This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 136th installment visiting with Amanda and Glen Morse, owners of Wake Up Rentals which provides people in East TN with fun water excursion activities.
Describe what Wake Up Rentals does. We rent jet skis, tubes, and wake boards by the hour or by the day.
How did you get started? We saw a need for jet ski rentals in this area after we attempted to rent some for a party last summer and were unable to do so.
What is your background? I’ve got a degree in Science Engineering and my wife has a degree in Education. Together we understand the mechanics of the skis and how to work with the public.
Who is your mentor? Our biggest supporter has been our family. They are always there to support us and cheer us on as we go after our dreams.
Describe your customers. Our customers are fun, adventure seeking, water enthusiasts. They enjoy a thrilling and gorgeous day in the beautiful lakes of East Tennessee.
What environments impact your business? The two areas that mostly affect our business are economic and environmental. Because jet ski rental is purely for entertainment purposes, the local economy must be strong so that our customers have the funds to spend on excursions such as ours. Also, environmental factors from the weather and lake pollution greatly affect our business as well. It’s important to us as business owners and residents of Blount County to keep our waterways free of garbage and other pollutants.
Name three things you wish you knew when you started. My wife wishes she knew how to maneuver a trailer full of jet skis before our first rental. I wish I knew of more insurance companies willing to offer coverage for my business at a more reasonable rate.
What do you enjoy about the business? The two most enjoyable aspects of running a jet ski rental business is spending the day out doors on the lake front and the opportunity to meet new people.