15 per hour.
As a transcriptionist, you can earn money from home by turning audio files or video files into written documents. Clients can include marketers, authors, filmmakers, academics, speakers, and conferences.
To find transcription jobs, some places to start include:
Rev – Transcribers on Rev earn an average of $245 per month, with top earners making up to $1,495.
CrowdSurf – CrowdSurf pays for short transcription tasks, which are great for those looking for quick, manageable projects.
TranscribeMe – This platform is good for beginners as they give training and only require a reliable internet connection and computer.
Recommended reading: 18 Top Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners
10
In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
15. Video gaming livestreams
Yes, you can make money online with no upfront costs by live streaming (such as a video game that you like to play). Eventually, you may want to upgrade to higher-quality equipment, but you can start right away with what you already have – your computer and phone.
Twitch is a website where you can make money by playing video games, talking with viewers in real time through live streams, and more.
As your viewer count grows, you can start making money. Streamers can earn through ways such as:
Subscriptions – Your fans can pay a monthly fee to support you as subscribers.
Donations – Viewers can send you tips if they enjoy your stream.
Advertisements – You can get paid from ads that run on your live stream.
Sponsorships – Companies may pay you to promote their products.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
16. YouTube
Starting a YouTube channel is a popular way to make money online without any initial investment. You can record videos from your phone or camera, and you don’t really need anything else to get started in the beginning.
You can start a YouTube channel about many different topics like finance, home, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost anything nowadays, and there’s still space for more!
In your YouTube videos, you can include links to products you recommend, earn money from ads that play during your videos, get paid by brands to feature their products, and even sell your own stuff.
17. Freelance graphic design
As a graphic designer, you can earn money online without investing any money up front. You can create designs such as logos, social media graphics, and branding materials for clients.
To start, you will most likely want to create a simple but impactful portfolio to display your work. This is your opportunity to show your abilities to potential clients, so you will want to include your favorite projects and what reflects your design style.
You can also sign up on freelance sites like Fiverr where businesses look for designers like you.
18. Virtual bookkeeping
Bookkeepers manage financial records, track expenses, and generate financial reports; it requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
This job typically pays more than $40,000 a year. Plus, many types of businesses require bookkeepers, making it a great career choice with opportunities for growth.
Even better, you can do this job from home using your computer and the internet.
Yes, you don’t need a degree to be a bookkeeper. You can start by learning basic bookkeeping and the software most businesses use.
If you want to become a bookkeeper, there is a free workshop all about finding a virtual bookkeeping job, and you can sign up for free here.
10
This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
19. Write an ebook
Writing an ebook can be a way to make money without needing upfront investment, other than your time and effort. This is something you can do yourself too, such as through the self-publishing route on Amazon.
Ebooks are digital books that you can download and read on devices like tablets, phones, e-readers, or laptops. They’ve become very popular because they’re affordable and easy to access.
I’ve purchased many ebooks myself, ranging from nonfiction to fiction, and many, many other people have as well.
Recommended reading: How this person is making $200 a day in book sales passively.
20. Online travel agent
A travel agent is a professional who helps people plan and book trips, vacations, and other travel arrangements. They give their expertise and support in finding the best deals on transportation, accommodations, and activities, considering their clients’ preferences, budgets, and needs.
Travel agents also give helpful advice on destinations, suggest itineraries, arrange tours and excursions, and handle logistics such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and travel insurance.
There are many different kinds of niches you can sell vacations and trips in, such as luxury travel, cruises, Disney, budget travel, and adventure holidays.
21. Write book reviews
If you enjoy reading and talking about books, you can make money by writing reviews at home. Authors and publishers want to hear your honest opinions because they help other readers choose their next book. Readers also like these reviews, so it benefits everyone involved.
You don’t need anything other than your computer (or even just your cell phone) to write the reviews. Many times, the book is given to you to review, so you don’t even have to pay for that.
This is typically more of a side gig for spare cash and free books.
Here are some websites where you can make money online by writing book reviews:
OnlineBookClub.org – They give free books for your first book review (and no other payment). After your first review, you can earn cash for each review, usually between $5 and $60.
Kirkus Media – They look for reviewers for both English and Spanish books, particularly in the Kirkus indie section. Reviews involve around 350-word summaries due two weeks after receiving the book. They cover all genres, with over 10,000 books reviewed annually.
Upwork – Create a profile as a book reviewer on this freelance platform. You can choose projects that interest you and set your own rates.
The US Review of Books – They hire freelance writers for 250- to 300-word reviews that go beyond summarizing to provide insights into the book. To join, submit a resume, writing samples, and a couple of references.
Reedsy Discovery – Review books before they are published and get paid through tips from readers, ranging from $1 to $5. It’s an exciting way to influence which books become popular.
Learn more at 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books.
22. Online job opportunities
There are many more ways to make money online that won’t cost you money to get started, and these include:
Finding remote part-time or full-time jobs – If you want a full-time income or are interested in part-time work, popular job search platforms like Indeed can help. They help you find jobs that fit your schedule where you work for someone else as an employee, such as software engineer, developer, human resources manager, IT manager, and more.
Customer service and support jobs – As an at-home customer service rep, you would work for companies, answering customer questions and issues that they may be having.
Data entry and administrative jobs – Data entry jobs are ideal for you if you have a good eye for detail and can work independently.
These are all jobs where you would be working for someone else, but online from home. The company would normally provide you everything you need to get started, such as any software and possibly even the laptop as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make money online without paying anything.
How can I make money online completely for free?
There are many ways to make money online completely for free. You can start a blog, freelance write, bookkeep, write book reviews, sell stock photography, or become a virtual assistant.
How can students earn money online without any investment?
