So, here’s the deal. I’ve got this big, crazy dream to spend Christmas in New York. I’m talking Rockefeller Center, ice skating, giant Christmas trees, and hot cocoa while I pretend to be in a rom-com. Sounds magical, right? But, there’s just one teeny-tiny, little problem… money.
(I had the idea after writing my last blog- Tomorrow Never Comes )
Flights, hotels, food, shopping—New York isn’t exactly a cheap date. But here’s the thing: I’ve been dipping my toes in the world of affiliate marketing and making money online, and I’m convinced that with a little hustle (and maybe a sprinkle of holiday magic), I can turn my digital dreams into a reality. So, buckle up, because I’m about to take you on a wild ride of how I’m going to generate enough cash to get me to the Big Apple!
- Affiliate Marketing: My Bread and Butter
Affiliate marketing is my main squeeze, and honestly, it’s kind of amazing. If you’re not familiar, here’s the gist: I promote products or services online, and whenever someone buys something through my special link, I earn a commission. It’s like being a digital matchmaker! I started after reading The Iceberg Effect by Dean Holland (CLICK HERE for your free copy)
I’m planning to amp up my affiliate game by:
Niche Blogging- Writing blog posts that are all about those holiday must-haves. Think gift guides, cozy winter essentials, and travel gear perfect for a New York winter. My links will be sprinkled throughout like festive confetti.
TikTok Videos- I’ll create videos showcasing the best holiday deals, wrapping up reviews of products that’ll make your Christmas extra special. Unboxings, and showing everyone where I bought it from and if I as a parent approve!
Click HERE to follow my journey
Social Media Shoutouts: Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are my playgrounds. I’ll be dropping affiliate links like it’s hot, all while sharing my New York dream with my followers.
- Creating and Selling Digital Products
Why not put my knowledge to good use? I’m thinking of creating some digital goodies to help others start their own online hustle:
E-books: A guide on “How to Start Affiliate Marketing in 30 Days” Hopefully other people need to make money over the Christmas holidays and will follow my journey. Maybe TikTok hacks to grow your audience.
Printable Planners: Because every holiday season needs a little organization. I’ll create and sell Christmas shopping checklists, travel planners, and budget templates on Etsy.
Online Courses: I would love to sell “Affiliate System” This is the system I am using to support me through my journey. It’s INCREDIBLE and puts everything in one place. Hopefully, I will be able to sell this too which will help my New York fund- but also generate recurring revenue.
- Selling on Vinted: The Wardrobe Cleanout
New York requires layers, and layers require wardrobe. So, I’m planning to do a serious wardrobe declutter.
Selling Pre-Loved Fashion: I’ll list all those clothes I never wear on Vinted. Someone else gets to enjoy them, and I get one step closer to sipping hot cocoa in Central Park. I’ve already made £57 selling items I’ve not worn in YEARS!
Bundle Deals: I’ll offer bundle deals to move things faster. More closet space for me, more $$$ towards my flight.
- TikTok Shop: The New Frontier
TikTok is no longer just for dance challenges and cat videos (though I love both). I’m diving into the TikTok Shop to sell some trendy, must-have items:
Curated Collection: I’ll create collections of trending products, from winter accessories to travel gadgets. The more eyes on my videos, the more sales I make.
Affiliate Links Galore: TikTok’s algorithm loves a good viral moment, and if one of my products takes off, that’s cash in the bank.
- Freelance Writing
When you’ve got a dream, you’ve got to hustle. So, I’ll be tapping into my writing skills to bring in some extra cash:
-Freelance Blogging- I’ll write blog posts for others who need help during the busy holiday season. Topics like “Last-Minute Christmas Gifts” and “How to Travel on a Budget” are sure to be in demand.
- Seasonal Side Gigs
If all else fails, I’m not above picking up a festive side gig. There’s always room in the budget for a little extra:
– Market Stalls: Selling handmade crafts or holiday treats at local markets. Children are brilliant at this. My daughter will love this little project, and this will be a great opportunity to involve her in our trip. She will need spending money too!
– Gift Wrapping Services: Offering my wrapping skills to those who are all thumbs with tape and ribbon.
The Countdown to Christmas
So there you have it—a game plan that’s part hustle, part holiday spirit, and a whole lot of determination. Will it be easy? Probably not. Will it be worth it? Absolutely. Because if I can pull this off, I’ll be sipping eggnog in New York, staring up at the biggest Christmas tree I’ve ever seen, and knowing that I made it happen.
If you want to join me on this journey (or just want to cheer me on from the sidelines), keep an eye on my blog for updates. And who knows? Maybe next year, we’ll all be celebrating in the Big Apple together!
Wish me luck—and if you’ve got any tips, drop them in the comments below!
Here’s to Christmas in New York and the power of a little online hustle!
