Courtney Felton, Veteran Owner/Operator

Detailing Express LLC

Detailing Express LLC is an exclusive mobile detailing company currently serving the greater Lake Nona area. They provide exterior auto detailing, interior cleaning, engine detailing, headlight restoration, in-home carpet cleaning, and pressure washing (just to name a few). What many don’t know is that the owner/operator is also enlisted in the Air Force Reserves. Currently stationed overseas, Courtney Felton was able to communicate with me via email for this interview.

I met Courtney at a networking event, and after our first conversation I quickly realized he is a different kind of entrepreneur. Courtney’s story is unique and one worth sharing.
He represents the valued traits our military personnel exhibit: discipline, resourcefulness, boldness, leadership, and accomplishment.
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NHN: Tell me about your military service.
CF: I am a Senior Airman in the world’s greatest Air Force, the U.S Air Force, and a proud Security Forces Defender. Patrick Air Force Base is my home station. I enlisted in 2014.

NHN: How do you manage and operate a successful business from overseas?
CF: I am blessed with an amazing team. They are very passionate and energetic. We have a rule that everyone has to make at least one client smile a day. Customer satisfaction is important since most of our business is by referrals. As for managing, we have bi-weekly meetings via video conferencing or communication by email.

NHN: What disciplines carry over from your military service to business ownership?
CF: The mission must go on. In other words, when times are tough, we must always push forward. Just like in the Air Force, I believe in empowering my team. Even as the lowest-ranking airman, you are trained to be a leader from day one. I am only as good as my team because they are the true measurement and reflection of my success. We strive for excellence in all we do!

NHN: What advice do you have for veterans wishing to embrace entrepreneurship?
CF: The military demands a lot from you, but at the same time it gives you everything you need to succeed. Follow your dream and don’t be afraid to fail! You will have your ups and downs, but it will be well worth it. Always remember it’s not what you do – it’s how you do it.

NHN: Any tips for the DIY car washers?
CF: As for as the weekend warriors that love to detail their own vehicles, I would say always remember to hand wax your car often. We live in Florida; it’s very important that you keep some type of protection on it. A wax does more than make it shine. I know it’s easy and cost effective to run your car to the car wash, but it could damage your car in the long run.

NHN: Any Final Thoughts?
CF: Opening Detailing Express six years ago was one of the best things I have done – it’s been an amazing experience that I do not take for granted. I would be remiss if I did not thank God for all the blessings and opportunities He has given to us.

I am very excited for everyone to see what we have in store for you in the near future. I can honestly say that I would not trade my list of clients for anything – because they all have shown me so much support year after year. So, thank you all.
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The community seems to echo this sentiment. In the words of customer Brad Houchen, “Great service is difficult to find in today’s business landscape. I’ve been a client of Detailing Express for over 4 years and without fail Courtney and his crew are head and shoulders above the rest. Where I especially value their service is with their communication and follow up.” Marc Hyzens states, “Detailing Express is very professional and always on time. We have been using their services for multiple years. The guys are very pleasant to work with and take great care of our cars!” And from customer Sarah M.,“The local owner, who is also currently serving in the military, even checks in from overseas to see if I am happy with services!”
Thank you for your service, Courtney!

Contact Info:
FB @DetailingExpressLLC
Instagram @detailingexpress
407-257-9600

Use the code “Nonahood 2018” for 10% off services