Post #421320 by bigbrotiki on Sat, Nov 29, 2008 12:39 AM

From what I have seen in the Tiki revival, one of the main factors for survival is LOCATION. And an understanding of the restaurant business and the STAMINA to work and deal with the unwanted aspects of operating a public hang out, whatever its theme might be. Because that will become a main factor once the initial romance is over. To just WANT to own a Tiki Bar is not enough, you might be better off to build one for yourself in your basement and continue your regular job, Tiki culture might loose its fun factor if it BECOMES your regular job.

I wish the LOVE for Tiki culture, and the desire to create a perfect Tiki environment would be enough. But there have been several examples of Tiki Bars that opened since the year 2000 that were very passionate projects that were well executed, but closed after a a few years. Unfortunately the Tiki community here and out there is not sufficient to keep such a business afloat. It might help, but the general public, which any business needs, will not come running just because you have carved idols as decor.

Don't be surprised if you get a hesitant reaction here on this board, because there are numerous creative members here who have been disappointed (at best), and downright burned (in some cases) after having contributed their work and time (often for free) for new Tiki establishments that, even though they turned out as fine examples of Tiki places, closed shop either because they were not in the right location, or the "Tiki fan" part of the owner's motivation had been satisfied and they threw the towel.

I am not at all insinuating that your plans are not well thought out and you're able to carry through, they certainly sound like they are. I am just providing food for thought and consideration. I support any and all attempts to further Tiki culture, and if you are that well balanced mixture of being a passionate host, a business man, and a Polynesiac that it takes to run a good Tiki establishment, you will succeed. I believe that Ventura, and beach cities in general, are basically good locations for such a concept, but might come down to the right STREET, even.

I think to get a glamor rendering of the ideal place as you see it would be important to get funding. There are talented folks here on TC who could whip up such a rendering, but if you don't find volunteers, you might have to offer a little pay. A less expensive alternative would be to copy exteriors and interiors from the Book of Tiki (or Tiki Modern) and create a portfolio of ELEMENTS that will make up your place. It won't be IT, but it will be something to show.