Hi Sarah – I absolutely love your plan and love your goal to get to New York City for Christmas! The city is so unique and so beautiful. It becomes even more alive during the holiday season. I have been a few times, just not during Christmas (I’m a little jealous 🙂 ) and as you said if you have a little bit of hustle and a little bit of magic it will all mix together this will absolutely happen! It is encouraging to see that you are very diversified and how you’re going to fund this trip. Your ideas sound very good very appropriate not only for those you are trying to reach but anyone who may stumble upon your content. Speaking of your content, your videos and blog are truly fantastic! The items that you chose to market are not only practical but truly add value. It is a complete win-win outcome for you and your customers. I just know you’re going to make this happen and I can’t wait to hear all about your trip and see your pictures! Have a great day, my friend!
Thank you so much Ernie. I’m really determined to get there. I keep researching all the different things we can do, which keeps me motivated and determined. It just seems so magical and I cant wait to get there. I really appreciate your kind comment and has given me another motivation boost. Thank you so much for following my journey.
NYC is the perfect place to “catch” the Christmas Spirit! I will always remember going there as a child of 12 with my brother’s wife’s family. Not to be a downer, but I sensed the suffering of the people on the streets, at the time. The haves and the have nots, as it were, in perfect juxtaposition. Nowadays, the street people are relegated to parts unknown.
They exist but where?
Christmas in New York is amazing and I know with this plan you are sure to get there. I love how you’re turning your dream into a reality with such a creative approach. Your plan to use affiliate marketing, TikTok, and digital products to fund your trip is brilliant and shows how once you set a goal and formulate a plan, anything is possible! I can’t wait to hear about your New York adventure!
Sarah, I think you’re on to something great. I mean, like who doesn’t like a little get-away or short holiday? Holiday must-haves plus the five other ways you mention might be the ticket for sipping eggnog in New York!
I wish you much luck and I rather like your determination!
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Thank you! I’m looking forward to sipping Eggnog I’ve never had it!) and posting a picture for you. I just have to stick to the plan and work hard.
Hi Sarah,
I absolutely love this post! Your dream of spending Christmas in New York is something so many of us want to do, and the way you’re hustling through affiliate marketing, digital products, and other creative ideas to make it happen is incredibly inspiring. I’ve been to New York a handful of times, but never at Christmas. It is simply beautiful there at that time, and I would love to see it one day. I’m excited to follow your journey and see how it all comes together. Keep us updated, New York is calling, and you’re definitely on your way!
Meredith
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Thank you Meredith. If I stick to the plan, I’m sure I’ll learn a lot and hopefully get there.
Sarah,
I am so excited for you and your family. My cousin spent Christmas in New York last year and had a wonderful time! I’m sure with your detailed plan and many avenues for income, you will succeed and have a very merry Christmas indeed! I think of the movie Serendipity. How magical! And with your whole family, it will be even more so!
Nakina
The plan is there- I just need to stick to it! I’m pleased to hear your cousin had a fab time, I’m really excited to get there, I just need the cash!
Hi Sarah, I was planning a car trip south to New York city this summer but unfortunately I had to postpone the trip because of my short budget. The road you chose to take is remarkable! You niched down into such a great idea! Wish you great success with all the fun you deserve in New York!
Martin
Thank you Martin. I’m sorry you didn’t get there this Summer. I love how you can drive there- blows my mind that you can do it. New York is such a magical place for us Brits!
Hi Sarah,
I like it! Totally worth the work and the grind!
You are right, everything has a cost and sometimes (well, actually, all the time) planning is definitely the way to go.
I really like your plan and niche. It has everything you need to succeed.
I was once told that planning is half the battle won! Coming from a military family, I can assure you that it has always been a good part of my every day life — granted though, some times, it went sideways! LOL!
All the best and can’t wait to read how your plan is coming to fruition!
Thanks Marc. I have a plan and as long as I stick to it, I’m hoping it will work. If not, at least I’ll learn from it.
Sounds like a great goal, and a good plan to make it happen. The TikTok shop is an especially interesting prospect.
I’m giving it a go….. I’ve got parcel bags on and got 2 more items lined up. I just need to put everything into it, which I’ve not yet. Thanks Nathan
Wow, your plans are fantastic! With your personality and obvious drive, I can see you in New York for sure. Good luck!
Fingers crossed the plan works out! Thanks Andy
Hey Sarah, I’m rooting for you. This is so awesome, and all of your ideas are surely going to get results. I can’t wait to follow your journey and see how you’re doing. If I can think of anything that could push you through faster, I will let you know… I want to see that picture of you sipping cocoa in front of that giant Christmas tree in Times Square.
Thank you Vanessa. I’m going to work really hard to get there. I’ve got a plan so I just need to stick to it to get the results I need! Thank you for commenting x