Sometimes a big idea begins as something small, coming when you least expect it and tacked on as a sort of hobby, playing second fiddle to your main event.
Whether starting in the kitchen or dorm room, these ten brands grew in unexpected ways, surprising their founders as they became multi-million dollar companies.
Here, just three of many famous women who created and built amazing companies on the side—proof that the best concepts can come when you’re pursuing something else.
#1 Jessica Alba
JERSEY CITY, NJ – APRIL 04: Jessica Alba surprises Target guests with Honest Beauty makeovers at Target on April 4, 2017 in Jersey City City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Target)
California-based actress, Jessica Alba well known by her roles in movies such as ‘Fantastic Four’, ‘SIn City’ as well as the TV Show ‘Dark Angel’, once she developed a successful on-screen career, she decided to channel her creativity in another area.
Alba founded her company The Honest Co. in 2011 with main focus on providing eco-conscious, non-toxic household items that kids a “safer, better start”.
The company has grown immensely and in 2015 is valued with $ 1.7 billion.
#2 Sarah Blakely
The process and developing Blakely’s famous company ‘Spanx’ proves that a good idea is worth the time. Spanx sold $4 million worth of product in its first year, and Blakely was named the world’s youngest, self-made billionaire by Forbes Magazine in 2012.
And how was Spanx invented? Blakely, a native of Florida, had the idea for a seamless undergarment while selling fax machines for an office supply company.
#3 Gwyneth Paltrow
Oscar-winning acctress Gwyneth Paltrow in 2008 launched a weekly newsletter called “Goop” offering mainly travel recommendations, lifestiye tips, and recipes.
Along with a million newsletter subscribers, ‘Goop’ has a full-fledget editorial site and an online store with their organic skincare line and fragrances, among other products.
The site simply has developed a cult following of customers who want to know how to get healthier with detoxes. So Paltrow has established herself as lifestyle guru.
‘Goop’ closed a $10 million Series B round of funding in August 2016.
