Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Dmytrow.
Michael, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Sure! My story really started with a love for art, design, and cars. Back in the early 2000s, I was experimenting with custom graphics and small design projects for friends and local businesses. I was fascinated by how a simple design could completely transform a vehicle or space. That passion eventually grew into what became Surf City Graphics, which my wife April and I officially started in 2009.
In the beginning, it was just me working out of a small sign shop in HB, learning the ropes of vinyl, printing, and installation, mostly through trial and error. But things really started to take off once my wife, April, joined me on this journey and we started Surf City Graphics. She’s not just my wife but also my business partner, and truthfully, Surf City Graphics wouldn’t be where it is today without her. April brought organization, creativity, and a level of professionalism that helped turn what was once a one-man operation into a thriving business.
Over the years, we’ve grown Surf City Graphics into a full-service wrap and design company, specializing in vehicle wraps, wall and window graphics, and large-format branding for both businesses and individuals. We’ve had the opportunity to work on everything from local fleet branding to creative, high-profile custom projects.
What’s kept us going and growing all these years is our shared passion, commitment to quality, and the amazing people we’ve met along the way, our loyal clients, talented team, and supportive family. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m proud of what April and I have built together.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road. Like any small business, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. When April and I started Surf City Graphics, we didn’t have investors or a big team, just a lot of passion, long nights, and a commitment to learning as we went.
In the early days, we were doing everything ourselves ; designing, printing, installing, answering phones, and cleaning up at the end of the day. We made mistakes, learned from them, and kept pushing forward. The learning curve with materials, equipment, and the business side of things was steep. There were times when we were working seven days a week just to meet deadlines or keep the lights on.
Another big challenge was balancing growth with quality. As our reputation grew, we had to figure out how to scale without losing the personal touch and high standards that got us noticed in the first place. That’s where April’s organization, drive, and leadership made all the difference. She helped us build structure, streamline operations, and keep our team strong through the ups and downs.
Looking back, every challenge, whether it was technical, financial, or personal, taught us something valuable. It’s what shaped Surf City Graphics into what it is today: a family-run business built on persistence, teamwork, and pride in our craft.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Surf City Graphics, we specialize in custom design, printing, and installation of vehicle wraps, wall and window graphics, and large-format branding. We work with everything from personal cars and fleet vehicles to commercial storefronts, interior wall murals, and full-scale custom projects.
What we’re really known for is our attention to detail and the quality of our installations. Every wrap that leaves our shop represents our name, so we take a lot of pride in making sure it’s done right. Whether it’s a small logo job or a complete full-color change wrap, we treat every project with the same level of care.
I’m most proud of the reputation we’ve built over the past 16 years and the relationships we’ve made along the way. We’ve worked with incredible clients, from small business owners to well-known brands and many of them have become long-term partners and friends.
What truly sets us apart is that we’re family-owned and operated. April and I are hands-on with every part of the business, and our clients feel that. We don’t just wrap vehicles; we help people bring their vision to life. Our approach is personal, creative, and built on trust. That family atmosphere, combined with our passion for design and precision, is what makes Surf City Graphics stand out in this industry.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, April and I are focused on continuing to grow Surf City Graphics while staying true to the values that got us here. We are always exploring new ways to push creativity and technology, whether that means expanding our wall and window wrap division, introducing new materials and print capabilities, or offering more complete branding solutions for businesses.
After 16 amazing years, we have built something we are incredibly proud of. Our goal now is to make sure Surf City Graphics continues to thrive for many years to come, even beyond us. We are beginning to plan for the future transition of the company, eventually selling it to another entrepreneur or wrap business that shares our same passion, integrity, and commitment to quality. We want to ensure that whoever takes it over will care for it like we have, like our baby, and continue building on the legacy we have created together.
In the meantime, we are focused on strengthening our team, refining our systems, and maintaining the high standards that have earned us the trust of so many clients. We also want to stay active in our community and keep collaborating with local businesses, schools, and events, because that connection has always been a huge part of who we are.
For us, it is not just about growth, it is about sustainability, craftsmanship, and passing the torch the right way. Surf City Graphics has been such a big part of our lives, and we are excited to see it continue to grow and inspire creativity for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.surfcity-graphics.com
- Instagram: @surfcitygraphics
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/surfcitywraps?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Yelp: https://share.google/K59gAVs6mb1ArtfuX
- Other: https://share.google/h9MNQvXXZ3alP8TYB