Students can make money online without any investment by answering online surveys, tutoring online, freelance writing, proofreading, blogging, and more. Whether you want to make extra cash or a full-time income, there are many options for students.
How to Make Money Online Without Paying Anything – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make money online without paying anything.
Getting started with making money online might feel overwhelming and impossible, but it’s not impossible if you do it right.
The internet has many places where you can show off your skills as a writer, artist, or tutor. You can also sell items online, or even play games and give your opinion in surveys.
What other ways are there to make money online for free without investment?
Home Depot customers will soon be able to shop the retailer’s most compelling savings for on-trend products in its online decor assortment during its first ever Decor Days event. From October 5-9, 2023, shoppers can enjoy significant savings on quality furniture, stylish home decor and more, available at HomeDepot.com/decor.
“Fall is the time of the year when customers start to get their homes ready for the busy holiday hosting season, and we know they will be looking to The Home Depot for project inspiration,” said Corinne Bentzen, general manager for home decor online. “We are hosting our first Decor Days event in early October to help our customers tackle their DIY and decor projects and find the perfect finishing touches at the right price.”
Exclusive Decor Days savings on national and proprietary brands including Home Decorators Collection, StyleWell and The Company Store, will be announced on September 20. Customers can look forward to offers including:
Up to 60% Off Area Rugs
Up to 50% Off Select Home Decor, Furniture, Lighting and Housewares
Up to 40% Off Bedding, Bath Fixtures, Vanities, Bath Linens and Mattresses
Up to 30% Off Wall Decor and more
“We’re committed to meeting our customers when, where and how they want to shop,” said Jordan Broggi, senior vice president and president – online at The Home Depot. “Today, over 60% of our sales are to customers who shop in multiple channels – they may start their research online, come into the store to shop in person, and then order project completers on our mobile app. Decor Days gives our customers an easy online shopping experience with everything they need for whole-home decor and styling ahead of the holidays.”
The Home Depot’s online destination for home decor offers a wide assortment of on-trend products at quality prices to fit any aesthetic. Features like shop by room inspiration and intent search, which produces narrowed, relevant search results catered to shoppers’ projects, make the online home decor shopping experience more frictionless.
Furthering The Home Depot’s dedication to a strong interconnected shopping experience, Decor Days customers can enjoy the retailer’s everyday free and flexible delivery on more than 10,000 online decor items and free and easy returns in-store or by mail.
To save on quality furniture and find stylish home accents at the right price, visit HomeDepot.com/decor.
UK mortgage arrears rose 9.2% in 2023 last quarter amid ‘surge in borrowing costs’
Mortgage balances with some arrears at highest value since late 2016, Bank of England data shows
Mortgage arrears jumped by 9.2% in the final quarter of 2023 and by 50% on the previous year, according to Bank of England figures that underscore growing stress in the UK mortgage market.
High interest rates and the rising number of people quitting the jobs market over recent months have put pressure on household disposable incomes, forcing some families to cut or suspend a range of monthly bills, including their mortgage payments.
The Bank said the total value of mortgage balances which had some arrears increased to £20.3bn, or 1.23% – the highest since the fourth quarter of 2016.
Mortgage arrears are based on figures showing the number of borrowers failing to make payments equivalent to at least 1.5% of the outstanding mortgage balance or where the property has been repossessed.
Simon Gammon, the managing partner at Knight Frank Finance, said: “At 1.23%, the proportion of loan balances in arrears is still very low, but the pace at which it is rising will be a source of concern for policymakers at the Bank of England.”
He said the housing market had shown “remarkable resilience given the surge in borrowing costs that we’ve seen”, but forbearance by lenders had kept forced selling “very low”.
Gammon said: “While borrowing costs have likely peaked and should begin falling meaningfully over the summer, the figures demonstrate that we’re not yet out of the woods and conditions remain very difficult for many borrowers.”
More than 1.5m households are expected to refinance their loans this year at higher mortgage rates, putting further pressure on lenders to agree payment holidays.
However, forbearance by lenders and strict lending rules over the last decade that have restricted new borrowing to households that can withstand higher borrowing costs have limited the likelihood of a surge in repossessions.
In line with a trend for older households to own their homes outright, the Bank said the outstanding value of all residential mortgage loans decreased by 0.1% from the previous quarter to £1,657.6bn, and was 1.1% lower than a year earlier.
A decline in mortgage advances also played a part in the overall value of the UK mortgage market, with a decrease by 13.4% from the previous quarter to £54bn, and a decline of 33.8% on a year earlier.
The value of new mortgage commitments – lending agreed to be advanced in the coming months – decreased by 6.6% from the previous quarter to £46bn, and was 21.2% lower than a year earlier.
If the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic was excluded, this was the lowest recorded since the first quarter of 2013, the Bank said.
When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
We’re in the final hours of Cyber Monday, but you can still deck your halls for the holidays with deals on home decor. Modern wall art or a patterned throw blanket can transform your living room just by adding some texture and color.
You can add wintry flair with a white pampas grass wreath that’s currently 63% off at CB2. Or get creative with your mood lighting and try the hexagonal Nanoleaf shapes: save $50 at Best Buy. For Christmas decorating ideas, we rounded up the best Christmas tree and holiday decor deals. You can also check out the best Cyber Monday furniture deals we’ve found across the internet.
There are still sales on tech, style, kitchen, and more, so we’re keeping our list of the best Cyber Monday deals updated through the end of the sale event.
