When Joey and Ashley Curtin of Big Fish Bike and Beach Rentals took the leap into business ownership, they weren’t just looking for a new job. They were seeking a way to align their work with their core values: family, time outdoors, and living life to the fullest. This commitment to an intentional lifestyle is the engine behind the company that helps customers uncover the magic of the Emerald Coast at their own pace, connecting with nature and the local community.
Finding Their Pace
For over 20 years, Big Fish Bike & Beach Rentals has provided Northwest Florida with a large variety of brightly colored bicycles to individuals and families vacationing along Highway 30A and the surrounding areas. Joey and Ashley acquired the company in 2023 and expanded business offerings to include Beach Services, Bonfires, and Paddle Board rentals. They also rebranded the company to better align with their vision and values.
The company’s philosophy is rooted in a desire for freedom and presence. “We have always chased value and lifestyle,” one of the founders shares. “What do we value as a family? What do we care about? How do we want to raise our children and model what we’re doing? It was always being together, being outside, and spending time together—not working. We are not living to work, we are working to live. And this was our way to do it.”
This drive was inspired by the thriving community around them. “This is the community to see other women be so inspired,” she adds. “I was never one of those people who had a specific vision of where I wanted to be, I just knew how I wanted to feel. I wanted free time and I wanted to be with my family”.
Navigating the Business Coast with SBDC
While their vision was crystal clear, the complexities of business ownership can often feel overwhelming. Ashley recognized they needed professional support to grow effectively and sustainably. That’s when they were introduced to the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
To Joey and Ashley’s relief, the consulting services at the SBDC were entirely no-cost. “When we were introduced to the SBDC, I knew there was value, but I was sure it would cost money,” shared Ashley. “Turns out the whole thing is free. And it’s not bad free. It’s amazing free. It’s highly intelligent, highly educated industry folks.”
Through the SBDC’s guidance, particularly with consultant Terry Mauer, Joey and Ashley received the financing support they needed to successfully acquire Big Fish Bike & Beach Rentals.“These are people who worked in that specific industry and then came back to teach other people and their sole purpose is to make you successful. There is no money exchanged, it’s just ‘how do we grow your business? How do we get you up off the ground and moving forward?’”
Paddling Forward
Today, Big Fish Bike & Beach Rentals continues to thrive as a successful business built on the foundation of family, health, and freedom. Since expanding operations, Joey and Ashley were able to grow their revenue by almost 35% in the past two years.
By leveraging the expertise and no-cost guidance of the SBDC, they have been able to keep their focus on what matters most: helping their customers connect with the beauty of the Emerald Coast and living a purpose-driven life.
To find out more about their collection of bikes, paddle boards, and beach packages, visit Big Fish Bike and Beach Rentals and connect with them on social media.
Ready to start your own entrepreneurial journey? Connect with the Florida SBDC at UWF for comprehensive support at no cost. The experienced team provides the same guidance that helped Big Fish Bike and Beach Rentals achieve success.