Today we’d like to introduce you to Antonio Lopez.
Hi Antonio, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I got my start in the painting industry back in 2002 in Chicago, where I joined the union and worked for a company called Kenny Manta for a few years. During that time, I learned the fundamentals of the trade and gained hands-on experience in a variety of environments. When I learned the company also had operations in Orlando, Florida, I made the decision to transfer from the Illinois division. I wanted to be closer to family, and I also saw it as an opportunity for career growth and advancement.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on several well-known projects, including areas at Walt Disney World, Blizzard Beach, and the US One Power Plant, among others. Those experiences helped shape my skills across industrial, commercial, and large-scale environments.
On a more personal level, painting has always been more than just a job for me — it’s been a true passion. From early on, I had a vision of one day building a family-owned company that I could eventually pass down to my son and my brother. As my experience expanded into residential and commercial work, I discovered what I love most: transforming a space and helping turn a house into a home that feels warm, comfortable, and family-oriented.
In 2019, I was grateful to turn that vision into reality by launching my own business, Strong Finish Custom Painters LLC, a family-owned company built on pride, quality, and strong relationships. Since the beginning, our growth has been fueled almost entirely by word of mouth, which I consider one of the greatest compliments to the work we do and the trust we build with our clients.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Relocating from Chicago to Orlando came with its challenges. When I made the move, I took a significant pay cut, which was a major adjustment for my family. At the time, it felt like a financial setback as we worked to adapt to the cost of living in Florida while maintaining stability at home.
As I transitioned into the local market, I worked for several residential and commercial painting companies. It quickly became clear that wages in those sectors were much lower than what I had experienced before. That period taught me a lot — not just about the industry, but about the importance of long-term stability and control over your own future.
Over the years, I came to understand that painting can be a rewarding career, but it can also be unpredictable if you’re relying solely on hourly work. That realization shifted my mindset. I began to see that owning a business, while risky, could provide greater opportunity, security, and growth.
One of my biggest personal challenges was self-doubt. With only a seventh-grade education, I questioned whether I had the knowledge or capability to build a structured, successful company. But through experience, persistence, and a strong work ethic, I learned that education doesn’t only come from a classroom — it comes from discipline, learning in the field, surrounding yourself with the right people, and never giving up on your vision.
That journey changed my perspective completely. What once felt impossible became achievable, and it gave me the confidence to pursue building something not just for myself, but for my family’s future.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our work focuses on custom painting that goes beyond standard applications. We specialize in high-end finishes and detailed design elements for custom homes, luxury residential properties, retail spaces, and commercial projects. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with homeowners, builders, retailers, and companies such as Steven’s Kitchen & Bath, delivering finishes that elevate the overall look and feel of each space.
Our specialties include custom trim work, detailed wall finishes, epoxy coatings, and interior and exterior painting for residential homes, high-end properties, and commercial buildings. The goal is always the same — precision, durability, and a clean, high-quality finish that reflects true craftsmanship.
The name of my company, Strong Finish Custom Painters, represents exactly what we stand for. I’m known for “finishing strong,” making sure every project is completed with attention to detail and a level of quality that lasts. I take great pride not only in the final product, but also in providing excellent customer service, honest communication, and fair, competitive pricing.
What I’m most proud of is the transformation aspect of the work — taking something that may feel outdated, worn, or overlooked and turning it into something beautiful and refreshed. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a family’s reaction when their space comes to life and hearing their positive feedback afterward. That satisfaction is what drives me.
I also take pride in maintaining a consistent record of five-star reviews, which reflects the trust and relationships we’ve built with our clients.
What truly sets us apart is our people-first approach. I consider myself a people person, and I stay flexible and accessible to meet my clients’ needs whenever possible. Another point of pride is that our business has grown organically through word of mouth alone. Without paid marketing or outside advertising, we’ve been able to build a strong reputation and a steady stream of work based purely on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
For me, success isn’t just about completing projects — it’s about building lasting relationships and leaving every client confident that they chose the right company.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
My passion has always been to build a strong business that truly takes pride in its work. I want every job we finish to reflect the level of care and professionalism that our clients deserve.
What motivates me most is the opportunity to grow something meaningful — a business built on hard work, strong values, and a genuine commitment to doing things the right way. I believe when you take pride in your work and treat people well, success follows naturally.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share my story. It’s not something I’ve had the chance to do before, and it means a lot to be able to talk about the journey — the challenges, the growth, and the passion behind what I do. If my experience can inspire someone else in the trade to believe in their abilities, work hard, and pursue their vision, then sharing my story is even more rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.strongfinishcustompainters.com/
- Instagram: strongfinishcustompainters
Image Credits
Credit: Owner of Strong Finish Custom Painters LLC
