Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Prater.
Hi Jake, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In early 2020, when the world was grappling with uncertainty, I started looking for ways to generate some extra income. I was already immersed in the off-road scene, with a few Jeeps on my property. I began selling parts. The margins were surprising, and soon I was flipping cars—buying, fixing, and selling them right from the driveway. At that point, I was still working full-time as a technician, but I kept looking for that next opportunity.
I expanded to lift kits, truck accessories, and eventually remote starts. When buying remote starts from a supplier, my sales rep kept nudging me—“Try window tinting!” I resisted at first, but eventually I caved, bought some film, and started practicing. After some frustrating trial and error, I sought proper training from an experienced tinter—on the condition I stayed out of his market.
By late 2022, I was growing restless at my job. My wife encouraged me to take the leap, and in February 2023, I went full-time with my own business. What started in my garage—flipping cars, installing accessories—quickly became dominated by window tint. It took off, and by now, tinting covers automotive, residential, and commercial—from cars to tractors, homes to buildings.
Now, with a full shop in town, I’ve added spray-in bedliners and continue offering a one-stop shop for automotive enhancements. It’s been an incredible ride—one that’s allowed my wife to stay home and homeschool our kids. I’m thrilled with how far we’ve come—and I’m just getting started.
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?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. One of my first hurdles was fear—self-doubt about stepping into the unknown while having a family relying on me. I had a wife, a child, and one on the way—knowing the mortgage and bills were on my shoulders was daunting.
Another challenge was market seasonality. My first winter after going full-time was rough—cold weather, quiet phones. I had to lean heavily on flipping cars and salvage to get by. Being caught unprepared for seasonal dips was a big lesson.
And then there’s the economy. While it was an obstacle, I reframed it as a test. I figured—if I could succeed in one of the toughest economic climates, then as things improve, the only direction is up. It’s been a mindset that’s fueled my resilience.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We focus on automotive, residential, and commercial window tinting. We also offer automotive accessories and spray-in bedliners—though tint is our flagship. What sets us apart is a commitment to top-tier products and unmatched customer service. I won’t sell anything I wouldn’t use myself. This means we aren’t the cheapest—we’re about quality and trust. Word of mouth proves it; happy customers become our best marketing. What I’m most proud of is building this from nothing—when many doubted me. Today, I stand in a shop with my name on it, supporting my family and living a life I’m proud of.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is discipline. Early on, I reinvested every dollar, didn’t pay myself, and stayed focused on growth. Equally crucial was learning how to speak to people—shifting from a technician mindset to engaging with high-end clients. But above all, your network is your net worth. Surrounding yourself with driven, like-minded individuals is key. I’ve grown by learning from others, and when you’re in a room where everyone’s leveling up, you rise too.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jptintstudio.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/jptintstudio
