AM Custom Painting founder Antonio Martinez was originally raised working in his Dad’s painting business. Working with his Dad was inspiring, and Antonio was always learning about the custom painting trade. At a very young age, his Dad provided him with the initial entrepreneurial spark to own his own business, and his Dad also reinforced those aspirations. His Dad is his own boss, and Antonio had visualized myself in that role during his childhood. He recalled working with his Dad on the weekends, holidays, and vacations during his early years at school. He watched his Dad and thought, “How beneficial would it be if I had my own business, and became my own boss?” The belief in this ambition filled Antonio with excitement. He did everything he was empowered to do, all the while gaining knowledge and expertise in the craft. Much of this know-how was passed on directly from his Dad who, at the time, had already been working professionally in the trade for over two decades. His Dad is not only a great father, he was also the perfect mentor to help Antonio develop his talent while he walked forward on the path towards realizing his vision.
As soon as Antonio graduated high school, he went to work for another painting company, where he could further expand his proficiency within the area of complex finishing techniques. This move also offered him an opportunity to open more doors and increase the possibility for success, and move him closer to finally being a business owner. At the new company, Antonio followed the same work ethic that he had learned while working for his Dad for all of those years. This mindset served him well, and it helped him reach a new level of artistry and skill, while bringing him one step closer to his ultimate goal.
Within six months after graduating high school, Antonio decided it was finally time to go out on his own. His dream of becoming his own boss came true after he secured his first contract with a homeowner in Palmdale, California. The project encompassed an application of venetian plaster throughout the home, and it guaranteed Antonio and his team three months of work. It was exhilarating for him. But it was also a bit scary, because he was young, and he didn’t know when or where the next job would come from.
Today, Antonio is happy to say that, thanks to the leap of faith he took over two decades ago, AM Custom Painting is thriving beyond all of his expectations. The company has completed several hundred painting and finishing projects across all ends of the spectrum – from small projects, to major restorations, up to full scale projects within brand new construction and custom-built multimillion-dollar luxury homes. Antonio is truly grateful for the support and success that his company has had all of these years.