Up to 50% off sitewide, plus an extra 50% on sale items Etsy: Save up to 60% decor from small businesses and makers H&M Home: 30% off everything Jonathan Adler: Up to 40% off sitewide Nordstrom: Up to 60% off throws, candles, bedding and more One Kings Lane: Up to 50% off plus an extra 15% off orders over $700 with 15CYBER Society6: Up to 70% of posters, minis and framed prints Target: Up to 40% off various home decor Urban Outfitters: 40% off sitewide Wayfair: Up to 60% off seasonal decor West Elm: Up to 70% off decor and furniture World Market: Save up to 30% on furniture and decor
Best Cyber Monday home decor deals
Anthropologie Rosalita Switch Plate
Anthropologie has some of the most detailed and lovely little switch plates, like these that add whimsy and cottage core vibes to even the simplest rental space. During Cyber Monday, you can take 30% off whether you need a single toggle switch or an outlet cover.
USTIDE Sunflower Rug Mat
A bold area rug adds color and warms up any room. This polyester microfiber rug comes with a non-slip backing. Get the all-time-low price on yellow, pink, and teal patterns.
The White Company Midnight Large Candle
This three-week candle has scent layers of vetivert, cardamom, and amber. The minimalist design and warming aromas will fit in with any decor. If the regular price seems steep for a candle, the current discount of over half off makes it more reasonable.
Frontgate Luxury Faux Fur Throw
Luscious and realistic-looking, the Frontgate Luxury Faux Fur Throws are a mix of modacrylic and polyester with a velvet polyester back. Varieties include Arctic hare, coyote, chinchilla, timberwolf, and lynx. The 50 by 70-inch blanket is $60 for Cyber Monday.
CB2 36-Inch Faux Ivory Pampas Grass Wreath
This fluffy, white wreath isn’t just for the holidays. The elegant pampas grass lends a winter accent to any room of the house. During Cyber Monday, you can get it for over half off.
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic™ Stripe Throw Blanket
Barefoot Dream’s CozyChic throws are a well-documented celebrity favorite. These soft and timeless blankets cozy up any corner. At over 65% off, this is a savings you’re not going to find anywhere else.
Capri Blue Blue Jean Faceted Jar
This candle combines citrus, white musk, and patchouli for a relaxing fragrance. The faceted lavender glass holder will add a hint of color to white bathrooms. The current 20% off is a deal we see often, but still a good one.
Nanoleaf Shapes (Hexagon)
Featuring a modular design, vibrant colors, and easy smart-home integration, the Nanoleaf Shapes system is fun and functional decor. Best Buy is offering 25% off during Cyber Monday: let this sale (and system) light up your home.
Pottery Barn Curtain Rain String Lights
Available in gold or silver, this curtain rain string light spans 72 inches wide and 72 inches long. Use it to add sparkle indoor or outdoor; just make sure to avoid contact with water. Take 25% off the usual price right now.
The Sill ZZ plant
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamifolia) is one of the toughest indoor houseplants and can survive even the most difficult situations, such as long periods without water. It’s just $51 during The Sill’s Cyber Monday sale event.
Lumens Adesso Lighting Bowery Arc Floor Lamp
If you’re looking to light a small nook or corner in your home the Bowery Arc Floor Lamp provides a warm, focused layer of lighting. The curved design of the lamp, as well as its marble base, adds a simple touch of decor. Save 20% on all colors: brushed steel, antique brass, and black.
Pottery Barn Linden Shelf
This modern, arched shelf has a tray base that can display several bathroom accessories and decorative objects. It can even be a convenient place to hold your phone while you shower. The antique bronze model is 30% off.
Ohad Modular Wood Wall Art
Not your average wall art. This modular piece is both cozy and contemporary, and it’s currently 30% off.
H&M Metal Candelabra
This gold candelabra makes for a gorgeous centerpiece, and it’s 70% off. Top with your favorite taper candles.
Korniful Tabletop Fire Pit
Bring holiday cheer indoors with this tabletop fireplace perfect for roasting chestnuts on an open fire (roasting sticks included). You can buy fuel separately to create a smokeless and odorless flame that adds instant ambiance.
Jaclyn Turner
Senior Home Editor
Jaclyn Turner is Senior Home Editor at Business Insider Reviews, where she oversees home content, reviews, and guides spanning mattresses to vacuums, organization to smart homes, and more. However, she has a particularly soft spot for decor and interior decorating. Product recommendations and deal spotting run in her blood, and Jaclyn takes great pride in showcasing the best of what’s out there to make finding great products for your home and life a little bit easier. She joined the Business Insider team in October 2023. Jaclyn previously held editorial and e-commerce roles with Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, Livingetc, The Spruce, MyDomaine, and Apartment Therapy. Jaclyn received a dual bachelor of arts in Journalism and American Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park. Jaclyn currently resides in Atlanta, GA, with her Cavapoo. When she’s not working, you can find her perusing the aisles of Homegoods, scrolling TikTok for too long, and trying out local Atlanta restaurants. Connect with Jaclyn at [email protected] or give her a follow on Instagram @jaclynturnerLearn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.
Lily Alig
Editor, Home and Kitchen
Lily Alig is an editor on the Business Insider Reviews team, covering the home and kitchen verticals. She helps run the kitchen section, working with in-house and freelance writers to build out coverage of small appliances, kitchen tools, and gourmet food.Since joining Business Insider as a fellow in August 2020, Lily spent a year and a half as a full-time reporter before becoming an editor. As a writer, she spoke with independent spice houses and professional chefs, as well as tested products by making 50 waffles in one day and searing 7 steaks in a week. In her role as editor, Lily tracks stories from pitch to publish, maintains the kitchen publishing calendar, and edits every story for copy and content.Lily is an avid home cook and baker, so she knows what consumers are looking for in kitchenware products. After work, you can find her watching sports, reading fantasy novels, and finding new recipes to try.Reach out to Lily at [email protected]. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.Learn more about how we test kitchen products.
