When I tell people I have a scavenger hunt business, I either get a blank look of confusion or a "that must be so fun!" response. I have taught drama for the past 15 years or so, and I get the same look when I tell people about that line of work. Both endeavors have the same ingredients: creativity, problem-solving, socializing and building community. In a world where we can have a fairly successful and meaningful day without leaving our desks, phones or computers, I like leading activities that force us away from all of those things. I am the most introverted, computer-loving person out there, so in a way these businesses keep me connected.
I signed up for a scavenger hunt in Los Angeles over 10 years ago, and I had so much fun. We didn't come close to winning, but I loved the spirit of it. I loved discovering new parts of the city, laughing and arguing with my race partner, running around town, riding the metro & enjoying a beer after it was all over--talking to others about different challenges and clues along the way. I looked around and everyone else seemed to be having a good time, too. I've been into running races for so long, but this was something different. Instead of running past murals, monuments, and historical landmarks--we actually had to FIND these things and take photos of them.
After awhile, I started forcing my friends to complete scavenger hunts on my birthday. I realized after a few events that maybe I should give them a break & see if anyone else wanted or needed the service. Basically my business plan was, "Well, I love scavenger hunts so much, obviously other people will too!"
It is so much fun doing what I love. The hunts themselves are a blast, but there are two favorite moments I have during the process: exploring neighborhoods for clue locations and sitting at home brainstorming creative clues that will lead people to these locations.
My new goal is to create hunts in so many L.A. neighborhoods, that before long--I will have mapped out the entire county in clues. Hunts have taken me to Culver City, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Venice, Brentwood, Playa Vista, Beverly Hills, Huntington Beach, Torrance, Simi Valley, Encino, Mid-City, Hollywood, etc. These hunts are definitely my love letter to Southern California, and I can't wait to fill in more of the map this coming year.