Because no one likes advice from a stranger...
Hey there!
I’m Courtney, the design daydreamer and chaos coordinator behind The Brand Bootcamp and The Visual Collective.
So, whats my background and where have I gained all my knowledge on side hustles...
When I finished school I studied Tourism Management and Property. I did a bit of work experience with a property management office and they ended up offering me a full time job which I did for five years and learnt a lot from my boss who ended up being a business mentor!
I started my first side hustle when I was 24 called The Label Boutique selling second hand designer clothes for people all over Australia and worked with retail clothing stores to help clear their sale stock.
I then worked as a project manager for a residential builder and studied interior design while I was there and I absolutely loved it!
I then got married and moved to Port Lincoln and worked for an online retailer selling homewares and lifestyle products. The job was amazing and I learnt so much about product sourcing, online stores, sales and marketing, customer service and organising photoshoots.
I started The Visual Collective in 2018 but it wasn't until after my second daughter was born that I really dug my heels in and made a proper go of the business.
How did The Visual Collective start?
I started this business whilst I was still working for an online retailer as I wanted a creative outlet whilst working a 9-5 and raising my young family.
I initially just messaged small businesses in my local town and also started putting some of my creative work on my personal social media page which friends and family were super supportive of.
I then landed a quick logo job with a high profile make up artist who was a friend of a friend and next thing I was getting enquiries consistently for logo and branding - this wasn't even in my scope of works initially!! I thought I would only offer websites and party invitations?!
I have since studied an extensive six month brand strategy course and have made this an integral part of my process as it sets the foundations for any business.
I have now completed several online courses about creating a successful side hustle.
Why The Visual Collective?
I love to help people when it comes to business ideas, i've always had this 'just go for it' attitude and so when friends would come to me with their dreams I'd automatically start brainstorming how they could make it happen.
My passion is helping mums start side hustles to give them a creative outlet from the everyday tasks of being a mum and running a household.
I created this guide, however, not only to assist mothers in starting their own businesses, but also to assist dreamers, 9-to-5ers, and go-getters!
It doesn't matter if your side hustle is something you want to keep small and run on your own terms or if your wanting to build your empire, I am here to help you get started or give your business the tools and confidence to take it to the next level and I promise to be your number one cheerleader!