When you ask people about their favorite season, few will likely say winter. However, there’s an undeniable sense of calm that comes with this period of hibernation, regardless if you live in a house in chilly Minneapolis, MN, or an apartment in Miami, FL. Even more unique is the feeling you get when the first warm breezes of spring arrive but winter still holds us in its mysteries.
In this article, Apartment Guide interviews expert candlemakers and sellers to find the scents that evoke both the coziness and moodiness of winter while also celebrating the promise of spring. We promise it will make scents as you keep reading!
Find harmony between dark and light
As the long, dark nights of winter shift to brighter days, the best winter-spring candle scents merge the moodiness of winter and the breeziness of spring. Try to find a candle that balances both vibes seamlessly.
“During this seasonal shift, I find that incorporating fresh citrus notes into my space provides a revitalizing touch reminiscent of the upcoming spring while still holding on to the cozy warmth of winter,” states Tianna Dean of Hummingbird Candle Company. “Blends of lemongrass, lime, and lemon top notes evoke a refreshing burst of citrus, symbolizing the awakening of spring, while the underlying notes of jasmine, black currant, and patchouli add a touch of warmth reminiscent of the lingering winter.”
Add a touch of aquatic fragrance
The pool is still closed, and you might not be ready to plan your beachside vacation quite yet. However, aquatic notes transport you to the relaxed feeling of lounging by the water.
“As the seasons shift, our my favorite transitional scent is our spring candle scent that evokes Oklahoma during a thunderstorm,” says Rico Smith of 46th State Candle. “With refreshing notes of eucalyptus, spearmint, and sea salt, it captures the invigorating essence of spring rain while still offering a hint of winter’s crispness, making it the perfect choice for transitioning between winter and spring seasons.”
Similarly, Jennifer Smyth of Modern Zen Candle Company notes: “Fragrances like sea salt and orchid orchestrate a coastal symphony, harmonizing sea salt’s crispness, jasmine’s soft touch, and tonka bean’s warmth — nature’s transition from chilly winds to the gentle caress of spring. For even more beachy vibes, bamboo and coconut whisk you away to a tranquil paradise with bamboo’s freshness, coconut milk’s creaminess, and pineapple’s sweetness—a scent that embodies a springtime escape.”
Opt for solar fragrances
AURA Candle Bar owner Linda Pendry suggests solar fragrances, or scent profiles evocative of tropical blooms. “Solar fragrances are top of mind as spring break plans interrupt the cold winter months with fragrances such as sea breeze, citrus facets of neroli or even the floral notes of olive blossom. Warmer base notes such as exotic agarwood, sensual driftwood, or smokey cedar lend themselves to grounding the fragrance as we all patiently await the longer days ahead as springtime unfolds.”
Try a combination of floral and woody notes
“I love burning candles that have a woody and floral scent with a hint of spice during the transition from winter to spring,” shares Reis Chester, founder of REISFIELDS NYC. “My go-to choice has a masterfully crafted blend of soft woody guaiac wood, fresh French roses, geranium, and violets. It is finally topped off with a subtle hint of black pepper and clove. Giving you the warmth of winter with the freshness of spring.”
“Our favorite scent for the transition months between winter and spring is a blend of dahlia and sandalwood,” says Nicola Hines of Candlish. “It reminds us of a lush wooded flower field in the spring and has a sophisticated and luxurious aroma that will uplift your mood. The comforting scent of slightly sweet base note sandalwood blends harmoniously with warm amber, light lemon zest, sultry jasmine, and yellow dahlia petals which gives off well-balanced and soft floral notes that are earthy and intriguing.”
Earthy and fresh scents win the season
From the crisp aroma of freshly cut pine to the grounding scent of damp earth after rainfall, earthy and fresh scents reign supreme this season.
“Most will gravitate to a floral-scented candle this time of year, but I’d recommend something with notes like white sage and lavender to cleanse the space of ghosts and emotional winter baggage,” says Jesse Regis of Virgins on Fire Candle Co.
Similarly, Kylie Antolini of Wildwood Candle Company recommends combining the freshness of earthy scents with the brightness of citrus to evoke a wooded meadow filled with flowers.
She says, “My favorite scents for transitioning out of winter into spring have a mix of grounding, earthy floral notes and brightness — for example, one of our candles has blended notes of ylang-ylang (grounding, floral), orange blossom (bright, floral), green fig (ripeness, rebirth, bright, green), and lavender (grounding, floral). It’s not only a wonderful year-round scent, but particularly wonderful coming out of winter, as our noses have missed smelling fragrant flowers in the sunshine.”
Or, as Wes at Milwaukee Candle Company says, “As winter surrenders to spring, lose yourself in the harmonious fusion of brightening citrus and comforting woodsy scents. The invigorating notes of blood orange signify nature’s awakening, while a deep, rich mahogany evokes the cozy embrace of winter. This blend effortlessly bridges the gap between winter hibernation and the blooming warmth of spring, creating a sensory experience that captures the essence of both seasons in perfect harmony.”
And if you want the earthy freshness that instantly reminds you of a luxurious spa, white tea takes the cake. Kianna Cornelia of Cornelia Home states, “Our favorite scent for the transition months between winter and spring is white tea. This aromatherapy fragrance promotes wellness and calmness, allowing you to enjoy a tranquil spa-like experience anywhere in your home.”
Find comfort with a sweeter fragrance
Though often thought of as solely winter candle scents, sweeter notes go with any season – so check in with your mood instead of the thermometer outside when it comes to finding a signature scent for March. And if we’re being honest – who isn’t in the mood for dessert, no matter the season?
