Home-Based formal gown hire

Grads and prom-goers, wedding guests, bridesmaids, and people attending galas or formal events who don't want to buy an outfit worn once.

A rental fee per outfit for a set period (often a few days), plus a refundable damage deposit and optional fees for alterations, accessories or late returns.

• Eye for fit and style
• Basic sewing and garment care
• Organised booking and stock tracking
• Friendly customer service

• Home-based business licence or zoning rules for client visits, check with your municipality
• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for stock kept at home
• Damage, stains and late returns, so use clear rental terms and a deposit
• Peak demand in prom and wedding seasons, with quiet months in between
• GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on how many gowns and formal pieces you buy and how you set up your fitting space. These are estimates, so your own figure will vary with the size of your collection.

Check home-based business licence or zoning rules for client visits with your municipality. Also check commercial general liability insurance and cover for stock kept at home, and GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on your stock, pricing and bookings. Demand peaks in prom and wedding seasons, with quieter months in between, so your income will vary through the year.