The Matthews name first entered the painting and decorating trade in the 1970s with Michael Matthews, whose dedication to quality workmanship laid the foundations for what would become a long-standing family tradition. Growing up around the trade, I joined the firm in 1994, beginning my own journey with a full Ames taping and painting apprenticeship.

Through years of hands-on experience and a strong work ethic, I gradually progressed to lead Ames taper and later company supervisor. Working closely with my father and alongside a wide range of skilled tradespeople allowed me to develop not only technical expertise, but also a deep understanding of how professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail impact the overall success of a project.

Following Michael’s retirement in 2022, I took the step into self-employment and launched Matthews Painters in February of that year. Starting from the ground up, I focused on steadily building a client base of my own in what is a highly competitive and demanding sector. Growth has been gradual, but consistent—driven by reputation rather than shortcuts.

Standing out in such a competitive industry hasn’t been easy, but by combining the traditional values learned during my apprenticeship with modern practices and insights gained from working alongside other trades, Matthews Painters has continued to move forward. A strong emphasis on punctuality, clear communication, and meticulous workmanship has proven to be the difference.

To improve the customer experience, we introduced an online booking system that allows potential clients to schedule estimate appointments at a time that suits them, reducing unnecessary back-and-forth calls or emails. Throughout each project, customers are kept informed of progress, workspaces are maintained clean and tidy, and every job is completed to a standard I would be happy to accept in my own home.

These principles—turning up on time, respecting the customer’s space, and delivering consistent, high-quality results—have helped establish Matthews Painters as a trusted and respected name in the local area.