We were lucky to catch up with Michaela Brewer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Michaela, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.
The Barebones Experience is undeniably unique and memorable. Our surf trips are intentionally designed to give our guests the most authentic, community focused experience (on a budget). I have followed a similar approach and business model with my Real Estate Business in Charleston, South Carolina. I aim to provide my real estate clients an authentic, approachable experience in what can otherwise be a stressful and overwhelming process.
At Barebones Surf we don’t claim to provide the most fancy, luxurious, extravagant surf trips- in fact, we went the opposite direction and have created an affordable surf experience that focuses on the true essential elements of a surf trip- safety, accommodation, surfing, community and food.
We do this by cutting out the unnecessary frills and partnering with locals to ensure our trips directly benefit the community that is hosting us while offering a cultural experience to our guests. From the surf coaches, to the accommodation to the food.. its all local. Real people. Real Experiences.
Full Disclosure- the Barebones experience isn’t for everyone- and thats okay! We didn’t set out to create a “one size fits all” surf trip. We created a trip for the surfer that is down to get a little dirty and gritty. The guest that values experiences over material possessions. The traveller that thrives being pushed just slightly out of their comfort zone to try something new. We strive to create an environment for real experiences, authentic community and memories that last a lifetime.
Michaela, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I got my first glimpse of the elusive concept of “work, life balance” when I was in my early twenties. I had finished my degree and jumped headfirst into the popular work cycle of 9am-5pm/ Monday- Friday. What I now consider to be a series of fortunate events- meeting the right people that inspired me and saying yes to the right opportunities that encouraged me, I took a leap of faith and decided it was time for a change. I saved up money, sold off my things and booked a flight with no real plans. It was scary and unconventional, but it was freedom. As I traveled around the world and immersed myself in different cultures I quickly realized there was more than one way of living and working. I was in awe of the people who had found that balance of work and play without sacrificing sleep and self care. It is at that time that I set my focus on “Balance” and finding my version.
Fast forward a few years and here I am- living my version of “work, life balance”; as a Realtor in Charleston, South Carolina and the Co-Founder of Barebones Surf. The opportunity to showcase the unique charm of the Lowcountry, paired with my genuine love for the community, laid the foundation for my real estate career. The fortunate chain of events continued as I found myself running surf trips in El Salvador. The experiences gained from traveling and meeting people from diverse backgrounds became invaluable in shaping the ethos of Barebones Surf and my Real Estate career.
Both in real estate and surf culture, I’ve carved a niche by offering safe, approachable, and no-nonsense experiences. My philosophy revolves around making surf, travel, and home buying and selling accessible to everyone by stripping away unnecessary complications. I’ve found that authenticity and a casual, real, and approachable demeanor resonate with people seeking a genuine connection.
One of the unique aspects of my approach is simplifying what is often considered complicated. In the world of real estate, I’ve made the process more transparent and less stressful, ensuring my clients feel at ease every step of the way. Similarly, Barebones Surf reflects this philosophy by providing surf trips that embody simplicity and community without compromising on experience.
Moving forward, as we continue to grow and expand, my goals are anchored in balance and shared experiences. From guiding buyers and sellers with real estate in the charming low country to providing affordable and community-focused surf trips with Barebones Surf, the journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, simplicity, and a laid-back spirit. With a focus on making real estate, surfing, and travel accessible to everyone, I look forward to scaling with a genuine and approachable spirit.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
Our reputation in the market has been meticulously crafted through a deliberate focus on authenticity, inclusivity, and a commitment to providing genuine experiences. By targeting a specific audience in both real estate and Barebones Surf trips, we’ve fostered a community of individuals who resonate with our values and approach.
In real estate, my reputation is built on the understanding that homeownership is a personal journey. I have established myself as a Realtor who prioritizes authentic connections, creating a welcoming atmosphere for clients who appreciate the importance of finding a home that aligns with their lifestyle and values.
On the Barebones Surf side, our reputation is rooted in the fact that our surf trips are not for everyone – and that’s precisely what sets us apart. By tailoring experiences for individuals who embrace a more adventurous, slightly gritty surf adventure, we’ve cultivated a niche market of travelers seeking authentic experiences over a generic, one-size-fits-all approach.
The emphasis on inclusivity and approachability has created a positive and welcoming reputation. We’re known for curating an environment where real people come together to share in the joy of genuine connections, creating memories that extend beyond the typical surf or real estate experience. Our commitment to making surf, travel, and home ownership accessible to everyone, regardless of financial considerations, has further solidified our reputation as businesses with a heart, catering to the true essence of our clientele.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The intentional focus on authenticity, inclusivity, and genuine experiences in both real estate and Barebones Surf has become a catalyst for positive word-of-mouth, creating a ripple effect that consistently brings in new clients.
In the realm of real estate, my commitment to personalized, authentic connections has resonated with clients, leading to positive testimonials and recommendations. Homebuying is a significant life event, and clients who have had a positive, stress-free experience are eager to share their stories with friends and family. The word-of-mouth referrals often come from individuals who value similar principles, creating a network of prospective clients with shared values and interests.
Similarly, in the Barebones Surf business, our unique approach to surf trips has garnered a loyal following. Those who have embarked on our adventures, appreciating the emphasis on authenticity and the slightly gritty experience, become enthusiastic advocates. The target market we’ve cultivated often consists of individuals who share their passion for surf, travel, and real experiences with friends who hold similar values. These recommendations from friends within the same target demographic have proven to be an effective way to bring in new clients who are predisposed to aligning with our brand.
The beauty of our target market is that they often move within circles of friends who share similar values and interests. As a result, the positive experiences of one client become a powerful endorsement within a network, creating a steady stream of new clients who are not just customers but individuals who resonate with the ethos of our businesses. The authenticity that defines our approach becomes a compelling narrative, sparking curiosity and interest among those who hear about us through these trusted word-of-mouth channels.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.barebonessurf.com/ and https://michaelabrewer.exprealty.com
- Instagram: @barebonessurf and @michaela.brewer_chsrealtor
Image Credits
Clara Guedelhoff Stuart Bowers