Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz aren’t just ski resorts. There’s an active community with a combination of French and English residents, all looking to make a living and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Many of the area’s first residents came here to ski, but realising they’d need something to keep them in Mutzig and fondue, they’ve developed innovative ways to make a living from the area’s increasing popularity. With a bright idea, a bit of luck and a huge amount of hard work, these people have turned their Alpine dreams into reality and their accounts make for some pretty inspirational reading!
Kyle Dickson – Leader of the Retro Revolution
“We originally set up Retro Rentals as a bit of a joke but ultimately we wanted to live the dream: work and make money in the Alps. We came across the idea of renting out retro onesies for fancy dress days on the slopes. Luckily, the local fl ea markets were full of 80s style onesies, though more recently we’ve had to turn to the internet to source new supplies. Although I have lived in four other ski resorts, I love Morzine for the sense of community. Everyone helps each other out, and the people who come here on holiday are brilliant. These days we’ve got thousands of onesies which I rent out for events all over the Alps. We even dressed the Made In Chelsea cast for the episode set in Verbier last year.
I love running a business for the independence it allows me but I reckon that’s also the worst bit about it. I have to boss myself around! My favourite thing is seeing the initial reaction when renters walk into a room full of colourful onesies; there’s a shocked silence and then complete bedlam as everyone gets down to a good rummage! I still manage to get a bit of time on the slopes every day as well, after all that’s why I set up the business. For the future? Big university groups, bigger better parties, maybe break the world record for the largest number of people dressed in onesies doing a ski conga – if one exists that is. Oh, and if I win the lottery I’ll set up the Retro Ski Lodge. The only thing I’m serious about is helping people have a good time!”
Kyle can be reached on his website (retro-rentals.eu) and on Facebook (/retrorental).
