The Strong AO Story
Strong as Oak is more than a brand, it’s a family legacy, a learning project, and a tribute to the strength that has carried the Encinas family through generations. This online storefront was created by Matt (me) and my son, Luke, as a foundation for teaching the fundamentals of business: creativity, entrepreneurship, finance, responsibility, and pride of ownership. Every product we design and every order we ship is part of a real, hands-on education that Luke will carry into the rest of his life. And as a bonus, we get to have fun creating unique gear to support our teammates, family, and Friends.
Our Brand Name, Strong as Oak, or Strong AO, comes from our family’s unofficial credo. Encinas is Spanish for holm oak, a tree known for its durability, deep roots, and long life. We chose 1848 as our “established” date to honor our heritage. After the Mexican–American War, the United States purchased former Mexican territories, including the region of Arizona, where our ancestors (who drove stagecoaches) worked, lived, and strived to make each generation better than the last. In that moment, the Encinas family became American citizens. It marked a new chapter, and over the generations, our family has continued to show strength, resilience, and fortitude, just like the oak tree that represents our name.
Everything we build here reflects that legacy: standing tall, staying rooted, and growing stronger with each generation. Welcome to Strong as Oak, where heritage meets hustle.
