I posted this a long time ago, but because the season is starting back up. it's prime time:
Hey everyone, just wanted to share a quick tip on how to make a little extra cash with very little work involved. (No this isn't some scam or ponzi scheme or whatever, this is something YOU have to go out and do). Let's get right to it:
Monster truck rallies, concerts, etc. all have one thing in common - some people find them extremely loud, especially when it comes to young children. These people will be looking for a way to block out the noise, and what better way than a pair of ripoff $5+ disposable earplugs inside the venue? Here's where you come in. Say you were to buy a bulk box of earplugs (in my experience, a box of 50 for $7 + tax), stand outside the venue, and sell them for way under the price of the ones inside ($1-$2).
When I started, I didn't expect much of a demand, but man was I wrong. I sold all 3 of my boxes in an hour and a half at the local monster truck rally. Selling them for a dollar each, I grossed just under $150 (cutting some deals for large families). Give or take, that's about $100/hr (minus the cost of the earplugs of course). It's essentially a win-win situation: you make some extra cash, and you help people avoid getting ripped off inside the venue.
Here is a little disclaimer however: You may encounter venue security. In my city, the venue I chose to sell at owns an entire block, but doesn't own the sidewalk. I initially tried selling on the premises, however was quickly escorted to the sidewalk, where they told me I could LEGALLY sell. Make sure to check with your local laws! Luckily, the area where I finally settled on funneled two large parking garages, which I think helped the sales quite a bit. The key is to make a single sale, which in turn entices people to come check out what you're selling. As long as you're constantly saying "$1 here! $5 in there!" you're bound to get some customers.
Just thought I'd share a small tip for those of you wanting some quick cash, and while it does involve social situations (which I personally am generally adverse to), once I got into the swing of it, it became sort of fun. If you're interested, I recommend looking up your nearest venue and look for events you think might have a demand (monster trucks, demolition derbies, metal concerts). You definitely should be able to find one.
Best of luck!
-Szymanski