Covid in California: Charlotte Gets a Car Wash and I bust out my Canon

March 18, 2021  •  Leave a Comment

I stopped to get Charlotte cleaned before a gig and ended up doing a spontaneous Covid in California shoot with one of the guys that takes care of my car...

If you live in the Sherman Oaks / San Fernando Valley area and need a car wash, an oil change, or a full detail job...look no further than Fashion Square Car Wash!

As soon as I turned 16 and began driving my 2004 Toyota Highlander, my dad treated me to an unlimited membership at FSCW, which meant that I was showing up to get "Lander" cleaned bi-weekly. Yes, that was the name of my first car and I always had to have his silver rims SHINY AF.

What's noteworthy about this local car wash is not just the quality of the work, but the lively and friendly demeanor you feel as soon as you drive into the parking lot. Family owned since 1964, the staff greet you with smiles and remember your name. They take care of you and make sure your ride is looking as fly as can be!


Fashion Square Car Wash is conveniently located just off the 101 at Woodman Avenue in Sherman Oaks. Turn South, and BOOM! Entrance is on the right.


Just like every other business in the beginning of the pandemic, Fashion Square Car Wash was forced to close for two months to stop the spread of Covid-19. They reopened as soon as they were allowed to, but they still were not hitting full capacity. On a good (normal) day, 800 cars roll in for some sort of service. However, due to Covid, business was cut to about 50%, with 400 coming in, which was significantly slow for the crew.

I rolled into the car wash before a photo shoot the other day, and was greeted by one of my favorites, Freddie Campos. He asked me what I was up to and I told him I was on my way to a photo shoot.


He proceeded to ask if I was the model. I chuckled and replied, "No, dude, I'm the photographer!"

Minutes later, Freddie was modeling for me, as my car went through the wash. I mean, look at his hoodie, mask, and hat! He's a natural!


Special shout out to Edwin (aka Chapin) for the hose special effect! It felt like I was in a movie.


See below for my interview with Freddie:

This stylish dude has been working at Fashion Square Car Wash for the past 5 years. See below for my interview with him on how Covid has effected both his personal and professional life.

RR: How has Covid-19 impacted you personally?

FC: The lockdown and social distance guidelines have become part of everyday life. The first few months were a complete daze with what the future holds, but now things are starting to look better and more promising.

RR: Did you or anyone you know get it?

FC: I personally came out positive; same with my mother, but we never had any significant symptoms and we quarantined until we came back negative. We made sure everyone around us got tested, too, and luckily they came back negative.


RR: What specifically changed your personal / professional life during this time? I.E. what daily routine did you have to adjust?

FC: Having to wear a mask. Luckily we have a good location at the car wash. Really blessed that it's well known...right off the 101 at Woodman Ave. Only a few car washes do full service, and we are one of the big ones in the valley. My hours were cut a bit, but I'm fortunate to still be working.


RR: Is there a story behind your mask?

FC: I like angels.


RR: What do you miss most about life before Covid-19?

FC: Going out with friends to eat and going to fun places.


RR: What has Covid-19 made you grateful for?

FC: Regular LA life. We have it good compared to other places.


RR: What has been the biggest challenge for you during this time?

FC: The pay cut...less hours because of less work.


RR: What are you most excited for when things return to “normal”?

FC: Going back to enjoying all the LA attractions.


Thank you, Freddie & Fashion Square Car Wash for always making your customers feel at ease and for taking care of our vehicles! We appreciate you!


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