Isabelle “Izzy” Tihanyi and Caroline “Coco” Tihanyi have a simple enough business philosophy — get wet, have fun. The fraternal twin sisters and lifelong beachcombers started out offering surfing lessons to other women, and built a pretty rad business along the way.
Today, Surf Diva includes children’s camps, international excursions, and even a budding line of apparel and surfboards. The Tihanyi sisters also authored a book in 2005 called “Surf Diva: A Girl’s Guide to Getting Good Waves.” So what’s it like to run a business in paradise?
“In the beginning, I would teach all the classes myself. Now, we have a good core of trained instructors. People need to know proper board techniques and etiquette to teach, or someone could really get hurt. We also work with the Red Cross to give our instructors training on CPR and lifesaving techniques,” Izzy said.
“We’re one of few surf-related companies owned by women, and we like to give women opportunities to grow. We want to be the number-one surf school and brand for women and girls. That’s why we introduced a line of surfboards last year along with some bathing suits and board shorts. Our goal is to eventually be known as a surf boutique, with more schools, apparel, and even restaurants and resorts.” Coco said.
Photo by Surf Diva.
FranchiseBrief.com on May 3rd, 2007 at 12:03 pm
SurfDivas are HUGE in SoCal. They should start franchising this concept as it is very compelling to women and in growth demand
Heel on November 26th, 2007 at 9:26 am