Year in Review- How's it going?
Updated: 2 days ago
As I kick off 2025, it's the perfect time for a little self-reflection and a fun check-in on my journey. I’m excited to take a look at how far I've come with my big plans and see what tweaks I can make to keep things sailing smoothly. There are two main areas I want to chat about: my sailing adventure (a dream of mine) and the online store that’ supports the goal of sharing sailing with everyone. Let’s dive in so-to-speak.
Sailing Adventure: Setting a goal by setting sail!
The sailing adventure isn’t just a trip; it's the opportunity to set a huge goal, work towards it incrementally over time, and fulfill that goal. I’m gearing up to embrace the freedom of the open water, and that means quite a bit of planning. I’ve been diving into research about different types of boats, weighing the pros and cons, and dreaming about what would make my long journeys comfy. Size, stability, and those little amenities that make life at sea enjoyable are all on my radar. Next, I’ll be mapping out and enhancing routes, keeping an eye on the weather, and figuring out the best ports to dock and refuel my adventure.
During 2024, I spent something like 60 hours sailing—I took a lot of friends and family out so I could practice turning novices into true blue crew. It was a blast! Picture this: friends who had never stepped foot on a boat before, suddenly getting the hang of the ropes (literally!) and feeling the thrill of the wind in their hair. I gained 2 sailing certifications, made some sailing friends, and got a lot of experience on boats ranging in size from 22 feet all the way to 33 feet in length. It’s amazing how each boat has its own personality, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know each one of them. I got experience in a variety of weather conditions, from sunny skies to a sprinkle of rain, and did a ton of practice docking, anchoring, setting and trimming sails, and all the other tasks necessary to sail either solo or with a crew.
As I prepare for my upcoming sailing trip, I find myself contemplating the experiences that lie ahead on the open water. The fresh sea air, the rhythmic sound of waves against the hull, and the stunning sunsets are all part of the allure. I can envision myself at the helm, steering through clear waters with my crew, exchanging stories and making lasting memories. Here's to the journey ahead, the challenges to face, and the satisfaction of sailing toward new horizons!
Online Store: The Wind in My Sales!
Now, let’s talk about the online store, which serves as more than just a platform for generating some extra cash; it embodies a vision and a lifestyle that many people aspire to embrace. This venture is an exploration of a captivating idea: "What if tiki culture existed in the Caribbean?" This concept invites individuals to imagine a vibrant world where the enchanting elements of tiki culture—such as tropical aesthetics, laid-back vibes, and a celebration of island life—blend seamlessly with the rich history and natural beauty of the Caribbean islands. The store curates a diverse selection of products that not only resonate with this dream but also embody the spirit of adventure and relaxation that tiki culture represents.
The range of offerings includes everything from handcrafted tiki mugs and tropical-themed accessories that transforms any life into a paradise reminiscent of the Caribbean. Each product is thoughtfully chosen to evoke a sense of nostalgia and wanderlust, allowing customers to bring a piece of this imagined world into their everyday lives. In addition to providing unique and appealing products, the store serves as a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and support a shared vision. It is not merely about transactions; it is about cultivating a community of enthusiasts who believe in the dream of tiki culture flourishing in the Caribbean.
When I take a moment to reflect on how the store is performing, I find myself pleasantly surprised by the response it has garnered. The numbers indicate a growing interest and engagement, suggesting that I may have stumbled upon something genuinely fun and intriguing. It’s exciting to see that others resonate with this vision, and the store has become a space where creativity and commerce intersect. The feedback and support from customers inspire me to delve deeper into this concept and explore its many facets.
Here are some metrics on what has been going on
Its clear that there is a favorite- The Muerte Mug is by far the most popular, followed by the 4 piece set. During 2025, I hope to expand our offerings by a lot with new products- not everyone is a tiki-drink-drinker but I want to offer products that have value and support my mission and vision.
Looking ahead, I am eager to analyze which products are making waves in the market. Understanding customer preferences and trends will be crucial as I strive to enhance my offerings and create even more compelling items that align with the tiki-Caribbean dream. By gathering insights and feedback, I hope to refine the product line, ensuring that it not only meets the desires of the community but also continues to inspire and delight. This journey is just beginning, and I am excited to see how the store evolves and grows, fostering a deeper connection to the enchanting world of tiki culture in the Caribbean.
Charting the Course Ahead
In a nutshell, both my sailing adventure and the online store are part of the same exciting journey. As I step into this new year, I’m taking a moment to assess where I’m at in both areas, spotting any bumps in the road, and brainstorming how to navigate around them. This evaluation isn’t just about tracking progress; it’s all about aligning my efforts to fully embrace my dreams while building a thriving business that supports my adventurous lifestyle. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!
Stay tuned for the next installment, as we're picking up speed quickly!
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