Shaun Tookey, a 31-year-old tree surgeon from Harlow, Essex, has carved an unconventional path to homeownership. His journey began in May 2023 when he launched a unique side hustle: cleaning and restoring gravestones. What started as a supplementary income stream quickly blossomed into a thriving small business, generating enough revenue to allow Shaun and his partner to achieve the dream of buying their first home. This remarkable feat was accomplished in just over a year and a half, culminating in the purchase of their home in December 2024. His story showcases the power of entrepreneurial spirit, the potential of social media, and the profound impact a seemingly niche service can have on both the provider and the recipients.
Tookey’s grave cleaning service caters to families seeking to preserve the memory of their loved ones. He offers a range of services, from basic cleaning to full restoration, including repainting lettering and adding decorative chippings. The cost varies depending on the complexity and scope of the work, ranging from £150 to £450 per grave. While the nature of his work might seem unusual to some, Shaun finds it deeply rewarding. He derives satisfaction from helping families honor their deceased relatives and takes pride in the meticulous care he puts into each restoration project. The tangible results of his work, transforming weathered and neglected gravestones into pristine memorials, provide a sense of accomplishment and contribute to his motivation.
The success of Tookey’s venture is closely tied to his savvy use of social media. He documents his work on platforms like TikTok and Facebook under the handle @thegravecleaner, where he has amassed a following of over 34,000. His videos, showcasing the transformation process, have captured the attention of a wide audience, generating both interest and business. The visual nature of the content allows potential clients to see the quality of his work and the dramatic impact he can achieve. Social media not only serves as a marketing tool but also as a platform for educating the public about the availability of this specialized service, which many are unaware of.
While social media plays a significant role in attracting clients, Tookey also employs traditional marketing methods, distributing leaflets and cards in the community and cemeteries. This multi-pronged approach ensures wider reach and allows him to connect with individuals who may not be active on social media. His proactive engagement with potential clients, both online and offline, has proven effective in building a loyal customer base. The personal touch of direct outreach complements his online presence, creating a synergistic effect that drives business growth.
The financial rewards from his grave cleaning enterprise have been significant. Despite juggling his full-time job as a tree surgeon and dedicating only his days off and weekends to the side hustle, Shaun has managed to generate a substantial income. He typically cleans between two to four graves a day, with each job taking anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the size and condition of the headstone. This supplementary income, combined with his partner’s wages, enabled them to save for a down payment and secure a mortgage, a milestone that previously seemed unattainable.
Shaun’s story is a testament to the potential of hard work, innovation, and the willingness to embrace unconventional opportunities. His grave cleaning service not only provides a valuable service to grieving families but also offers him a sense of purpose and financial stability. By leveraging the power of social media and traditional marketing strategies, he has transformed a simple idea into a thriving business. His success is a reminder that fulfilling work can be found in unexpected places and that even seemingly niche services can fill a significant need in the community, leading to both personal and financial rewards.
