When I moved to the Cultus Lake/Chilliwack area, I talked to some local signwriters and heard this same tale. Locals won't PAY for quality work.

There are a few nice signs around. But the bulk of them are pretty ordinary. And the local signshops are similar to what can be found almost anywhere that I know of. Some franchises, a few independants. And one guy who still does EVERYTHING the OLD way.

All nice folks.

And here comes Dan. I learned lots right away. The first was that nobody knew me here. I didn't have a reputation and nobody knew my work. I would in effect would be starting over.

We started by doing our own project. (this would compare to the average sign guy doing their own building. My vehicles were lettered (thanks Donna) and had catchy graphics. Our project was different than anybody had ever seen. It gathered lots of interest. It even made the local paper a number of times.

As much as possible I did all my buying locally and paid my bills promptly. Good reputations in all respects are vital.

I always try to be upbeat in public. Folks remember this. If I can make others interaction with me pleasant and fun, even when doing business, it goes a long way to help me establish my reputation. Most people have much more to be happy about than sad. If you doubt this, watch the news one evening. Compared to people just about anywhere else in the world, we are pretty well off. And doing the job of our dreams is even better yet.

I decided that each job I touch will be world class. (I didn't say world record size except the sugar castle) I like to pour my heart and passion into every job I do. I am also very selective in the jobs I take on. This means there aren't very many jobs innitially, but soon it means I get to choose to tackle only the ones I want.

Amazingly, in less than six months, I already have a great business. (still lots of room for growth) I am doing the EXACT type of work I wanted, and am able to charge what I need and want - without argument.

Reputations are easy to get. Folks love to talk about others around them. What they say about you and your business is up to you. Good reputations must be earned. You can project what ever you want, but it must be done with purpose and planning.

You will be known tomorrow for what you are today.

You are right in your observation that I don't Do vinyl. I have nothing against vinyl, and even have it on my vehicles. I sub it out. It has it's place for sure in many applications. I did hand paint the graphics on my vehicles though. (Except the doors of my truck which were edge prints of artwork I created)

I do hand paint. I do monument signs and displays. This is the work I am interested in and it is also the work that most folks have trouble selling. I'm told that nobody will pay for it here....

The local guys have nothing to fear.... I won't take much away from them, as they can't seem to sell what I produce.

My point is that most folks don't see a local market for this high end work where I believe there is lots to be had and I prove it every day.

This is the nitch market I want and need for my own personal satisfaction. It's where I can have the most fun AND make a good living too!

I'll also take the design work quite happily and charge what it's worth too.