Behind every Lowcountry hustle is a good cleaning: Meet Jacob Weaver
This is the third of a multi-series of feature stories that will highlight residents in Beaufort County who balance multiple jobs to provide an insight into the economic climate and workforce of the Lowcountry region.
The Lowcountry region, renowned for its bustling tourism industry, also boasts a diverse and evolving job market. From the sandy beaches of Hilton Head up to the historic brick buildings of downtown Beaufort, new opportunities and activity are around every corner.
From a handful of seasonal gigs, the constant influx of visitors and the need to keep up with everyday finances, many residents often balance multiple jobs to navigate the ever-changing economic landscape. Despite their quirky name, side hustles are more than a fun activity for most and provide necessary income and support that requires constant attention.
Born and raised on Hilton Head, at just 23, Jacob Weaver works as a real estate sales associate by day and operates a full-scale cleaning business on the side.
On top of the demanding aspects of working in real estate, Weaver spends an extra 40 hours each week for his cleaning business, Bubbles and Grime, which employs 12 people total.
While his days are usually packed from dawn until well after dark, here’s how he manages to wear both hats:
Why a cleaning business?
Weaver says he’s motivated by a mix of his faith, financial stability and long-term freedom.
“I go on a lot of mission trips,” he said. “With real estate, you always have to be on call. I wanted something I could scale, that would eventually bring in income passively and give me a little more flexibility.”
The idea to start a cleaning business came during a mission trip last summer to Belize. He found himself juggling work calls while abroad and realized he needed a way to step back without losing income.
“I love service-based businesses,” Weaver said. “Especially around here, where there’s a relatively older population and people who often need help, these cleaning services are in high demand.”
Working in real estate, Weaver also understands the value and importance that cleaning services provide to homeowners. Now, Bubbles and Grime receive about one to two calls every single week from customers asking for work.
He purchased Bubbles and Grime not long after that trip, and later brought on a business partner, Daniel Iles, whom he credits with helping shoulder the load and keeping the company moving forward.
The learning curve & lessons learned
Even though Weaver states the cleaning business is much more time-consuming than anticipated, he’s still fully committed to real estate, which is where he makes the income he lives on. Right now, all earnings from the cleaning company are reinvested back into the business.
“Balance is very difficult. I probably spend 40 to 50 hours a week on the cleaning company and go from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day,” Weaver said. “But I’m thankful I’m in a stage of life where I can do that.”
Diving in head first, running a company and being responsible for a team of 12 came with a steep learning curve and the pressure of constant decision making.
“The biggest surprise was the hidden costs of being an employer,” Weaver said. “It’s not just about writing checks. There’s insurance, payroll taxes and even just finding space to store supplies. It adds up fast.”
Despite the grit of behind-the-scenes work as an owner, the rewards make the grind worthwhile.
“The best part about this whole experience for me is seeing how this business provides for other people,” Weaver said. “We’re putting food on 12 tables. That’s powerful. And I’ve learned so much about leadership, business and life through this.”
Looking ahead
Weaver’s long-term vision is to scale the cleaning company into something that mostly runs itself with the hope to free his schedule for future aspirations that involve travel, mission work and growing his real estate portfolio. He currently owns two properties and is in the middle of renovating one.
While the rush of balancing two jobs has its ups and downs, Weaver has big hopes for his future and the business.
“Long term, I want to scale the cleaning business to the point where it can run mostly without me,” he says. “That would give me more time to focus on real estate investments and do more mission work.”
While he’s quick to admit that the road with this side hustle hasn’t been easy, in the end, it was all worth it.
“There’s nothing I wish I’d known beforehand,” he said. “If I’d known everything going in, I probably would’ve been too scared to start. But I’m glad I jumped in. Challenges lead to growth.”
Despite his passion and energy toward his two roles, there is one piece of advice for future side-hustlers or those looking to take the jump he left behind: find a mentor or support system.
“When you do something new and step outside of your comfort zone, you’re going to face problems you’ve never seen before — and that’s a good thing,” he said. “A mentor can help you through those. Surround yourself with good people.”
For now, Weaver is juggling showings, scrub brushes and spreadsheets. And he’s not slowing down anytime soon.
To learn more about Bubbles and Grime, click here to visit their website.
Do you or someone you know have a Lowcountry side hustle? Please reach out via email to amiller@islandpacket.com for more information about this series.
Our previous features can be found below:
This story was originally published July 26, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
