Today we’d like to introduce you to Gerhard Veit.
Gerhard – please share your story with us.
Fuddled Frog Tours LLC was founded by my mother Stacie Veit and myself.
We work closely on all operational aspects of the business. As an avid paddler, I also act as a tour guide.
Late in 2016 Jerry Veit, father of Samantha and myself and husband to Stacie, suffered a heart attack and passed away while playing rugby at the Can-Am rugby tournament in Saranac Lake, New York. This annual tournament has been a long-standing tradition and always gathers a crowd of friends and family. Amidst this tragic loss, everyone pulled together and celebrated Jerry in proper Jerry fashion. Beer and exaggerated glory stories were exchanged until we could no longer bear. This web of support was almost tangible. As if this support was not enough, a GoFundMe account was created and people generously donated money to our family.
Funding for this company was received from the GoFundMe account created after Jerry passed and self-funding from Stacie and myself. Thus, this company’s roots are deeply embedded within the community and is built off the love and support of friends, family, and even strangers. None of this would have been possible without them. We will do everything within our power to make this a success and reciprocate all the love and support we have received.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Undoubtedly, the biggest obstacle we faced was simply being first time business owners.
At first, the entire process seemed daunting. We didn’t have the first clue as what to do.
We made seemingly endless phone calls and read enough articles for an entire lifetime. As grueling as it was, it was a very rewarding experience.
Still in the very beginning phases, we are certain to face more obstacles. We’ve already learned very quickly that forming a business is an expensive process. Just when things are looking up, something goes wrong. Either something falls apart, or you realize that this grand idea you’ve had really is not all that grand.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Fuddled Frog Tours – what should we know?
We currently offer paddle board and kayak rentals/tours. Eventually we will begin running sightseeing tours and camping trips to various destinations in Florida, and then begin organizing national and international trips.
Our Mission:
Fuddled Frog Tours will bring unprecedented fun on a budget to any traveler or local looking for a new way to experience South Florida. We aspire to provide a genuinely safe and comfortable environment that promotes cultural diversity and where social interaction is inevitable. Furthermore, we seek to constantly adapt and grow from our experiences with each guest, and aim to ensure that each guest is completely content.
Our Vision:
To facilitate an unparalleled travel experience with safe, leisurely, and affordable options that ultimately sets an exemplary standard in the tourism industry.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Although it’s tempting to take all the glory for myself, none of this would have been possible without my mother, Stacie Veit. She has taken a huge risk forming this company with me, and plays a critical role. Aside from my co-founder and mother, I have to give a huge shout out to Topho Sanon, Yuri Chiffoleau, and Morgan Longstreth.
Despite being a startup with no certain future, these individuals all jumped on board with us. We are very thankful to have them on our team.
Furthermore, we’ve had an immense amount of support from family, friends, and even strangers. People have gone out of their way to help us and it is truly inspiring. I would give everyone a shout out, but you know who you are. The Fuddled Frog Tours family loves you.
Pricing:
- 2 Hour Paddle Board/Kayak Rental – $30
- 2 Hour Open Group Paddle Board/Kayak Tour – $45
- 2 Hour Private Group Paddle Board/Kayak Tour – $60
Contact Info:
- Address: 2449 Northeast 13th Avenue, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305
- Website: https://www.fuddledfrogtours.com/
- Phone: 954-817-4726
- Email: info@fuddledfrogtours.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fuddledfrogtours/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fuddledfrogtours
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/fuddledfrogtour
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/fuddled-frog-tours-wilton-manors
- Other: https://plus.google.com/u/0/102644256829300834487
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
