Meet Brian Arnold | Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Arnold and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The idea of starting my own business came from a combination of practicality and passion. When I was younger, curb painting was a simple way to earn extra money with my cousin, but as I got older, I realized it filled a real need in the community. After moving to North Park, I noticed many homes and businesses lacked clear curb numbers, which not only affected deliveries but also safety services like first responders.

My thought process was simple: If there’s a need, and I can fulfill it while providing a high-quality service, why not turn it into something bigger? I also wanted to create something I could be proud of, something that gives back to the local community. I saw an opportunity to offer something practical but also to add a personal touch with custom designs, making curb addresses not just functional but a part of a home’s or business’s identity. That’s when I decided to take the leap and build San Diego Curb Painters.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I studied entrepreneurship in college, which gave me the foundation to pursue my passion for building businesses. Alongside running San Diego Curb Painters, I work full-time at a marketing agency, where I’ve learned invaluable skills that help me grow both professionally and in my business.

What sets us apart is our attention to detail and custom designs. I’m proud of how we’ve turned curb painting into something unique for the community. It wasn’t easy at first—marketing the business and managing growth were real challenges—but those obstacles taught me resilience. I’ve learned to adapt, stay consistent, and always prioritize quality.

My story is a testament to starting small but thinking big. From a summer job to a full-fledged business, my journey shows that even simple ideas can have a lasting impact with the right dedication.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Memory updated
Here’s a great response for the itinerary question:

If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of San Diego’s outdoor lifestyle. First, we’d head out for a camping trip to Anza Borrego Desert. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, with incredible desert landscapes, perfect for stargazing and exploring during the day.

Back in the city, I’d take them on a bike ride through some of my favorite neighborhoods—maybe starting in North Park and heading down to the Embarcadero for views of the bay. It’s a great way to see the city and take in the unique vibe of each area.

Of course, no trip to San Diego is complete without hitting the waves, so I’d take them for a surf session. Whether they’re a beginner or more experienced, we’d find the perfect spot along the coast.

San Diego has it all—desert, ocean, and city adventures, so I’d make sure my friend leaves with unforgettable memories of every aspect.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Memory updated
Absolutely, here’s a response that incorporates your inspirations:

When I think about the support and inspiration behind my journey, a few things come to mind. First, I have to give credit to the many entrepreneurs I’ve met or read about, who have paved the way and shared their stories. Watching them build businesses from the ground up gave me the courage to start my own. Their resilience and willingness to take risks taught me that entrepreneurship isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about persistence and adapting to challenges.

In terms of specific influences, books like The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau, The Lean Startup by Eric Ries, and Running Lean by Ash Maurya were incredibly impactful. They gave me a framework to think about how to start small, test ideas quickly, and build a business that grows based on real customer feedback. These resources shaped the way I approach my business, and I’m grateful for the guidance they provided when I was starting out.

Of course, I wouldn’t be here without the encouragement and support of my family, friends, and community. Their belief in my vision has been a huge motivator throughout this journey.

Website: https://www.sandiegocurbpainters.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegocurbpainters

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandiegocurbpainters

Image Credits
Credit: San Diego Curb Painters