Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Moran.
Hi Michael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started as Purple Star Graphics and rebranded to Purple Star Signs in 2022 as I grew into a full custom sign shop. I’ve made made wrong turns on the way. A year and a half ago I quit drinking, and that completely reset my life. It pushed me to focus on my health, my goals, and my purpose. That shift led me to create the DTC Bubble Man and step into a more community-driven role. Everything I’m doing now — from signs to community engagement — is about building something positive and meaningful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been smooth. Drinking and immaturity held me back from being the professional I needed to be. My first partner retired, my second partnership fell apart, so I had to rebuild everything myself. Getting sober changed everything — it gave me clarity and allowed me to take control of who I am, full ownership of the business and purpose. Since then, I’ve been completely focused, and that’s what pushed me forward.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a creative and a maker at heart. Through Purple Star Signs, I specialize in designing and producing custom signs, decals, banners, shirts, and visual pieces that help people and businesses stand out. What I’m really known for is taking someone’s idea — even if it’s rough — and turning it into something bold, clean, and eye-catching.
I handle everything from design to production, so every piece passes through my hands. That’s something I’m proud of — the craftsmanship, the attention to detail, and the consistency. My work has a strong visual style: high contrast, clean lines, and designs that read instantly from a distance.
What sets me apart is that I don’t approach this like a factory. I approach it like an artist. Every job is custom, every project gets my full focus, and I genuinely care about how it makes the customer feel. I’ve also created the Downtown Concord Bubble Man, which lets me blend art, community connection, and performance into something that brings people together.
I’m most proud of the impact — seeing my work all over town, watching businesses grow because their signage actually works, and becoming part of the visual identity of my community. It’s not just a job for me. It’s something I built from nothing, and it’s something I put my whole self into. I used to tell my partner that “We make people so happy”
What were you like growing up?
I grew up a middle child with two brothers. We moved a lot when we were young. We all played sports and my parents were active and supportive. They raised us right. Learned from moving and always being the new kid in town to make friends easily and I have kept a few over the years. I was the class clown with a brain. I got in a bunch of trouble mostly from boredom. I was and am the weird one. I embraced it long ago. I knew I wasn’t what people expected. Always had an interest in computers when they cam out. Being born in 1970, my whole lifetime is the story of technology. When Star Wars came out and Pac Man I found something.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.purplestarsigns.com
- Instagram: @the.michael.concord
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purplestarsigns
- Youtube: @purplestarsign
- Other: https://purplestarsigns.com/DTC/index.html