According to Nose Best Candles, you can’t go wrong with gourmand scents, which are typically dessert-like scents like vanilla, almond, sugar and caramel. “When in doubt, go gourmand! The weather is so unpredictable during this time. So instead of trying to match the weather outside, find comfort in something like a snickerdoodle or banana nut bread. This will make your home smell like a 5-star bakery that you’ll never want to leave.”
Erika Whitus of Southern Charm Candle also chimed in: “When the holidays have passed, and we are in the cozy moments spent indoors waiting for the vibrant lively atmosphere of spring, our favorite scents are ones that combine elements of the fresh, sweet aroma of fruit with the warmth and comfort of a fresh-baked dessert. Juicy ripe strawberries, zesty lemons, or tropical bananas provide a refreshing burst of energy like spring itself whereas the comforting aroma of vanilla provides a grounding effect of waiting for your mom’s favorite recipes.”
Marry winter and spring with a musky scent
Fuse the essence of winter and spring with a musky scent, bridging the gap between the crisp chill of snow-covered landscapes and the burgeoning warmth of blooming flowers.
Ky Candle Company has a cashmere-blend scent, which is the perfect concoction to take you from winter to spring, according to owner, Sheena Bromagen. “It has warm, earthy notes of saffron and amber paired with the light floral fragrances of lily of the valley and violets. It’s rich and soft, calming and warm – a perfect scent all year!”
Or, as Tanisha Burke from Malaysian Lights puts it, “I have found the most favored scents between winter, and spring is something fresh and clean. My bestseller boasts notes of ozone, soothing musk, fresh flowers, and light coconut with a sandalwood base. The second scent that is found to be very popular between these seasons has plenty of cinnamon and vanilla. The cinnamon spice notes combined with rich, warm vanilla is a customer favorite.”
Experiment with olive
Pull out the olive scents if you want to try something refreshing and unique for the transition season. It offers an earthy balance of mellowness and warmth that lends itself to both winter and spring.
“Olive is my favorite fragrance for transitioning into spring!” says Clara Bailey from MacBailey Candle Co. “It is a complex fragrance that has a base of musk and vanilla, which bring in the cozy feelings of winter. The warm earthy middle notes add texture, while the top notes of orange and lemon bring in the fresh and clean notes of spring.”
Glenda from Palmetto Scent Studio recommends this right-now-ready scent, too: “As you prepare to transition your home from winter to spring, it’s important to take inspiration from the feelings we experience during this time of rejuvenation. Everyone’s anticipating the fresh, fragrant breezes to come, but there is still a slight chill in the air. Consider a scent that blends soft and cozy scents like cashmere with light, botanical notes like the sophisticated tea olive. These blends will help set a tone of anticipation as we await spring buds to emerge.”
Wow with deep, wood-forward notes
Whether you picture a large bonfire on a chilly night or a slow-burning fireplace in a cozy den, wood scents add to any winter scene. But did you know woody scents also transitioned well into warmer weather?
Alex at Kindred Homestead Supply notes how woody scents might evoke the season’s turn. “In this transitional period between winter and spring, the earthy blend of smokey oak, tobacco leaf, and a subtle touch of vanilla provides a comforting and enveloping atmosphere in our living spaces. These scents serve as a warm embrace, encouraging us to appreciate the restorative quiet of winter, while we eagerly look forward to the rejuvenation spring brings.”
Another expert adds her thoughts about this scent profile. “For us, it’s all about the blend of earthy, woodsy scents with a pop of floral freshness,” says Diane Mendoza of Never Alone Candles. “Think the floral vibrancy of lavender mixed with the earthy depth of oakmoss. It’s the perfect scent combo for transitioning from the cozy, reflective winter to the fresh, hopeful vibes of spring — like a breath of fresh air for your living space.”
Spring forward with flowers and citrus
Of course, you can skip the woody, spicy or sweet notes in your winter candle scents if you’ve been long-awaiting spring. We encourage you to go ahead and embrace every warm breeze – while lighting candles in scents that speed the next season along.
According to an owner at Gratus Candles,” Our favorite transitional scents from winter to spring would have to be a mixture of earthy, citrus and floral! This is because while our senses are use to those traditional winter fragrances filled with spices, earthy, and sweet notes, transitioning to fragrances that embody the warmer weather, such as: citrus and floral, while keeping true to those earth notes, will bring a familiarity to your visitors while easing them into the welcoming spring scents of the new season!
Caitlin Wheeler of Old North Candle Company explains this perfectly. “Our favorite way to transition from winter to spring scents is to focus on light, fruity blends. It feels too early to commit to floral scents, but most of the winter scents feel a bit heavy for this time of year. Fragrance notes of mint and chamomile are comforting on those lingering cold days, while mandarin and basil notes brighten up the scent to welcome in those airy, spring mornings.”
This sentiment seems to be echoed by other candle entrepreneurs, too. “Citrus and delicate floral fragrances are ideal for the season, as they offer a light, refreshing touch and harmonize beautifully when paired together,” posits Neosha Franklin, Owner & Candle artisan of Serene Nights Candle Co. “Our premier fragrance pick for the transition from winter to spring boasts a delightful fusion of citrus pear, cherry, and deep musk, creating an enchanting aroma perfectly suited for this season.”
In a similar vein, Two Chicks Candles’ owners Cassandra and Latoya Cargile chime in with their own poetic advice. “As we tiptoe into the whimsical realm of spring, let’s embrace the dance of melting snow and rejuvenating rain showers with aquatic delights like sea salt, ocean breeze, and the ethereal fragrance of exotic lotus flowers, elegant water lilies and delicate orchids — nature’s symphony of renewal.
