An Inspired Chat with carlos aceves I

We recently had the chance to connect with carlos aceves I and have shared our conversation below.

Hi carlos, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
For years, I had the tools, the talent, and the love for making cars shine like new. Automotive detailing was something I always enjoyed — a passion I practiced on weekends, for family, friends, and anyone who appreciated a spotless ride. But for me, it was never more than that — a skill, not a business.

Then came my son, Carlos Garcia Aceves II.

At just 19 years old, he saw something I didn’t. He saw potential — not just in the work, but in the name, the reputation, and the community we had built over time. Where I saw a side job, he saw a brand. Where I saw a bucket and a buffer, he saw opportunity and growth.

Carlos took what I taught him and ran with it. He modernized the shop, built a professional image, introduced new detailing techniques, and turned our small operation into a full-time professional automotive detailing business. He created structure, consistency, and pride — transforming what was once a weekend hustle into a respected name in the detailing industry.

Now, when people come through our doors, they don’t just see a car wash — they see craftsmanship, dedication, and a father and son legacy that keeps evolving. I couldn’t be prouder of what he’s accomplished.

Carlos didn’t just take over my business — he took it to the next level.
And he’s only getting started.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Carlos Garcia Aceves I, and I’m the owner of an automotive restoration and detailing shop that I’ve been running for the past seven yearsnamed The Kandy and Chrome Garage. What started as a way to keep the bills paid has turned into a full-time passion and purpose.

I’ve spent 28 years working hands-on in every part of the process — from welding, painting, and autobody repair to custom fabrication and electrical work. I take pride in bringing vehicles back to life, whether it’s a full restoration or a small detail that makes a big difference.

What makes my brand unique is that it’s built on craftsmanship, honesty, and family. I’ve recently watched my son, Carlos Garcia Aceves II, take what I built and push it to the next level by turning our operation into a professional detailing and restoration business. Together, we’re blending old-school skill with new-school drive — keeping the art of automotive restoration alive while continuing to grow and evolve as a family-owned business.

We’re not just fixing cars; we’re building a legacy, one project at a time.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
The people who taught me the most about work are my family — starting with my father, Fernando Aceves. He introduced me to classic cars at an early age and taught me the value of doing things the right way, not the easy way. Working side by side with him on a 1959 Impala Convertible was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. That project wasn’t just about building a car — it was about learning patience, precision, and pride in craftsmanship.

I also owe a lot to my uncle, Armando Aceves, who taught me the fundamentals of autobody and painting when I was still young. Those lessons became the foundation for the work I do today.

And when it comes to creativity, that comes straight from my late mother, Dalia “Dolly” Garcia. She taught me how to paint, draw, and see the world through an artistic lens — lessons that still guide how I approach every restoration and custom job.

Everything I’ve built today is a reflection of what they instilled in me: hard work, skill, creativity, and pride in what you do.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain and started using it as power around the time I realized that it wasn’t going away — it was part of who I am. Back in 2000, I was diagnosed with a lifelong artery disease called Lymphedema in my right leg. It’s a condition that causes constant pain, 24 hours a day.

Not many people know about it — only my close friends and family. Most people just see me working hard, always on my feet, but they don’t realize I’m doing it while fighting through pain. For a long time, I tried to hide it, not wanting sympathy or excuses. But over the years, I’ve learned to turn that pain into fuel.

Pain can either break you or build you — and I chose to let it shape me into the person I am today. It reminds me daily that strength isn’t about how much you can lift or how fast you can move — it’s about how much you can endure and still keep going.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
No, the public version of me isn’t the full picture. The public sees someone who looks successful — a person with big business connections, unlimited resources, and everything in place. But the reality is, I’m still working hard every single day to get to where I want to be.

The real me is humble, grounded, and still building. I don’t have unlimited funds or every opportunity handed to me — I’ve had to create them through effort, sacrifice, and persistence.

What people see on the outside is the result of years of work and vision, but behind that image is someone who’s still hungry, still learning, and still chasing the bigger goal.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Honestly, there’s nothing I would stop doing immediately. I try to live every day like it could be my last, making sure my family is safe, supported, and taken care of — whether that’s through guidance, advice, or providing for them financially, mentally, and physically.

I’ve lost a lot of family and close friends over the years, so I understand how fragile life can be. Any day could be my last, or it could be someone I love. That perspective makes it even more important to keep moving forward with my plans, my work, and my responsibilities. Life doesn’t wait, and neither do the people who depend on you.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kandyandchromeradio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kandyandchrome/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-garcia-aceves-90266059/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlosgarciaacevesofficial/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialCarlosGarciaAceves
• Soundcloud: oldschoolandoldies.com
• Other: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Fkandyandchrome%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf77EXngo_GqmvFuy_1TzGqackmTwE_rOEg3Eg1bqb3nNwHZfFPd0g8AMLtgA_aem_agvctjeeQwWgjA3gAi92JQ&e=AT2_RVahfV2dKMsK2d-DRPNEHJk3vE4BbQaHWHqk57m9iytfGSAbp3NiCZui41N_jVcDj9nrLJRK6PV5-vHuGqyHSi9DBHW4IJxCVYuvV2EozkYeAVhHy55bgA

Image Credits
Photo by Stephanie Twaite 2025 For music video produced by Carlos Garcia Aceves I and Carlos Garcia Aceves II