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

Hi Andrew, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business has been perusing passion and creating solutions. For my EPIC venture it was the absence of a dedicated appeal brand that caters to the alternative outdoor enthusiasts. I’ve been mountain biking for many years and struggle to find T-shirt designs that represent my sport. I understand there’s logo tee’s I could purchase of my favorite biking brand, but few appeal brands dedicated to these outdoor communities. Living in California my entire life there’s been plenty of surf brands, but I think there’s a need for creative designs that represent the rest of us, designs we can wear to let people know who we are and what we’re about!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My professional life has been a maze of creative endeavors. I started as a Graphic Designer for multiple ad agencies in Orange County, then took a position as an Art Director for a mid size engineering company.

In 2008, that position was eliminated due to the Great Recession, I then turned to creative freelancing which led me to multiple opportunities. The greatest opportunity was to be apart of the creative efforts at Tapatio Hot Sauce for the past 10 years. Last year I was asked to design their 50th Anniversary logo which was an absolute honor.

Presently, You’ll find me teaching design in the classroom, pursuing creative endeavors and partnering up with like minded creatives on design projects.

My passion and thirst for excellent design has always been my motivation. It’s truly a blessing to love what you do!

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.
I love the local brewery’s and outdoor dining spots that are bustling with people. Anaheim packing district is a great spot, plenty of dining options, homemade deserts and craft cocktails! What could be better

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes, my Shout Out goes to family and friends that have supported, encouraged and believed in all my bold ventures and ideas. Thank you!!

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.