Side Gig Success: How She Earned $300k in One Year by Wrapping Gifts

Michelle Hensley, the founder and CEO of Nifty Package Co., has a remarkable story of resilience and determination. After losing her husband to cancer in 2014, Hensley found herself facing a complete identity crisis at the age of 50. Her husband had managed their finances while she ran a nonprofit, leaving her in a vulnerable position financially. With two children still at home, Hensley needed to find a way to make ends meet.

Starting from square one, Hensley realized she needed to educate herself on financial matters and sought the help of a financial coach. While initially hesitant to start her own business, she eventually found her calling in coaching, obtaining certifications in finance, life, and grief coaching. Despite considering other job opportunities, Hensley’s passion for helping others led her to explore entrepreneurship.

In 2015, Nifty Package Co. was born out of Hensley’s desire to lift up other women entrepreneurs. Starting as a side hustle while she continued working in financial services, Nifty Package Co. initially focused on creating gift baskets. Hensley learned valuable lessons about entrepreneurship along the way, including the importance of understanding costs and profitability.

As Nifty Package Co. evolved, Hensley saw an opportunity to expand her services during the 2018 holiday season. Inspired to offer gift-wrapping services, she utilized her van to drive around and wrap gifts for clients. Despite some initial challenges, including a mishap with labeling gifts, Hensley’s determination paid off as her business gained traction.

Through social media marketing efforts, Nifty Package Co. caught the attention of major clients, including Too Faced Cosmetics and the Kardashians. These projects propelled Hensley’s side hustle into a full-fledged career, catering to corporate and celebrity clientele. With a focus on locally sourced and high-end products, Nifty Package Co. differentiated itself in the market.

In 2021, Nifty Package Co. experienced significant growth, with gift-wrapping services accounting for a substantial portion of sales. Hensley’s commitment to providing personalized gift experiences led her to explore franchising opportunities, expanding the business’s reach across the U.S. Today, Nifty Package Co. boasts a team of over 20 local staff and 60 contractors nationwide, offering opportunities for individuals seeking side hustles or additional income.

As Nifty Package Co. continues to thrive, Hensley remains dedicated to upholding the company’s core value of bringing joy to every customer. With a strong support network and a passion for helping others, Hensley’s journey from a place of grief and uncertainty to a successful business owner is a testament to her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.