How To Make $100K In 30 Days Installing Christmas Lights

Steve, owner of Valley Christmas Lights, scaled his side hustle to $15,000 per day in Christmas light installations, focusing on high-end residential clients in areas like Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. His business model emphasizes custom-designed, high-quality displays, referrals, and a service-based approach that includes installation, maintenance, and takedown, while attracting and retaining a skilled workforce through competitive wages and a positive work environment.

Business Start & Growth

• 00:00:50 Steve started Valley Christmas Lights in 2020 after discovering a Facebook group of individuals who made money installing Christmas lights. He initially invested in a cheap online course and quickly learned that focusing on high-end clients in affluent areas like Paradise Valley and Scottsdale was more profitable. His revenue steadily increased from around $1,800 per job in 2020 to $3,600 in 2023, with some jobs exceeding $20,000.

Service & Design Focus

• 00:02:13 Valley Christmas Lights distinguishes itself through a custom-designed approach to installations. The company designs and installs custom-cut light strands for each property, avoiding unsightly excess cord, and uses commercial-grade products for greater brightness and durability. They also offer full-service maintenance and teardown at the end of each season.

Marketing & Referrals

• 00:07:59 Initially relying on Google and Facebook ads, Steve's marketing strategy shifted towards organic growth as the business expanded. He now spends only $400 per day on paid advertising, primarily relying on referrals and word-of-mouth marketing. Referrals account for over 50% of his clients, highlighting the impact of providing high-quality service and designs.

Staffing & Compensation

• 00:13:30 Valley Christmas Lights primarily employs Grand Canyon University students as installers, with some transitioning to managerial roles. The company emphasizes investing in its employees, paying installers $20 per hour, compared to minimum wage offered by many competitors. This approach fosters higher-quality installations, improved service, and enhanced employee retention.

Operational Challenges

• 00:17:04 Steve discusses the challenges of the Christmas light industry, primarily the limited two-month work season. This tight timeframe necessitates quick responses to issues, proper inventory management, and reliable staffing to meet deadlines. Weather conditions, crew availability, and potential delays in completing a job can significantly impact the schedule, requiring flexible and responsive operational practices.