This year marked a huge milestone for the OnlyDetailers journey — my first time setting up the legendary Houston Autorama with Championship Auto Shows. I’ve been to a lot of events across the country, but this one? This one hit different.
First Time in Houston — and the Southern Hospitality Was Real
Rolling into Houston for the very first time, I immediately understood why people rave about Texas hospitality. Everywhere you go, someone’s ready with a smile, a story, or a handshake. Whether I was talking detailing with show-car owners, meeting followers of the channel, or chatting with other vendors, the vibe was warm, genuine, and welcoming.
Houston didn’t just open its doors — it opened its arms.
Setting Up With Championship Auto Shows
Walking into the George R. Brown Convention Center as part of the Championship Auto Shows setup crew was a surreal moment. I’ve attended shows all my life, but being behind the scenes — laying carpet, positioning displays, prepping cars, helping stage the floor — gave me a whole new appreciation for the massive team effort it takes.
Seeing the venue come alive from an empty building into a full-blown automotive celebration was nothing short of amazing.
The Cars? Absolutely Next Level.
Texas does not play when it comes to car culture.
From pristine classics to wild customs, from muscle cars with stories deeper than the paint to modern builds with insane attention to detail — the Houston Autorama delivered. I met passionate owners from all over the state and beyond, each proud to share the history behind their ride.
Filming and photographing these machines under the lights made me feel right at home. This is what OnlyDetailers was built for: telling stories, celebrating craftsmanship, and shining a spotlight on the people who live the detailing lifestyle.
The Drive Back to Michigan… Nature Had Other Plans
Leaving Houston was bittersweet — and then it got interesting.
What was supposed to be a smooth drive back to Michigan quickly turned into a battle with weather across multiple states. Heavy rain, wind, fog — you name it, it showed up. It felt like Mother Nature was testing my dedication one mile at a time.
But just like most road stories in the detailing world, it makes the experience richer. Adventures like this are what make the memories even better. Besides, it’s not a real OnlyDetailers trip unless something crazy happens on the way home.
Final Thoughts
My first Houston Autorama was everything I hoped for — and then some.
A new city. New friends. New stories. And a deeper connection to the car-show world.
Championship Auto Shows showed me what true teamwork looks like. Houston showed me what real hospitality feels like. And the long drive home reminded me why we do all this in the first place: passion, people, and the thrill of the journey.
Already looking forward to next year.