Essence Surf was created in August of 2002 by Eugene Wahl Jr. AKA Surreal-G. Essence Surf's production rooms consist of one shaping room with two shaping racks, and one glassing room, and is located in Totowa, NJ (See Location) Since he was 16 Surreal-G desired to learn, and get involved in the surfboard construction industry. Eleven years later he dove in with very little knowledge on the process, materials, or tools used in the business. On a wing, a prayer, and a lot of money Surreal-G began shaping. His first board was a complete disaster, and is still kept in the shop to date to remind him how far he has come since then. But even the Frankenstein creation made Surreal-G realize this is something he would do the rest of his life.

"Being a surfer, there is no feeling like building your own board, and then riding it. Except for when random people tell you they like your board and you get to say "Thanks, I built it myself"(Surreal-G).

Although no Robert August by any stretch of the imagination, Surreal-G shaped over 500 boards and has honed his skills over the years. He now offers individuals the chance to do something that he was never able to do when he was younger. Shape their own board, and without having to go through thousands of dollars learning the basics. His shaping classes are designed to let people get a good enough back round for them to go do it themselves after.

"Of all the things I do from Board building to video production, the thing I get the most satisfaction from is seeing a customer's face glow as they see their board take shape and come to life. I get mixed feelings when they leave however. They are excited, and I am happy that they re excited, but sad that they have to go. You really build bonds with people after working with them for awhile. Especially if they love what they are doing" (Surreal-G).

Presently Essence Surf is spreading its wings. It has released 2 DVD's of local surfers in NJ spots called "Lo-Cals" volume 1 & 2. It will also be opening a second location in Wall Township NJ (Spring 2008) to bring the shaping closer to the beach.

"Like my Shaping School customers I am watching something grow from practically nothing, and I am in awe as to what it has become" (Surreal-G).