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With over 30 years of combined experience, DeVaris Skanes and John Wright have opened their own business to help keep Andalusia’s vehicles looking shiny and new.

Skanes said he first found a passion for auto detailing during his adolescent years. “I first got into auto detailing when I was 16 years old. My mom bought my first car, and she was big on keeping it clean. Since then, I have become experienced in pretty much everything that is involved with detailing a vehicle.”

The first time he started working for others was in 2016.

“I started detailing cars as a business about five years ago. My friend Brett Holmes and Tony Holmes were my first customers. After I did their vehicles, they were happy customers and recommended me to a lot of people. For that, I really appreciate them putting my name out there,” he said.

The A-1 Auto Detailing storefront was launched in Andalusia this fall. “I came up with the name A-1 because it’s a catchphrase some people use when they want a job done above the expectations. At A-1, we go above and beyond to make sure we have a satisfied customer,” Skanes said. “We offer pretty much all services that are involved with detailing a vehicle.”

A-1 Supervisor Leonard Hamilton is an auto detailer who assists Skanes and Wright. Jamie Cooper also works part-time at the establishment.

Wright has a full-time job at Shaw Industries but has over 30 years of experience in the field of auto detailing. “I started detailing vehicles when I was in high school. My father taught me, and he is now 93 years old. I enjoy doing this and helping provide service to the community.”

Wright added that vehicles can be dropped off on location or picked up in the city limits or within 10 miles of Andalusia. “We will take care of the car or truck if you drop it off, but we are also willing to come to pick it up. Just let us know what is more convenient for you.”

“I enjoy seeing the happiness on my customers’ faces once I have detailed their cars. I am happy to help the people who just don’t have the time to do it. It makes me happy to have the opportunity of providing a service here for the people of Andalusia,” Skanes said.

He is originally from the Dozier area and went to Brantley High School. He chose the Andalusia area because he has lived here for over 10 years. “I have made a lot of friends in Andalusia. The support system has been great from the people I’ve met over the years.”

When he is not detailing vehicles, Skanes can be found serving as a firefighter with the City of Andalusia. In addition, he is a Straughn football assistant coach under the guidance of Ashley Kilcrease. He has three children: Jordyn Skanes, 13; Kelsie Horwath, 12; and Sabrey Skanes, 2.

A-1 Auto Detailing is located at 1019 East Three Notch Street in Andalusia and is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information call Skanes at 334-804-9183, Wright at 334-343-7979, or Hamilton at 251-654-7261.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported the business and really appreciate you all. If you’re in need of having your vehicle detailed or cleaned, come see us at A-1, where we will take care of you and your car,” Skanes said.