In an inspiring story of creativity and entrepreneurship, 17-year-old Caelan McDonald from Lancaster, UK, is making $19,000 (₹16 lakh) every month by selling stickers. This unique business idea, which began during the festive season, has grown rapidly and turned into a full-time venture.
A Christmas Gift Turned Opportunity
Interestingly, Caelan’s journey began with a simple Christmas gift. In 2021, his mother, Karen Newsham, gifted him a $191 Cricut Joy machine. This device, capable of cutting, drawing, and printing designs, sparked his creativity. Soon, he started making transfers for glassware and acrylic items.
Moreover, when he shared these creations on Facebook, he began receiving orders for personalized products. This marked the start of his entrepreneurial journey.
From Part-Time Hobby to Full-Time Success
Initially, Caelan worked on his business after college, dedicating three hours daily. By early 2024, he was selling 200 items each month. However, his growing success encouraged him to take the next step. He quit school and invested in industrial printers to scale up production.
Since July, he has earned an impressive $94,410 (₹79 lakh) by selling his creations on TikTok Shop and other platforms.
Surprising Growth and Hard Work
Reflecting on his journey, Caelan admitted he didn’t anticipate such success. “It’s 100% the best Christmas present I ever got—it’s the gift that keeps on giving,” he shared. Furthermore, he noted, “In June, I thought, ‘I’ll just give it a try,’ and it’s gone crazy. Now I’m so busy I hardly ever stop.”
Smart Investments for Growth
Despite his significant earnings, Caelan focuses on reinvesting in his business. “I just invest everything back into the business,” he explained. Even so, he enjoys treating himself occasionally, saying, “It’s nice to update my phone or iPad when I need to.”
An Inspiring Example for Young Entrepreneurs
Undoubtedly, Caelan’s story highlights the power of creativity and perseverance. From a thoughtful Christmas gift to a thriving business, his journey proves that with determination and resourcefulness, anyone can turn a simple idea into a successful enterprise.