These scents aren’t just whispers on the wind; they’re soul-cleansing reminders that winter’s grasp is fading, making way for spring’s gentle embrace. Embark on an aromatic journey where each inhale is a celebration of renewal and the enchanting allure of changing seasons. A blend of sea salt, lush green leaves, amber and freesia perfectly captures this transition.”
Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, where we answer your real-world money questions. In this episode:
Discover how to revamp your finances with a 30-day money cleanse that aligns your spending with joy and personal values.
How can you set a budget that aligns with your goals?
How can you optimize your spending to reduce waste?
NerdWallet’s Kim Palmer talks to Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, author of The 30-Day Money Cleanse, to help you understand how small changes can make a significant impact on your financial health. They begin with a discussion of the financial cleanse, with tips and tricks on aligning spending with personal values, creating lasting habits in 30 days by using a method that has saved others an average of $950 over 30 days — without feeling deprived.
They also discuss money management tactics that include keeping a money journal, practicing visualization and having money parties. They discuss the benefits of recording feelings associated with each purchase, indulging in simple low-cost activities that bring happiness and aligning spending with personal values for a more satisfying approach to personal finance.
Check out this episode on your favorite podcast platform, including:
NerdWallet stories related to this episode:
Episode transcript
This transcript was generated from podcast audio by an AI tool.
Sean Pyles:
Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast. I’m Sean Pyles.
Kim Palmer:
And I’m Kim Palmer.
Sean Pyles:
On Smart Money, we’re all about answering your money questions big and small, ambitious and easy. This episode we’re taking on an especially ambitious question, how can you transform your finances in 30 days? And Kim is here in her role as the host of our regular book club series to guide you through this conversation. So Kim, who are you talking with?
Kim Palmer:
I’m speaking with Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, author of The 30-Day Money Cleanse, which is the focus of our conversation today. Feinstein Gerstley is also the founder of The Fiscal Femme, which offers online money courses, and she’s also a certified financial planner and a financial coach.
Sean Pyles:
Sounds great. Well, I will let you take things from here.
Kim Palmer:
Ashley, welcome to Smart Money.
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Thank you. Thank you so much for having me.
Kim Palmer:
So Ashley, let’s start with what is a financial cleanse? Does it involve lemons and vinegar?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
You’d think, right? You’d think that it would have some interesting food items as well, but it is about letting go of the things that don’t bring value to our lives and realigning and rethinking how we spend our money so it can be more conscious and intentional.
Kim Palmer:
What do you like about the financial cleanse concept? Because I think you’re right, we usually apply that to food. So what is it you like about applying that to money?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Originally when I created the program, it was actually created after a food cleanse in the same format because I think food and money are very similar. They are both emotionally charged. There’s so much more to them than just the numbers. And that’s what I was seeing over and over with clients is that sometimes we don’t have the education and we aren’t sure what we should be doing, but then even once we know what we should be doing, oftentimes we’re not doing it and that’s where our money mindset came in. And so The Money Cleanse definitely helps us shift that and put together that plan over the course of the 30 days.
Kim Palmer:
And what is it about 30 days? Why did you choose that versus a week or six months?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
30 days gives us enough time where it’s that first week when we do something, we can feel really excited and have a lot of momentum. And then in maybe week two, week three is where it can get challenging and where we might end up giving up. And so I think a lot of the transformation in The Money Cleanse happens in those two and three weeks. And also there’s just a perfect amount of content to cover over the course of four weeks because we don’t want to take on too much. We all have a lot going on. We have jobs and social lives, but there’s a lot to cover. So if we are able to break that down into more bite-sized weekly chunks, I thought that was a really great format for The Money Cleanse. And even though it is called a cleanse, the idea is at the end you have a new lifestyle that lives on far long after the cleanse.
Kim Palmer:
We’re definitely going to get into all of those details in a minute, but first I wanted to ask you what you learned personally the first time you applied this to yourself. How did it go and what did you learn from it or change?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
A lot of the concepts were concepts that I applied to my own life as I was learning and not in any given order, but what I found is that working with people across different goals and income levels, I was saying a lot of the same things over and over again and a lot of the lessons that I learned and provided me with a lot of transformation worked really well in this money cleanse format where we first focus on ourselves and then also on the environment around us. I think a lot of times we think of our own money lives, but so much of our lives are interacting with our family, our friends, our coworkers, and so how does that work with our finances as well?
Kim Palmer:
The numbers you share in the book I thought were pretty shocking. You say that according to your research, the average participant saved $950 over 30 days, and that is more than 20% of their pretax income on average. That’s amazing. Where are these savings coming from?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Honestly, a lot of it is just from intentionality. The coolest part about that stat to me, I was very thrilled always at the end of The Money Cleanse program. I ran it live for five years before turning it into a book, I would ask people at the end about their results and really understand what their income is and how that savings kept going. I think a large portion of that savings was happening month after month after The Money Cleanse, but I think the best part was that they mostly didn’t feel deprived and that it wasn’t like, “Oh, I’m staying home and eating canned beans every night in order to save that $950.” It was a lot of shifts and a lot of things that actually didn’t feel bad to them, which makes something that you’re able to keep going and keep consistent.
Kim Palmer:
Yeah, I think that goes back to what you were mentioning before in that you don’t want to just do this for 30 days, but it’s about setting up some new habits and some things that really stick with you.
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Yes, exactly.
Kim Palmer:
So who would benefit most from doing a 30-day financial cleanse? Is there anyone who doesn’t need it, like Elon Musk?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Honestly, I’ve found that most of us will benefit from a money cleanse. I’d say the more you don’t want to do it, the more you probably will benefit. One of the exercises we do is keep a money journal, much like a food journal, where you just write down everything that you spend and earn. And I found that the people who dread doing that the most, have the most to gain from actually taking a look.
