Get to know our new members - Yellowave

We caught up with new members Yellowave, to find out how they managed to bring a slice of sunny Californian beach life to Brighton's seafront.

Tell us a bit about Yellowave and what you do

We’re the UK’s only beach sports venue of its kind. We have six beach volleyball courts, a cafe, BBQ, a kids’ sandy play area and a beautiful hireable room called the Clubhouse with direct sea views. We basically offer people the opportunity to live a UK version of the beach life I experienced whilst living in California. 

What’s changed since you started the business?

When we first opened no one thought we’d succeed. We had lots of disbelievers thinking that beach volleyball in England was a daft idea due to the climate. The biggest change is people’s attitudes. They can now see that beach volleyball is a fantastic, highly addictive sport which can be played in most weathers. We’ve also been astounded by the dedication of players and how complete beginners, who’ve never played before have developed so fast.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

I love planning all the events for the year, finding a perfect partner to sponsor one of our bigger tournaments and coming up with ideas where we can give something back to the community. This year’s community schedule includes a beach cleanup, a free children’s book workshop and a charity Volleython. We also offer every school in Brighton & Hove free use of the courts.

But the best bit of the job is the moment I walk in to see the venue being used as it should – the Clubhouse might have a business meeting going on, the courts full of players getting coached, a group of work colleagues having a team building tournament, the cafe serving breakfasts and wizzing up fresh smoothies to customers sat on the decking and toddlers happily playing in the sand pit. The vibe of the place is just wonderful.  It’s the beach feel, the Yellowave staff and the community of people using it that is so special. 

How do businesses use your venue?

They used to simply come and hire a court after work but more recently there has been a shift. They are spending much longer at the venue and making an afternoon or whole day of it. For example, last week we had a company book the Clubhouse room for some training in the morning. They then went on to have a beach volleyball taster session with one of our coaches followed by lunch, an afternoon doing some planning before getting back on court for a fun tournament. The day ended late afternoon with a BBQ and a ‘tongue in cheek’ awards ceremony. The staff looked like they had such a great day. 

What are the benefits to businesses of having some down-time, or playing a game of beach volleyball?

I think the main benefit is seeing colleagues in a different light. It’s like all office politics dissolve as each person takes their shoes and socks off and dip their feet into the warm sand. It’s impossible not to giggle as you see your boss or work mates dive about in the soft sand. Add in a cold beer and it’s like having a mini holiday with your colleagues.

What do you love about doing business in Brighton?

I love the fact that the city has such a diverse range of businesses and that the people running them are so interesting. Everyone has some sort of hobby. You just can’t make any assumptions. A 50yr old businessman in a grey suit might be off kite surfing after work or demonstrating at an environmental march in London at the weekend. Business life in Brighton is so refreshing.

How do businesses find out more, or get involved?

Give us a call on 01273 672222, email: info@yellowave.co.uk or visit our website.

Courts cost £22/hr. The Clubhouse costs £20-30/hr.

Anyone interested in finding out about sponsoring an event should email: Katie@yellowave.co.uk

Thanks to Yellowave for telling us a bit about themselves. You'll definitely be seeing us out there on the pitch!

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk