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

Hi Fernando, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
To be honest it has taught me more than one lesson. I came into this with a squeegee on one hand and ink on the other but also a positive attitude and with big dreams. All together, the most important lesson to me has been perseverance, nothing comes easy but you just have to persevere.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I run and own a screen printing shop in South Gate, CA. I’ve always enjoyed painting, drawing and just art overall. When I came to this country I was lucky enough to meet someone working at a screenprinting shop, at that time I was in search of a job so I asked and they were kind enough to take me in. I immediately became fascinated with it. I learned fast and within a short time I was managing the shop. Essentially, my goal became to have my own shop, that way I would have the freedom to be more creative and allow me to meet with the clients and envision their art or design and bring it to form on any garment. The process was not easy at all, I had to use most of my savings for a location, tools, machinery, ink, furniture amongst other things. I have to admit, the first year was tough. But like I mention before, perseverance. I was not about to give up. This is a dream of mine and my family and I have put to much into it, I was not going to give up and I don’t intend to ever doing so. Covid clarified that for me. That too was hard, but defenitely was not going to let it stop me. So what I did is, I started making mask for local business which kept business running, thank goodness. I love my shop and love what I do. It’s a step my step process to get to a printed garment but it’s what makes it fun and exciting, not to mention the pleasure it brings to see satisfied clients.

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.
First place I’d take them is a restaurant in Costa Mesa called Vaca, I love Spanish food and this place has the best Spanish food. Their paella is amazing and ambiance is great too. I’d then take them all the way out to Big Sur, I enjoy good hikes specialty with a amazing scenery and Big Sur is so far my favorite. I prefer big trees and mountains over skyscrapers. Next, I’d take them to Tar and Roses out in Santa Monica. The food is amazing! Specifically their hanger steak. I’d also take them to Sandbox out in Cerritos. I’m a big time gamer and that place is a ton of fun. And Disneyland would be a must, but it has to be both parks. At least once I year I take my family, it’s become a like a tradition for us to go around the holidays. It’s always a blast.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family without a doubt. My wife Violet specially, she has always believed in me and has been my biggest support in all aspects of this journey. This was a huge step for me, when I decided to start my own business it was not easy. I had no idea on how to run one, but when you have your family to encourage you, It gives that you push you need. I’d like to also give a big shoutout to Steve Jobs, although his career and mine are parallel, he’s been huge inspiration. Dream big and work hard. The book is great too, I highly recommend it.

Website: www.westcoastlayout.com

Instagram: westcoastlayout

Yelp: west coast layout