About

Origin Story

Welcome was founded in 2010 by Jason Celaya, out of his home, with $2,000.00 on a credit card. Welcome started as a means of creating something different for a small group of friends - something that was non-conforming to what was popular at the time.

Unable to afford a professional artist, Jason began illustrating for Welcome out of necessity. Having no real experience with skateboard design many of the first graphics were drawn with a sharpie on the floor of his home. When it came to the shapes of the boards, he focused on creating a hybrid of the shapes of past generations while updating them with modern dimensions, molds, and functionality.

As the brand began gaining traction a team was assembled - comprised of a small group of friends he skated with. Many of those same people have gone on to become pro skaters on the team - like Nora Vasconcellos and Daniel Vargas - or integral parts of the company - like Creative Director Shane Cox. It is those people who have helped to push the company beyond the bounds from which it originated.

While the brand has expanded over the years, the team and community it's built contribute every day to our original mission to create a space that celebrates nonconformity, where all are Welcome. 

 Original illustrations by Jason, from the earliest days of the company.

 

Our Creed

Welcome is a brand built on the foundations of creativity, individuality, and nonconformity. It is a celebration of the unexpected, a nod to the power of juxtaposition and the beauty that can emerge from unlikely combinations. We are more than just a skateboarding brand - we are a community of individuals who believe in breaking boundaries and forging our own paths.

Our team is not made up of just the most technically skilled skateboarders, but rather individuals who inspire us and make us want to skate. We believe in fostering a sense of community and family, both within our team and with our fans and consumers.

We see skateboarding as an art form, and our products reflect that. From the design of our boards and apparel to the way we present ourselves as a brand, we strive to bring joy and inspiration to those who engage with us.

If these beliefs speak to you, you’re WELCOME.