Sign Age

Our Story

The Optimist Printers has been a steadfast presence in the Columbia River Gorge for over a century, evolving from a humble weekly newspaper and job shop in 1906 to a comprehensive commercial printing facility. Founded by Addison Bennett, The Dalles Optimist, as it was known then, aimed to provide a voice for the community and offer printing services to its residents. The paper thrived, attracting subscribers eager for local news, and the job shop alongside prospered, meeting the printing needs of businesses and individuals alike.

While the newspaper aspect of the business evolved, changing hands and ultimately merging with another local publication, The Optimist Printers continued its proud tradition, serving generations of Gorge residents. Through four distinct ownership changes over the decades, one constant has remained: an unwavering commitment to quality, service, and customer satisfaction.

Today, Matt and Angie Herriges, longtime residents of The Dalles, carry the torch of The Optimist Printers. Having purchased the business in 2012, they have seamlessly blended their own experiences and passions with the rich history of the company. Matt, with three decades in the printing industry, oversees the day-to-day operations and utilizes his extensive knowledge to ensure every project meets the highest standards. Angie, meanwhile, manages customer service, apparel production, and the business's financial side, bringing a dedication to detail and a customer-focused approach.

Our Services

At The Optimist Printers, we believe printing is about more than just transferring ink to paper. It's about transforming ideas into tangible realities, crafting communications that capture attention, and delivering results that exceed expectations. Our comprehensive range of services includes:

Digital & Offset Printing: We harness the power of both digital and offset printing technologies to provide you with the perfect solution for your project, whether you need a small business card run or a large-scale marketing campaign. Our state-of-the-art equipment and expert team ensure vibrant colors, sharp details, and high-resolution printing every time.

Signs, Banners & Large Format Printing: Make your message stand out with eye-catching signs and banners designed and printed to perfection. We offer a wide variety of sizes, materials, and finishes to suit your needs, from eye-catching storefront signs to attention-grabbing banners for events and promotions. Let us help you create long-lasting impressions that drive results.

Vehicle & Window Graphics: Turn your vehicle into a mobile advertisement with custom vehicle wraps and window decals. Our team will work closely with you to design graphics that reflect your brand and capture the attention of potential customers wherever you go.

Graphic Design: Tell your story with compelling visuals. Our experienced graphic designers will work closely with you to develop creative designs that align with your brand identity and effectively communicate your message.

Custom Apparel: Make your team stand out with custom-designed apparel. From t-shirts and sweatshirts to polos and hats, we offer a wide range of apparel items to choose from and can customize them with your logo, design, or text.

Our Commitment

At The Optimist Printers, we believe that strong relationships are built on trust, communication, and a shared commitment to excellence. We take pride in our dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about what they do and committed to providing exceptional service to every customer.