2024 Detail Operation of the Year: Sapphire Auto Spa

Congratulations to the winner of the 2023 Detail Operation of the Year Award, Sapphire Auto Spa! This award is presented to a detailing shop or mobile unit(s) that is nominated for maintaining an outstanding detailing business and living up to the ideals indicated in the IDA Code of Ethics. Sapphire Auto Spa is a fixed location in Alvarado, Texas, with a strong dedication to giving back to its community. Dan Belair Sr, CD, Owner of Sapphire Auto Spa, takes great pride in his work and provides strong attention to detail and outstanding customer service. We spoke with him to learn more about what this recognition means to him and his business. 

International Detailing Association (IDA): What does this accomplishment mean to you?
Dan Belair (DB): Winning this award was an unexpected honor I'm still trying to fully grasp. The moment we returned from MTE, we had to take a detour to the Tucson Gem Show for my wife's business. I finally had the chance to reflect on what this recognition means. Honestly, I'm humbled and incredibly grateful for the support and acknowledgment from the IDA and everyone who voted for us. Being considered for this award, especially when I think about the industry’s greats, is a privilege.

IDA: How long have you been in the industry? How did you get involved?
DB: I've been detailing cars since I was 15, starting with my first car, a 1987 Camaro IROC-Z. It began as a hobby, where I would detail cars for friends, family, and neighbors.

IDA: How did Sapphire Auto Spa get started? 
DB: Sapphire Auto Spa was born out of my desire for a side hustle that I genuinely enjoyed. It started in my garage, servicing the same circle of people, but as the business grew and life threw some unexpected challenges my way, I decided to move into a shop location. Over the last few years, Sapphire Auto Spa has sponsored the Dad Bod Car Wash with a local men's group, raising significant amounts of food for our local food bank—over 4,000 lbs last year alone. The name Sapphire Auto Spa is a tribute to my wife's mobile crystal store, Feather Moon Crystals. It reflects the toughness and beauty of our ceramic coatings, much like a sapphire.

IDA: What were some major obstacles that you and your business had to overcome?
DB: One of the major obstacles I faced was recovering from a stroke in February 2023, which forced me to step back from the business temporarily. Thankfully, with the help of a competitor, and community support, I was able to keep things running. This experience taught me the importance of solidarity in our industry and the strength of community support.

IDA: What would you say is key to your ongoing growth and success in this industry?
DB: The key to ongoing growth and success, I believe, is making your name known within your local community and doing everything possible to ensure client satisfaction. This approach has been central to my business philosophy.

IDA: Who inspires you most in this industry?
DB: I'm inspired by industry greats like Yvan Lacroix and Renny Doyle, CD-SV, RIT, as well as the young entrepreneurs fresh out of high school, daring to carve out their own paths. Their drive and determination remind me of the spirit of entrepreneurship that is so vital to our country.

IDA: What words of wisdom would you like to impart to your fellow detailers?
DB: To my fellow detailers and business owners, my advice is to persevere. We have a saying in the Army: "Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast." This applies perfectly to detailing; rushing through a job won't yield the best results. Develop a process, follow it, and continuously seek to improve it. Stay true to your craft, focus on your community, and remember that quality and dedication are the keys to success.

*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.