Today we’d like to introduce you to Clarke Ledger.
Hi Clarke, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I first come into the Surf Industry through a local shop called Mitch’s in Solana Beach and continued to work there through my college years. During that time, I met a lot of great people and are still connected to them in one way or another. After college, I was able to travel around the world for almost a year, and when I come back, I was able to get a job in outside sales withing the surf industry. This opened my eyes to all the different shops that are in southern California, and I started taking notes of who I thought was doing things right and how others were still staying open. An opportunity came along down the road to help some friends open a store, and when one of the partners dropped out, I tried to purchase the business, but we couldn’t agree on terms, so I set off to start from scratch and opened ATACAMA in Little Italy.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Ha, not at all. We’ve experienced so many ups and downs with this business, but in the end, I always remind myself that this is my business and that I started it to have a good time. We have struggled from theft, vandalism, employee turnover, floods, broken windows, more floods, more broken windows, and a global pandemic. Learning how to navigate all of these things has taken time, but the harder the struggle the more prepared you are for the next problem.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
We just try to specialize in being honest to everyone and create an environment that is helpful to those that are interested. We specialize in Men’s Apparel and focus on items that tend to be backed by independent artist. Honestly, I am most proud of being open for 7 years. I truly had no idea what would happen opening this place years back. We continue to expand our offering and introduce new brands and artist as much as we can.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was a super shy kid. Close to my parents at all times and mumbled 100% of the time when I did talk. I was probably a demon at home, but from what I remember, I would say I was very kind and focused on the things that I did like. Soccer and surfing were two drivers in my early years, and they still are to this day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.atacamasurf.com
- Instagram: @atacamasurf
- Facebook: Atacama Surf Ship
- Yelp: Atacama Surf Shop
