Spotlight on Local Veteran & Entrepreneur: Brian Szabo of Szabo Apparel Co.
The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce is proud to shine the spotlight on one of our own, Brian Szabo, U.S. Marine veteran, talented artist, and owner of Szabo Apparel Co., right here in Vermilion, Ohio.
Three years ago, the Vermilion Chamber proudly nominated Brian for recognition at the 14th Annual Northern Ohio Area Chambers of Commerce (NOACC) Bright Star Awards. Held at LaCentre Banquet Center in Westlake, this event honored standout leaders from 131 Chambers and more than 50,000 members across Northeast Ohio. Brian stood tall among them, a true “Bright Star” whose dedication and community spirit continue to shine just as brightly today.
A graduate of Vermilion High School, Brian has deep hometown roots that are evident in everything he does. He’s more than a small business owner, he’s a cornerstone of the Vermilion community and a dedicated Vermilion Chamber of Commerce Board Member. His creativity and generosity have left an unmistakable mark on our town. Over the years, Brian has designed countless festival logos and t-shirt artwork for the Chamber’s signature events, including the Festival of the Fish, Woollybear Festival, Third Thursday Music, Flowers & a Sunset, and the crowd-favorite Chocolate & Wine Walk. His designs perfectly capture the energy, color, and charm of Vermilion, turning local pride into wearable art.
What truly sets Brian apart is his giving spirit. He unselfishly donates his time and talent to support local fundraisers, nonprofits, and community events. Whether creating a special design for a cause, a loved one, or simply for fun, Brian pours heart and meaning into everything he creates. It’s not unusual to find him burning the midnight oil in his shop, making sure every request is handled with care, because everyone loves his one-of-a-kind artistry and personal touch.
One cause especially close to Brian’s heart is the Maxton W. Soviak Foundation, honoring Navy Corpsman Maxton “Max” Soviak, who gave his life on August 26, 2021, in Kabul, Afghanistan, during Operation Allies Refuge. Brian designed apparel to honor Max’s legacy, with proceeds donated to the Foundation to help veterans “Live Life to the MAX.”
Outside of his community work and business, Brian is an avid fan of Ohio sports, proudly cheering on The Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Guardians, and his true-to-the-core love, the Cleveland Browns. His shop features his own creative takes on these teams, as well as designs celebrating the Vermilion Sailors and other local favorites. Anyone who knows Brian knows he carries the pride and values of the Marine Corps in everything he does, dedication, integrity, and heart.
A few years ago, Brian’s creativity and dedication even caught the attention of regional media, he was featured on New Day Cleveland, where he shared his story, his art, and the passion behind Szabo Apparel Co.
And while we’re shining this well-deserved spotlight on him, it’s important to note that Brian is one of the most humble people you’ll ever meet. He never seeks recognition for what he does, everything he gives to the community comes straight from his heart. He’s genuine, kind, and quick to put others first. In fact, knowing Brian, he’d probably downplay all this attention with a modest grin and a shake of his head.
You can explore his meaningful designs at szaboapperal.com or stop by his shop at 5571 Liberty Avenue in Vermilion.
Brian’s NOACC Bright Star recognition may have been three years ago, but his light continues to shine brightly across Vermilion, through his creativity, generosity, humility, and steadfast community spirit.
Thank you, Brian, for all you do for the Chamber, for Vermilion, and for those who serve. Once a Bright Star, always a Bright Star!