So I’d say I really think it’s something that most of us will benefit from regardless of our income, because what I found with working with clients across income ranges is you really can’t out earn it. We might think, “Oh, if I just make more money, I’ll finally start saving the way I’d like to.” And then you get the raise, get the promotion, this happened to me over and over again and next thing I know at the end of the month, I’m not saving a lot more than I was before. So I think we might imagine that doubling our salary or getting the raise will actually be the fix that we need, but then somehow our expenses tend to creep up, and that’s where The Money Cleanse can come in.
Kim Palmer:
I know like you said, it varies based on each person, but are there some common things you notice people cutting back on to find those savings? For example, for me, I know when I really focus on it and I short term stop myself from spending, it’s all about those recurring purchases on Amazon, for example, that are so easy to buy quickly. Are there some examples of expenses that people did find relatively easy to cut and really stick with it?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I would say some common offenders, definitely technology has made it so much easier to spend money and that just keeps getting easier and easier. So I would say Lyfts and Ubers were a shocker to a lot of people. Takeout. UberEats now is one that people complain about a lot. Any daily habits, if you’re grabbing lunch every day with your coworkers or a snack or smoothies. And also just the grocery store in general, which with prices where they are, it’s really hard to decrease spending there, but it is something you can strategize with and try.
Kim Palmer:
Yes, what you’re saying makes a lot of sense. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty a little bit for someone who really wants to try this and get started. When you talk about beginning your 30-day money cleanse, you suggest signing an agreement with yourself and you are acknowledging it’ll be hard, but you’re going to make it a priority. Can you explain why that can help?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I think often when we start something, and I mentioned this earlier, we can have a lot of energy around it, be excited around it, but I find just going through and thinking through what this commitment actually is, how much time I want to dedicate to it, it’s just a different level of commitment and promise to ourselves. And so along the way, any way that I can, have people feel more accountable or more dedicated to their money cleanse, I want to do it.
The other thing which you’ll notice throughout the book is that over and over again, I am allowing people to make mistakes, to forget to keep their money journal, to feel like they’re completely fallen off the wagon because that’s what happens to all of us. And I’ve noticed that we tend to want to do The Money Cleanse when it’s a week where we have no plans and we’re not going to be spending a lot of money, but it’s actually really great to do it when your life looks typical. Maybe it could be during the holidays when it’s extra challenging or you have a lot of plans with your friends, because that forces us to create a cleanse that works with our life as it actually is, not this time where you can just stay home and cook dinner every night.
Kim Palmer:
You also write about practicing visualization and how that can help people stay on track. How does that work? What does that look like exactly?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
There’s some very cool research about how our mind works when we see things and believe that they are true and can visualize them. I also find a prompt that’s so helpful is to think about someone, let’s say if my goal is to save X number of dollars or to feel a lot more peace of mind with my money, I think there can be very objective goals, but then also more feelings based like, “This is how I want to feel and interact with my money” and thinking about, “Okay, if I were that person, what decisions would they be making?” It allows us to try it on and it also puts our brain to work making that reality happen and reconcile it.
Kim Palmer:
You have already mentioned money journals a few times. I want to understand that better. So what does your money journal look like? Does it help to have everything written out? Is it like any other journal?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I think the more challenging it sounds to you, the simpler I would recommend keeping it. So the simplest form is the item and the amount. And it can be if you are someone who loves writing things, I have the worst handwriting, but when I’m thinking or trying to brainstorm, I love writing by hand. So if you have a journal you’d like to keep it that way, definitely write it out by hand. But you can also keep it on notes in your phone and use an app. As long as you’re manually entering it in, that part is really important for registering the expense. You can get more fancy with it, more creative. If you want to take note of how you felt before an expense or how you felt after, that can also be really helpful. But I think at a minimum, just the item and the amount is great.
Kim Palmer:
Oh, okay. That’s so interesting. So you would write down every single thing that you spend. And then I like your add-ons as saying how it made you feel. I think I would go that route because I love keeping a detailed journal. So you can say how it made you feel and then does that help inform your future spending decisions?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I think it does because what happens is you reflect and realize on any expenses that do not feel good afterward, you might notice a common feeling beforehand. So something that happened with a bunch of people who’ve taken the money cleanse is they’ve noticed when they needed a break from work, they would leave the office and go on a walk. They needed that break. They were craving some kind of R&R after working really hard on something, but that might lead to a purchase that they didn’t feel great about. Maybe it was window shopping, then they ran in and bought something they didn’t even know they needed, but now they needed, or they used that time to grab lunch and they didn’t really even enjoy the $16 salad that they were getting. I think noticing how you’re feeling before, especially if how you’re feeling after is opposite or a feeling that you would like less of could be really beneficial and helpful information.
Kim Palmer:
One of my favorite tools that you talk about is focusing on frugal joys. And you include a list of things that sound so appealing, but they’re also free or very inexpensive, things like having a picnic, calling an old friend or taking a free online class. How can focusing on those frugal joys help?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I’m such a fan of frugal joys too, and while I list out a hundred of them, there really are limitless frugal joys. What actually brings us joy can be very different for each of us. So something that I love doing, someone else might say that sounds horrible. But that’s kind of the fun of it, is testing them out and see where we can add joy in our lives. They’re a great tool. If you want to trade out some joys that cost money for some free or inexpensive ones, that’s great for creating room in a budget. Or if you just want to add joy to your life, you can just start working in those frugal joys. Starting with just trying to find a couple a week I think is great, but if you can incorporate some frugal joys and focus on that joy and really relish in it, that’s a practice that is great for money and just life in general.
