Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Syrjala.
Hi Michael, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In 2019, I moved back home to northern michigan, during covid epidemic. I started out buying 4 inflatable kayaks to rent out floating in the Bay. Because of social distancing, things took off! However, inflatable kayaks weren’t exactly the best for the Great Lakes. There was alot of struggle finding kayaks that season, due to covid and outdoor products selling out across many states in America! I ended up borrowing a few kayaks from friends and family and it was a constant flow of shuffling kayaks around town and jumping through hoops to get legit as a business. After a few years, I created a good clientele and had plenty of returning customers as well as getting involved with some events. In 2024, I started renting some jet skis as well and that took off, quick! Went from to 2 to 4 skis, then 6 then 8. Within 2 years. I do this alone and try yo find volunteer workers or young students. I do not have a “consistent” job for someone tho, therefore it makes it harder for find help. Each year is alot of work to pack up and store everything and set up in the spring can be difficult, but I make it work. I have future plans of a food truck, and some putt putt, and other golf attractions.. im going on my 6th year and it is nice to be here knowing I did everything on my own. It was hard. I failed alot. I let some ppl down. I had some close calls. I’ve disappointed some people. But, I am proud of what ive created and hope others are as well. I truly started this because of convenience when I needed to get by, but I continue it for what it helps in the community that is my hometown. At this point, im trying to secure an easy set up n break down seasonally, and a similar lifestyle for the rest of the year. Cheers!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I mean, no. Moving back to the yoop every year is hard enough…its far from everywhere! Its cold in june! Its such a short season. Its hardly worth coming yearly, but I appreciate the feeling of pride i have for keeping this business open. And my home town community love and support is like none anywhere else I have lived!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I do whatever I possibly can to make a great, fun, and safe experience for my customers! I imagine how many memories ive made with family and loved ones when we used to get together and I respect when families all still do that, and make it work. There’s usually stress and stuff and I try to help smooth out the disagreements by caring, being passionate about being sure they have fun, and no bad memories. If I can create the best time of someone’s vacation? Im going to!
What makes you happy?
Other people being happy, period.
Also my dog, usually.
There’s lots of stuff but my true dopamine kick, is putting smiles on other ppls faces!
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