Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Brown.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Browns was started by my dad, Danny Brown, in 1980. It was primarily a repair and restoration shop. I have been riding in and driving VWs most of my life. I joined my dad at the shop many years ago, learning about parts and doing body work. I lost my dad in 2024 and continue his legacy, though my primary focus is selling parts. I was devastated when I lost him, and wasn’t really sure what I was going to do with the shop moving forward. It took time for me figure that out. These cars mean so much more to me than basic transportation. The style, sounds and scent of oil with a hint of gas and old seat fibers mixed together make my heart race. I live and breathe Audi VW. Few things in life bring as much joy as driving. Keeping classic cars of any kind on the road requires love, dedication, knowledge and, of course, quality parts. I contemplated changing the focus from repair to parts, but was a bit apprehensive. The support of loved ones and mentors helped give me the boost to believe in myself and go for it. I am beyond fortunate to have learned so much from my dad and others. Each morning when I walk into my office, and say hello to my dad and light 2 sticks of incense, I am overcome with immeasurable peace and pride. To be able to do what I love for a community that loves me back is incredibly rewarding.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Losing my dad was extremely difficult for me, because we were very close. His physical absence was painful. It took time to accept and adapt.
Being in a predominantly male driven industry, I am occasionally met with opposition from those who don’t think a woman can assist them with their problems, or know which parts are required. Fortunately, such instances are few and far between. One older fella has become a friend as a result of finally listening to me and realizing I really did know what I was talking about. The $20 part I suggested initially resolved the issue after having spent way more money on parts that didn’t need to be replaced, only for the problem to persist. Check the Bentley manual before you spend an afternoon watching YouTube videos. I don’t always have the answers, but I am always honest.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My true joy is hunting for NOS and good used original parts. Things today are just not made to the same level of quality. I love providing people with the original items that they need. It feels good to know I’m helping to keep that classic on the road. I ship all over the world. Browns is the longest single family owned place of its kind in the Kansas City area. My dad had a stellar reputation of being extremely knowledgeable, but also kind and caring. I try to carry that on to the best of my ability each day. To many of us, these are not simply cars. They have become a part of us. They have names and quirks and personalities, just like us. They have stories and legacies of their own. It is imperative to me that I keep that vibe alive.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
What started as hard luck in transitioning to continuing the business without my dad turned into good luck, in that I was able to modify the structure to suit my skills. The support is overwhelmingly positive. I am beyond fortunate to be able to do what I love each day, and carry on the heritage.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: vanessabrownsvw
