While some high school students spend their weekends relaxing or hanging out with friends, seniors Aden Atwell and Sam Calderone decided to use their time a little differently. The two students launched their own car detailing business, C&A Detailing, with the goal of earning money to help pay for college. What started as a simple idea quickly turned into a real business that requires planning, commitment and a lot of hard work.
The idea for the business became a reality in the summer of 2025. As Atwell explains, “Sam and I officially started C&A in the summer of 2025 and did our first job on August 15.” Like many new entrepreneurs, they had to figure out how to turn their idea into something that could actually make money. Car detailing became the focus of their business because it was something they both enjoyed and found satisfying to do.
“We chose car detailing specifically because we appreciate the result. It’s a very rewarding thing to put that time into the detail and see the after result,” Atwell said.
Despite their enthusiasm, the two did not start with any real experience. Instead, they had to teach themselves how to detail cars properly before offering their services to customers. That meant doing a lot of research and practicing before they ever charged someone for a job.
“We had no experience detailing before, and we had to do a lot of research before our first paid job. We practiced on a lot of family and friends’ cars to get it right,” Atwell explained.
Starting a business also required some financial commitment. Even a small service-based business needs tools, supplies and equipment. Atwell said they had to make an upfront investment to get everything they needed.
“Yes, we did have to invest upfront. Some of the equipment we use we already had, but there were many little things like detail brushes, pressure washer tips and chemicals that totaled to around a $270 investment.” said Atwell.
While learning the technical skills was important, the biggest challenge turned out to be something many businesses struggle with: finding customers. Advertising and outreach took time and experimentation as the pair tried different strategies to get their name out in the community.
“I’d say the hardest part of starting our business was client outreach. We tried many different methods such as organic marketing, word of mouth and door-to-door pitches.” said Atwell. “What’s been the most successful for us is word of mouth; client testimony drastically improves the image of C&A.”
For Atwell, the motivation behind the business goes beyond just making extra spending money. Saving for college played a big role in the decision to start working toward financial independence early.
“I decided to start saving for college in my junior year. I’m going to Westminster and the yearly cost is forty-two thousand, so with that, I figured I should start early so I can be comfortable throughout my college career.” Atwell said.
Even though running a detailing business has given him valuable experience, Atwell’s long-term career goals lie in a different field. His true passion is healthcare, and he plans to pursue a nursing degree when he begins college.
“Car detailing is something I enjoy doing on the side, but my passion is nursing. I’m gonna be studying for my bachelors in nursing science.”
Balancing school responsibilities with a business is not always easy. Between classes, homework, a part-time job and detailing appointments, time management has become one of their biggest challenges.
“It’s been very hard to find the balance. With school and schoolwork, a part-time job and running a business, we’ve had to find very specific times to do our details. We do our details on Saturday and Sunday, and over the summer our availability is a lot more flexible. We have very busy schedules but we’ve been able to adjust.” explained Atwell.
Despite the challenges, Atwell believes the experience of starting a business as a teenager is incredibly valuable. He encourages other students who may be interested in entrepreneurship to take the risk and try it for themselves.
“Don’t be scared to invest. You HAVE to lose money to make money. It’s scary when you work a part-time job; the investment you have to make might be your entire paycheck, but you have to bite the bullet. Your investment is almost always going to be worth it, and it’s the only way you can get up off the ground.” Atwell said.
Like any young entrepreneur, there are also lessons he wishes he had known from the beginning. One of the most important things he’s learned is that building relationships with customers is key to long-term success.
“One thing I wish I knew before I started investing was how to build a relationship with my clients. I’ve detailed plenty of cars but have had no returning customers. Building a client relationship is the most vital thing in a business, it’s how you get returning business.” Atwell said.
Looking back on the experience so far, Atwell believes entrepreneurship offers teens an opportunity to develop important skills that go far beyond making money.
“I absolutely believe more teens should consider entrepreneurship. Starting your own business is the best way to build connections, gain experience, and learn new skills. Entrepreneurship has taught me how to better manage money and about advertising and marketing.”
For Atwell and Calderone, C&A Detailing is more than just a weekend job. It is a learning experience that helps them prepare for the future, build real-world skills and take an important step toward paying for their college education.
