There are always risks involved in starting a business, but Patrick Wright took a major gamble by using his last paycheck from his former job to launch his local vehicle wrapping business.
Wright, the owner of Humble Wraps located at 106 Cedar Lane in Martinez, opened the business on Feb. 14, and he’s happy he decided to pursue his dreams. Wright chose the business name to remind himself where he came from and to stay humble.
Wrapping refers to covering a vehicle with a vinyl film, often with a different color or finish than its original paint. His customers can choose from a palette of more than 500 colors. He enjoys being able to express his creativity on his customers’ vehicles, which include not only cars but also boats, RVs, and jet skis.
Prior to starting Humble Wraps, Wright worked as a lead installer at White Tiger Graphics, which has since closed, for more than three years. That’s where he learned his trade.
Wright’s first job as a business owner was installing a color-changing wrap, which is one of the most challenging and expensive wraps. Prices vary depending on the type of wrap a customer wants, but they generally range from $2,000 to $10,000.
“I don’t want to be known for the most expensive wraps; I want to be known for the eye-catchers,” he said.
Wright believes in pushing the envelope and trying new techniques.
“If you never push the limits, you just plane,” he said.
Wright also enjoys working for himself and the flexibility that comes with it.
“I get to make all the decisions,” he said. “If I want to close early and go watch a ballgame with my son, I can do that.”
Most of Wright’s customers have been individuals, but he has done work for several local businesses, including Augusta Grass Masters and the Augusta National Golf Club. Humble Wraps worked on this year’s Masters Tournament vans.
Some customers have specific requests, while others tell him to use his creativity. So far, they have all been thrilled with his work. Some have hugged him or even cried.
Wright doesn’t want to compete with other businesses like his. If potential customers choose one of his competitors, he doesn’t try to talk them out of it.
“I’ll promote any shop; I want to see everyone eat,” Wright said. “There’s plenty of business for everyone.”
He also credits Vinyl Tyme located on Bobby Jones Expressway for providing all his lettering.
Wright said by taking a gamble, he’s found a career he loves that doesn’t feel like work. Wright advises others considering launching a business to go for it.
“Don’t hold back; I made a life-changing move,” he said.
Humble Wraps is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the business’s Facebook page or call 706-951-5361.