Kim Palmer:
You also talk about really thinking hard about your values and what’s important to you, the trade-offs that you are willing to make. For example, maybe you would give up buying that expensive coffee every day if it meant you could go on a big vacation at the end of the year instead. So how do you recommend thinking through your values and what trade-offs make sense for you?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
This was something that really opened my eyes because I often thought of our spending as, “Oh, this is what people do.” I never thought of it as a real opportunity cost. Every time we spend a dollar, we are losing the opportunity to spend it in a different way or to save it. And so in a lot of cases, people are rearranging their spending. They’re not even changing a behavior in order to save. They can be changing a behavior in order to spend it in a different way that will actually bring them more joy.
It’s kind of a bummer at first to realize we can only use or spend our dollar one time, but then it’s also very liberating and creates a sense of intention with how we use our money. And I find that when we look at our spending, and this is something that I recommend doing in any budget, in The Money Cleanse, is looking at each expense in terms of how much you spend on it each year that can allow you to say, “Okay, if I brought my lunch to work, which can feel like a hassle, or sometimes people are going into the office less, maybe both times they go in bringing lunch instead of getting it out or doing it one time instead of doing takeout twice, how much does that save me per year? And is there anything else I’d rather do with the money?”
In The Money Cleanse, we think about the things that bring us the most joy that cost money, and we look at each of our expenses in terms of those things. So for me, especially when I started this money journey and was doing these exercises, I really thought I couldn’t afford to take a trip, but when I added up those daily habits, it was clear that I could if I made some changes, and that was really motivating to me. And it could also be money that you put towards a goal as well, not necessarily other spending. So I find it to be a really powerful exercise to decide what is worth it to us. And the cool part is that there’s no right or wrong answer. Something might be just worth it to you and you decide to keep it and it might not be, but now at least truly which item you want to be spending your money on.
Kim Palmer:
It’s so amazing how quickly those small expenses add up when you look at the whole year, like you said. I think that is such a powerful way to think about it.
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
It gives you the true number that you’re working with instead of, “Oh, this thing could never add up to that,” or “I can’t afford to do that.” And also thinking of it in terms of other things like it could be a monthly massage that just felt so out of reach but now feels, “Oh, if I just did this, I could get that.” Or the trip or savings or paying down a credit card, whatever it is.
Kim Palmer:
Let’s talk about how to stick with it after the 30 days. So say someone applied these tools and had a great 30 days and just wants to make sure to extend that. How can we keep it going?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
My favorite financial habit is having money parties. Money parties are time we set aside every month or even every week depending on what you prefer to show our money some love. The main things that I’d recommend doing in your money party is definitely look at how your spending and earning looked for the last period. If it was a week, if it was a month, checking in on any goals, checking in on any guidelines from your money cleanse that you’re trying to continue to live by and what challenges came up. And if they did, instead of punishing ourselves, think “Interesting. What other strategies can I use to stick with them?” And I call them parties for a reason. I think we can make them fun and something that we look forward to.
I have a really fun money party playlist that I’m happy to share, but it’s basically songs that pump me up about money and I get in my PJ’s, I get a cup of tea and I reward myself after, then I’m done with my money party. So there are ways to make it a time that we look forward to and just to set up that calendar reminder so that it’s not something that we put off for months and months.
Kim Palmer:
Yes. I’m so glad you brought up the money parties. And let’s just explain to people what money parties are exactly, because it’s not necessarily… You’re not inviting a ton of people over, right? It can just be with yourself.
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Yes. I would say most money parties are with yourself. If you have a long-term partner, if you’re part of a family, you can definitely bring them in on it. They don’t have to be there the whole time, but the more we’re on the same page with partners and families, the better. I’ve had people do them with friends as well, even digitally. I used to run digital money parties where we would do them all together online. But then you can go out with your friends after. You can go on a date night after. But generally it’s great to do them on your own as well.
Kim Palmer:
That sounds perfect. Well, thank you, Ashley. Any final thoughts to share to leave people with?
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
I think the overall thought I’d leave everyone with is that the whole idea of The Money Cleanse is that small shifts and small changes and little steps that feel manageable and accessible can make a huge difference and we can make big progress over time. So it doesn’t have to be hard. It can be fun and you can do it.
Kim Palmer:
Thank you. That is a great message to end on. Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, thank you so much for joining us today.
Ashley Feinstein Gerstley:
Thank you so much for having me and for this great conversation.
Kim Palmer:
That is all we have for this episode. To share your thoughts on talking about finances with your family, shoot us an email at [email protected].
Sean Pyles:
Visit nerdwallet.com/podcast for more info on this episode. And remember to subscribe, rate and review us wherever you’re getting this podcast.
Kim Palmer:
This episode was produced by Sean Pyles and myself. Tess Vigeland helped with the editing. Sara Brink mixed our audio. And a big thank you to the folks on the NerdWallet copy desk for all of their help.
Sean Pyles:
And here’s our brief disclaimer. We are not financial or investment advisors. This nerdy info is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.
Kim Palmer:
And with that said, until next time, turn to the Nerds.
Whether or not you’re hosting a gathering or just want to embrace the season and celebrate the occasion in the comfort of your own home, we have all the decor you need.
When you think of Easter home decor, your mind may immediately flash to those glaringly vibrant plastic eggs you used to collect as a child in the yard, or maybe a giant chocolate bunny and an Easter door sticker for all the neighborhood to see. While those things may bring on a tinge of nostalgia, that’s not what we’re after here. As chic, ultrafeminine women in our 20s and 30s, we want our space to feel stylish and elevated, but we also don’t want to miss out on celebrating special holidays.
Thankfully, brands have stepped up their game since we were kids, and much of the home decor available now can be described as anything but cheesy. Let’s explore our favorite Easter home decor you’re going to be sad to take down come April.
Evie’s product selections are curated by the editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love.