Today we’d like to introduce you to Francisco Javier Velazquez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The sign business was one of my first jobs during high school. Having over 24 years experience I still haven’t stopped learning. After high school, I went to college but found myself rapidly enjoying my interest in graphic designing. I like learning things on my own. From the advance graphics programs and large format machines to make signs, learning how to run, configure and repair them has kept me going.
After working from small mom-&-pop shops to large franchise sign companies, 5 years ago I took a leap of faith. I saved up enough to do it on my own. It’s been difficult, stressful and at times overwhelming. But yet to feel any type of regret.
I run Market Signs with my partner, also my wife: Sonia Gonzalez. We have faced many challenges in life and even more when you share a business. But having a good partner is a world of difference. Like a gym partner, they encourage you when you need it most, and can share the victories when progress is made.
Unfortunately, we are currently having some complicated and stressful issues. Our shop was severely hit by hurricane Harvey. Due to the negligence of maintenance of our roof from our landlords we lost expensive equipment making it hard to recover. We lost months battling the insurance companies to find out they won’t cover us. We had to close our shop down, with 4 months unable to make sales creates a huge problem.
But we are not giving up yet. We gathered what we have left and pushing our credit cards to the limit, we have found a new location we hope to move in very quickly. There are too many things I could go into detail about.
As far as our struggle these past few months have been, with the insurances, landlord, our customers walking away, watching your landlord help move in another sign shop at your location you were just kicked out of. Having proof and videos of there lack of maintenance that has caused us so much stress and income loss.
But on the brighter side, we have to be optimistic. We didn’t come this far, to give up. There is nothing easy about running your own business. There are no shortcuts or guarantees in any way. We are a family of 8, yes we have 6 kids, and I feel we should set the example that you don’t give up even when you lose it all.
We are never grateful for the things we expect.
Has it been a smooth road?
Hurrican Havey has been the Genesis of our problems.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Market Signs & Graphics – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Yes, we are a sign shop but what we also specialize in is Marketing. Image is everything and educating your customers that having a professional image will set you apart from your competition. We do everything from the website, vehicle wraps to business cards and promotional items.
But again above it, all your design is what’s most important.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Raised in DFW for most of my life, I moved to Houston 10 years ago. It’s offered many great opportunities and has pushed my dedication even higher.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1403 Federal Rd. Houston, TX 77015
- Website: www.marketstreetsigns.com
- Phone: 832-804-6715
- Email: info@marketstreetsigns.com
- Facebook: market street signs
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