Today we’d like to introduce you to JV Antonio.
Hi JV , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My friends and I wanted to Create a place that combines the functionality of a shop with the camaraderie of a social club for car enthusiasts no matter the background. We wanted to build a true community hub, not just a garage. A true “Members only for Everyone” type of space.
Lounge/Common Area: A comfortable space with couches, a large TV for events.
“Car Talk” Nook: A dedicated area for whiteboarding ideas, design sketches, or just comparing parts catalogs.
Refreshments: Offer good company, soft drinks, and maybe even a casual snack bar. Consider having a designated grille area for weekend BBQs.
Events and Gatherings: Plan a regular schedule to bring people together:
Tech Talks/Workshops: Invite experts to lead classes on topics like engine tuning, welding, or vinyl wrapping.
Cruise-Ins: Host a weekly or monthly evening where members can show off their cars (finished or in-progress).
Game Nights: For non-wrenching fun.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Absolutely not. Being that this is my first ever business venture, there has been a lot of teaching moments. Having 2 partners has definitely been a blessing but, can also be tough when it comes to creative differences. Luckily, we have always managed to talk through all of em. We’re still learning. Business acumen isnt something I knew very much about but, luckily family, friends and loved ones have always been our biggest support system.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Think of us as a private shop with a public mission. We’ve taken the high-quality expertise and resources of a professional garage and aimed it squarely at helping our community.
1. The Financial Relief: Beating the Dealership Cost
The core of what we do is provide an honest, affordable alternative to expensive dealership service.
Cost-Effective Care: We know that a minor repair or routine maintenance shouldn’t bankrupt a family. We operate with a focus on efficiency and community pricing, allowing us to dramatically reduce the labor costs and part markups that you see at big chain shops or dealerships.
2. The Passionate Build: Turning Dreams into Drives
This is where the heart of our car-loving community comes in. We want to do more than just fix what’s broken—we want to help you build your dream car, whatever that dream may be.
Design and Inspiration: Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, our space is designed for collaborative building. You’ll be working alongside friends, our own team, and other like-minded members who share ideas and expertise.
Customization for Everyone: Upgrades, performance modifications, or full-blown restorations—if you can dream it for your vehicle, we’re here to help you design it, source the parts for it, and build it out. It’s about empowering you to have the vehicle you’ve always wanted, whether it’s a fully customized classic or just a reliable daily driver with a few personal touches.
With all of this, I most proud of the progress my partners and I have made. Were continuously learning from our mistakes to ensure we are better than the day before. There’s no better feeling than handing over a customers vehicle back to them and see the look on their faces.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice is, specially when it comes to starting a new business, just go for it. For years we wanted to get this started and we just didnt because we were afraid and we didnt know how to get started. Jump in! Get your feet wet. Stop waiting for the “perfect time”. Right now is the perfect time. Be genuine, do what you say youre gonna do, do right by your customers and believe in your brand.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @thepadone
- Youtube: UC3j5uFRDOtLrHBsyOBwimiQ
