SAN ANTONIO -- One of the few firework stands you'll find in San Antonio is called Mr. W Fireworks.
- Mr. W Fireworks a family business for decades
- Only opens a few times a year
- Currently about 300 stands and 150 indoor stores
Mr. W is actually a real person from San Antonio.
"Well originally it was my grandfather. He started the business, so my maiden name is Wildman," said Kelley Martinez, vice president of Mr. W Fireworks. "That's all I've known is fireworks. I grew up doing fireworks. I even ran firework stands but I grew up with him at the office - just everything with him."
Sadly, 20 years ago her grandfather passed away. Now, her father, Wayne, is Mr. W.
"He's the hardest worker ever," said Martinez. "So he's a great role model."
Even though they're only open a couple times a year, they work year round to keep the shop running.
"Just seeing us grow, seeing what he worked so hard for, what my parents are working so hard for and watching it grow, that really means a lot," said Martinez. "Hopefully our kids do the same. See how hard we work for it and continue with it. They will be the fourth generation, my husband and I being the third."
It's truly a family business.
The couple also brings their three children to the office as well.
"I usually color, eat food and hang out," said Kensley Martinez, Kelley's oldest daughter.
The business started in 1966 with just a couple of stands around San Antonio. Today there are about 300 stands and 150 indoor stores.
"We believe that we've been blessed a lot and that we give back," said Kelley Martinez. "We believe that God had a huge part in this business and how much we've grown so we try to give back and work with Christian organizations."
Keeping the spark alive from one generation to the next.
