Bay-Valley Painting, Inc.

Jared Cuevas: Uncommon Expertise

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

ANTIOCH — As a second-generation painter, Jared Cuevas’ experience on both the contracting and supplier sides of his industry has culminated in an uncommon depth of expertise. “I started out working for my dad during summer breaks in high school and college,” he remembers. “After college, I worked for him full-time for about eight years until he retired in 2010. At that point, I went to work for Sherwin-Williams, and after that Kelly-Moore, which gave me experience on the supplier side of the industry. Eventually, I wanted to start painting in the field again, so I started my own business.”

Today, as owner of Bay-Valley Painting, Inc., Jared says his favorite part of his job is interacting with people. “I like meeting and talking to customers and helping them make their projects as cost-effective as possible. It feels really good to make a customer feel better about the way their house looks.”

A resident of Antioch, Jared spends his free time on a variety of active pastimes. “One of my main hobbies is going to the gym, although not everyone would call that a hobby,” he says. “I also like spending time with friends, barbecuing, going to concerts and traveling.”

In regard to his professional career, Jared offers some advice to homeowners. “When choosing a painting contractor, I advise being patient when making your decision,” he says. “When looking at estimates, it’s easy to be swayed by emotion or by a cheap price, but that isn’t a good way to make a decision. It’s better to look at your options and then take a day or two to think about them. This will help you make a well-considered choice.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Jared says he’d move to Austin, Texas. “I like it there—it’s a fun, laid-back city with a lot to do and see. They have a unique sense of culture and community, and it’s not as fast-paced as the Bay Area, which I like. I’ve always felt like it would be a good fit for me.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Sylvia’s Country Kitchen in Antioch. They serve a great breakfast.

Q: What kind of music do you like?
A: A little bit of everything, from the alternative rock I listened to in high school to ’80s and ’90s country.

Q: What’s your favorite TV show?
A: “Ray Donovan.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: London, England.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Cashews.