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How Porch Pumpkins Turned a Passion into a Six-Figure Business

Update From Hobby to Six-Figure Business: The Porch Pumpkins Phenomenon Heather Torres transformed her passion for seasonal decor into a booming business during the pandemic. What started as a simple hobby of decorating her porch with pumpkins evolved into Porch Pumpkins, a company that not only serves homeowners with festive displays but thrives on innovative business strategies. Understanding the Business Model that Drives Success Rather than creating one-off custom designs, Heather opted for simplicity with four distinct packages at various price points, catering to different consumer desires—from small, charming displays to grand setups that promise spectacle. The most popular setup, priced at $325, features about 30 pumpkins, while a deluxe option can reach up to $1,350, attracting serious autumn enthusiasts. This clarity in offerings has streamlined her operations and enhanced customer satisfaction. Work-Life Balance in Entrepreneurship Reflecting on her journey, Heather emphasizes balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Operating primarily from August to December leaves her ample time to engage with her children and manage household responsibilities in the off-season. This balance appeals to potential franchisees who are looking for flexibility in their business pursuits. The Power of Community and Support In a unique move, Heather started hiring other local moms to help with displays, fostering a sense of community and support among working mothers. She notes that this model not only helped her business grow—scaling from just her and her husband to a team of over 20—but also empowered the local community. This strategy exemplifies the importance of collaboration and mutual support in entrepreneurial success, especially in today's challenging economic landscape. Coaching for Future Entrepreneurs With a noticeable interest from aspiring entrepreneurs wanting to learn from her experience, Heather launched a coaching initiative. This addresses a broader interest encapsulated in employer branding and candidate experiences, showcasing how personal narratives can strengthen a business's employee value proposition (EVP). Potential founders can look to her model for insights on navigating the intricacies of entrepreneurship while balancing personal life. Potential Franchising Opportunities and Future Directions As Porch Pumpkins gains traction, Heather's plans to franchise are compelling. This endeavor opens a new chapter not just for her business, but for others seeking to replicate her success. Effective reputation management through social recruiting and career site optimization plays a crucial role in making the franchises appealing to potential candidates, further enhancing their employer brand. As we explore how seasonal businesses can thrive uniquely, the Porch Pumpkins case illustrates the potential for innovation in familiar markets. For anyone interested in making their hobbies into lucrative ventures, Heather's journey is an inspiring model of passion meeting opportunity.