The FresYes Interview: Golden Light Paddle

[TAG0]

Stand Up Paddle Boarding, or SUP, is a delightful water sport that brings immense joy to those who engage in it. Gliding atop the tranquil surface of the water, the sensation of freedom and serenity washes over paddlers. The rhythmic sound of each stroke, the gentle sway of the board beneath their feet, and the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before their eyes all contribute to a blissful experience.

That’s why, with the summer coming on, we’re so excited to bring you this Interview. We can all use a little cool, a little fun, and a whole lot of serenity, right?

learning how to row on your knees with Golden Light Paddle
Learning how to paddle on your knees with Golden Light Paddle

Hi Staci, tell us, who are you, where did you come from, and what do you do?

I’m Staci, owner of Golden Light Paddle, the central valley’s go-to for stand up paddle boarding! I was born in the Bay Area and moved around in my childhood from Reno to Las Vegas and lastly to Louisville, KY. My very large extended family is all from all from Fresno so I’ve been visiting here since I was a baby.

Kids love the water and they really love to Paddle board! Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
Kids love the water and they really love to Paddle board! Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

After having two children of my own, Franklin, 5 and Magnolia, 4, it was an easy decision for my husband and I to move “home” to Clovis to be closer to my family. I grew up spending summers at Dinkey Creek and Shaver Lake, it is a dream to relive all of those memories now with my own kids and create new ones with my family!

I was fortunate enough to be a stay at home mom until recently when my kids started school part time. I now have the opportunity to share my love of paddle boarding and yoga with our community. I lead paddle board experiences around the valley and also teach kids yoga classes and pop up yoga in the park!

Kids love to paddle board (Photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
Kids love to paddle board (Photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

Tell us about the business.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is a water activity where you stand on a long board and use a paddle to glide across the water. I like to describe it as surfing’s chill cousin!

I first started paddle boarding about 7 years ago and immediately fell in love. It combined my love for the outdoors, being near water plus it was pretty easy to learn. After my first experience, I left feeling empowered and couldn’t wait to get back on the water with my board.

Yoga Pose on the water with Golden Light Paddle
Yoga Pose on the water with Golden Light Paddle

I soon discovered you could do yoga on a paddle board! I’ve been practicing yoga for almost 20 years and completed my yoga teacher training in 2017. I turned my hobby into a passion to share SUP with others in the summer of 2022 by getting my certification in SUP instruction and SUP yoga.

“Namaste on the Water” beginning class with Golden Light Paddle at the lake

At Golden Light Paddle, you can choose a leisurely paddle around the lake or SUP yoga experience on the water. We provide a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with themselves, their community, and nature while trying something new and stepping out of their comfort zones.

This class is loving it! (photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
This class is loving it! (photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

Through our stand-up paddle boarding experiences, we aim to create a platform for people to explore the beauty of the central valley, foster a strong sense of community and togetherness, and empower individuals to embrace new adventures, feeling both connected and empowered on and off their board.

What do you do that makes you stand out?

We are dedicated to providing a seamless and convenient paddle boarding experience by selecting the best spots for our customers to explore. We go the extra mile by scouting out the most scenic and exciting locations, including exclusive spots that are reserved just for Golden Light Paddle! Our commitment to finding these hidden gems ensures that our customers have a truly unique and unforgettable paddle boarding experience. Fresno and the surrounding areas are full of beautiful waterways, there’s truly so much to explore!

Prepping for a class with Golden Light Paddle at the lake
Prepping for a class with Golden Light Paddle at the lake

We provide all of the necessary equipment for your adventure, including durable paddle boards, adjustable paddles, ankle leashes, flotation devices, and even a waterproof phone case for you to take out with you to capture all of the fun on the water.

What is it that most people DON’T know about your business?

Paddle boarding is easier than it looks, I promise! It’s such a fun and versatile activity that provides a full-body workout, has healing benefits, and a chance to connect with friends and your community. With the right instructions and proper equipment, it’s accessible to all ages and fitness levels.

Kids love the water and they really love to Paddle board! Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
Kids love the water and they really love to Paddle board! Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

Paddle boarding allows you to immerse yourself in nature, reducing stress and finding tranquility on the water.

Anything really cool coming up?

We have an exciting lineup of upcoming events and personalized experiences at Golden Light Paddle! With personalized one-on-one lessons or small group sessions available, we are here to guide you towards your paddle boarding goals.

SUP can also be very relaxing (Photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
SUP can also be very relaxing (Photo courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

Join us for our sunrise and sunset paddles, full moon outings, family paddle fun + game adventures, and special group experiences like our signature Luxe Bridal Experience for your bachelorette party. We offer a one-of-a-kind SUP yoga, floating meditations, and soothing sound baths all season long.

The serenity of a Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
The serenity of a Paddle Board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

A little hesitant to go out to the lakes for SUP yoga? We can bring floating yoga to you in the comfort of your own pool. This is such a cool experience, even better with a group!

SUP Practicing in a pool with Golden Light Paddle
SUP Practicing in a pool with Golden Light Paddle

Want to impress your friends with a totally unique and memorable event? We got you covered. We love to create unique, tailored events for you!

Heading out on a paddle board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
Heading out on a paddle board (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

Plus, stay tuned for our first-ever SUP camp out!

We’re so stoked to bring SUP to Fresno! Seriously, it’s such a unique experience that you’ve got to try. We’ve been having a blast exploring all the amazing lakes around the valley, and we can’t wait to share this adventure with you. It’s an honor to bring this excitement to our community and create unforgettable memories together.

Men love to SUP too! (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)
Men love to SUP too! (Photo Courtesy of Golden Light Paddle)

JUST FOR OUR FRESYES READERS:

There’s a $10 Discount for the upcoming Father’s Day Paddle! Contact Staci for details!

FIND GOLDEN LIGHT PADDLE

Website: https://www.goldenlightpaddle.com
Phone: (559) 628-2878
Email: goldenlightpaddle@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golden.light.paddle/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoldenLightPaddle/