Danny Trejo, an insurance agent turned citrus entrepreneur, is the focus of this Side Hustle Spotlight Q&A. In 2020, Trejo launched Via Citrus, an online store dedicated to providing customers with the opportunity to grow their own citrus trees. Inspired by his childhood memories of the citrus groves in Central Florida, Trejo sought to share his love for citrus cultivation with a wider audience.
The journey of starting Via Citrus was not without its challenges. Trejo had to navigate the unfamiliar territory of setting up an ecommerce platform from scratch. With no prior experience in website design or development, he had to learn the ropes quickly to bring his vision to life. Additionally, he had to carefully curate a product line that would appeal to customers, considering factors such as citrus varieties, plant sizes, and shipping logistics.
Despite the initial hurdles, Trejo’s dedication and hard work paid off. Within a few months, Via Citrus was generating consistent monthly revenue, with peak sales during holidays like Mother’s Day and Christmas. Today, the business sees an average monthly revenue of $36,000, a testament to Trejo’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to his side hustle.
What sets Via Citrus apart is not just its products, but also the personal touch that Trejo brings to the business. Working closely with his father, who has over 40 years of experience in citrus cultivation, Trejo ensures that every plant sent out to customers carries a piece of their family’s dedication and love for citrus. This hands-on approach not only adds value to the business but also strengthens the bond between father and son.
Looking towards the future, Trejo is excited about the growth potential of the plant industry and the opportunities it presents for Via Citrus. With plans to expand their greenhouse operations and offer a wider variety of citrus plants, Trejo is confident that the business will continue to thrive in the digital age where gardening and indoor plants are gaining popularity.
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own successful side hustles, Trejo offers valuable advice based on his own experience. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and getting feedback from customers early on. Perfection, he notes, can be a hindrance if it delays the launch of your product. By listening to customer feedback and making necessary adjustments, entrepreneurs can steer their side hustles in a direction that resonates with their target market.
In conclusion, Danny Trejo’s journey from insurance agent to citrus entrepreneur is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in the world of side hustles. Through Via Citrus, Trejo not only shares his love for citrus cultivation but also creates a meaningful connection to his roots and family heritage. As the business continues to grow and evolve, Trejo’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their side hustles into successful ventures.
