Tell us about how you got into skateboarding?
Ever since I was young, I have loved the skateboarding culture and lifestyle. I grew up around Mesa and Gilbert, Arizona in the late ’80s and early 90’s around skateboarding. I remember my parents buying me a Bart Simpson skateboard for Christmas. Skateboarding was popular in my neighborhood and school. Watching the cult classic skateboard movie KIDS first got me into the culture. I would skateboard just for fun, but some kids were pure die-hard skaters, who I always admired. The main reason I admire the skate culture is because of how inclusive it is. Anyone can get into the lifestyle no matter their religion, race, or gender.
How did you come up with the name Blu Brand?
I came up with the name ‘Blu Drive’ based on my own personality. Blue has always been my favorite color, and the ‘Drive’ of the name comes from my own drive for success in the industry.
Is it hard to build a team? What does it take to be part of your team?
I would say it can be. It is easy to find skateboarders that skate for fun, it is all of them! The more difficult part is finding skateboarders who feel the same way about the culture and lifestyle that I do. I would want my team to have the same level of drive and determination for success as me. You cannot be afraid of failing to be a part of the Blu Drive team – it takes sacrifice.
With the industry being flooded with new pros that we never heard of from smaller brands. What’s your opinion on that?
It is awesome! It is always great news when smaller businesses succeed in any industry. After all, you want a level playing field, and smaller brands landing these young professionals is great to see. I have to root for my fellow up-and-coming brands just as I want them to do for Blu Drive!
What makes Blu Brand different than other brands out there?
Blu Drive has a love and passion for skateboarding. We do not do it for the money. We do it to change the game, to stand out from the rest of the skateboard brands. Blu Drive takes pride in making top-quality skateboard decks and grip tape. Making sure our customers are happy and satisfied with our products is what we are all about.
Do you or do you have someone come up with the graffiti artists for Blu Brand?
I hire independent graffiti artists to design for my brand Blu Drive. It varies what artist I use. Graffiti artists that I hire need a good work ethic and must take pride in what they do.
Do you think it’s hard from being from Blu Brand to get your brand out there compare to some brands from Cali?
I do not think it is hard to get Blu Drive going out here in Florida. I feel like I can make it anywhere with my brand Blu Drive. If you have a solid team ready to bust ass, you can make some noise. The individual must put in the work and time just as they expect the rest of the team to do.
Let’s say: I’m a shop owner, you come to my shop & you want me to carry your brand. How would you get me to carry Blu Brand in my store?
I would not. Blu Drive has an online store and that is how it is going to stay. We are the online straight-to-consumer route. Selling skateboard products online is the new wave. That is how we are doing it. We do not do Brick and mortar. Blu Drive might do a pop-up shop and that is it. We are trying to stand out from the rest of the skateboard brands.
What is your day like?
I wake up at 5AM every morning. I check my emails on my phone for business. I read my goals from my vision board. I hop in the shower to wake myself up. I turn my laptop on and listen to yoga music. After that I might read a book. Then, I am headed out the door for my daily grind.
Thank you for talking with us & wish you the best of luck with Blu Brand. Is there anything you want to say to someone that wants to start their own brand?
If you want to start your own brand, just do it. Do not talk about it, be about it! You must have passion, dedication, and determination to start a successful brand. There will be roadblocks and setbacks, but you use them as fuel and motivation. Learn from your mistakes and be fearless. Have the heart to make your dreams and goals come true.
