The last time we checked in with Christian Rinaldi and Kyle Dulak, the Westport teenagers were running a thriving car detailing business.
They washed, polished exteriors, and scrubbed interiors (including steam cleaning, and shampooing carpets and seats, among many other services).
They used a foam cannon and pressure washer — not a hose — and earned raves from customers.
They still do all that — and much more. Since that story ran, they’ve gone into overdrive.
Christian Rinaldi (right) and Kyle Dulak, showing off their work. (Photo/Ryan Allen)
Christian — who founded CK Mobile Car Detailings — has upped their game by training with Steven Vitaliani of Fairfield’s Auto Spa. He has taken his mentor’s generous help to heart.
(Steven just wants to help young people, Christian says. And, he points out, the Auto Spa is on-site in Southport, while Christian and Kyle travel to customers’ homes.)
Christian and Kyle now offer 3 packages: Bronze, Diamond and F1 (click here for details).
Add-on options include engine bay, black trim and/or leather restoration, and paint correction.
The pair have an extensive checklist. They double-check every item, making sure nothing is missed.
“I’ve learned a lot of business skills by communicating with customers,” Christian says.
It shows. When he came to my condo — wearing his CK-branded shirt — he handed me his business card, clearly explained the process, and asked if I had any questions.
I know many Westport companies that could hire Christian to teach employees about customer service.
A customer recently asked, “Can you just make it look nice?”
Of course, Christian replied. But, he said, he and Kyle are committed to cleaning every crevice.
Christian works on the interior of my car …
Christian knows that his prices are higher than some car washes, which also offer detailing.
But, he says, he has invested thousands of dollars in equipment.
In addition, he notes, “they don’t maintain their materials.” He handwashes every thing — including buckets — with hot water and soap, every night. He uses a special detergent for his towels.
Christian refills all his chemicals regularly. He says he has learned a lot about math, working with dilutions.
He uses top-grade products for everything — and eco-friendly, safe cleaning solutions.
… and the exterior. When he was done, he got rid of all the soapy water.
Customers are delighted with CK’s services. “They really like and respect our work,” Christian says. “That means a lot.”
He and Kyle are hustling. They work hard for their money. They pour some of it back into their company. Materials are expensive, and Christian recently bought a large crate that keeps everything organized.
Some of Christian’s earnings may go toward his next business venture: his own wrapping and tinting shop.
But for now, it’s all detailing, all the time.
No job is too big, or too small. Every one gets the same professional attention, from very professional teenagers Christian Rinaldi and Kyle Dulak.
(Click here for the CK Car Mobile Car Detailings website. All bookings are done online.)
