2023 IDA Detail Supplier of the Year: Miami Luxe Detail Supply

Congratulations to the winner of the 2023 IDA Detail Supplier of the Year Award, Miami Luxe Detail Supply! This award is presented to a product or service supplier that has been nominated for making a significant contribution to the detailing industry. We spoke with William Lara, CD-SV, to learn more about what this recognition means to him and his team.

International Detailing Association (IDA): What does this accomplishment mean to you?
William Lara (WL): This award means everything. It allows me to show others that anything is possible if you focus and work hard toward your dreams. 

International Detailing Association (IDA): How long have you been in the industry? How did you get involved?
WL: I have been in the industry since 2015. This is all truly me living my dream. I got involved first because, as a young teen working local car washes, I had the passion for vehicles and had an entrepreneurial mind. 

IDA: How did Miami Luxe Detail Supply get started?
WL: I started my business as a detailer — Miami Luxe Detailing — which is what I wanted for years. I started because I felt I was meant to do more in life and was in a position where I wasn’t enjoying where I was working and who I was working for. So, throughout the years of attending industry events such as Mobile Tech and SEMA and building relationships, eventually, the opportunity came to start selling detailing products. It all started as a side gig to make extra money. I never thought I would be where I am today. Fast forward a few years, I decided to start Miami Luxe Detail Supply and transition into a full-time supplier. I felt it allowed me not just to make the same or more money but allowed me to help others in the industry and my community. 

IDA: What were some major obstacles that your business had to overcome?
WL: The main challenge I faced while transitioning from a detailer to a supplier was how to build the same credibility I had as a detailer. As easy as some think it is, it is not. There’s a different mindset when it comes to being a supplier. You are not just serving yourself and your customers, you are serving customers and the community nationwide. I saw myself in the business of serving others, trying to figure out ways I could bring this community together. That’s when I started hosting events like Detailers Donuts & Coffee and offering my personal experience as a detailer.

IDA: What would you say is the key to your ongoing growth and success in this industry?
WL: That’s very easy. I always focus on building relationships, not just with those in the industry, but my own customer base. Being more than just a supplier, but also a friend and mentor who truly cares of the success of everyone’s life and business is key. 

IDA: Who inspires you most in this industry?
WL: This is not an easy question. I have had so many help me and guide me. Each has inspired me massively in many different ways. The industry as a whole inspires me and the people in it. However, some key individuals have played a major role in my success and have inspired me: Bob Phillips, CD-SV, RIT, Renny Doyle, CD-SV, RIT, Mark Elliot, Justin Labato, CD-SV, RIT, Brian Crosby, CD-SV, WC, Keith Duplessie, CD-SV, WC, RIT, The Detail Mafia, Yuni and Carlos from Uber Detail, and so many more. 

IDA: What words of wisdom would you like to impart to your fellow detailers?
WL: Never give up, never forget why you started, and never stop educating yourself, not just in detailing but also in business aspects. Read books, get audiobooks, and most importantly, find the right mentor. God has a plan for you, and it isn’t over.

*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the IDA.