Balancing Life, Family, and the Pursuit of Happiness
By Michelle Vasquez | Photography by David Teran
When you talk to Brian Strange, you can’t help but marvel at his balance between family, work, civic engagement, health and fitness, and musicianship and songwriting. While managing all these dimensions might seem exhausting, it’s just a typical day for Brian. Making memories for his family or his clients’ families is what Brian Strange does best.
Brian, the oldest of three siblings, is the President and CEO of Don Strange of Texas, an off-premise and event catering business founded by his grandparents. From a young age, Brian worked in the family business, learning his father’s philosophy of never turning down a request and always pushing the boundaries to create memorable moments for guests.
Given the intensity of the family business, Brian initially turned to golf for health and fitness. However, his wife Shanan encouraged him to find an activity that included their young family of three children. After some thought, Brian discovered a passion for songwriting and music.
Brian embraced this new hobby and formed a family band with his kids—Emily, Austin, and Jake. They traveled throughout Texas, playing at events and opening for other performers. Brian’s songwriting talent soon touched the hearts of family members, veterans, and other listeners.
One of Brian’s peak moments came in 2003 when he performed a song he wrote called “Coming Home.” The song honors the loved ones left behind when someone goes off to fight in a war. The song resonated deeply, earning him a standing ovation. Brian reflects that these family memories would never have been created if he had continued to play golf.
According to Brian, “Finding that balance between family, work, and hobbies has always been a lifelong mission. Once you’re in the hospitality business, the love of caring for people and making them feel happy and cared for becomes an internal motivation that’s just part of my DNA.”
Brian’s proudest moments include marrying his wife and the birth of his children. “Watching my kids grow up is a heartfelt, wonderful feeling. The fun part about our industry is that you get to see and do so much, but really, it’s about the basics of love, family, friends, and sharing experiences.”
Brian credits his immediate family and his work family for keeping him motivated. “Watching my kids grow up to be wonderful, responsible adults is fun. My daughter Emily is married and lives in Dallas. My oldest son, Austin, and his wife live in Lubbock, and Jake, who is 25, lives here in San Antonio.”
Working in a family business means that many of Brian’s colleagues feel like family, even if they’re not blood-related. “The cohesiveness, nurturing, and fun make family everything.”
Whether playing music gigs with his sons or watching a bald eagle in the New Mexico valley with his daughter, every moment counts for Brian. “When I write a tune that people clap or dance to, it’s an original thought and rhythm that I created, and that’s very rewarding.”
Brian is also deeply involved in the Rotary Club of San Antonio, where he is a past president and has served on the board. “Rotary is all about serving, and our motto is ‘service above self.’ We’ve helped the club raise money for the Diploma Plus program and supported organizations like the Alamo Trust. Our company considers itself an ambassador to San Antonio and Texas.”
With a business history dating back to 1952, Don Strange of Texas is now 72 years old and continues to grow. Brian emphasizes the importance of supporting non-profits and fostering community. “I love what I do, and I love my life. I’m proud of my business and community involvement and always strive to do more. In our industry, the sky’s the limit, and the possibilities are endless.”
