The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1242540
His initial foray into tent making blossomed into a new entity, Sperry Tents, that lured customers in with its unique and custom design. While early tents featured the signature Sperry sun logo, Steve quickly discovered adding colors, stars and stripes, company logos and pennant flags on every peak made his tents stand out from others. Steve's sons Matt and Tim eventually joined their father's business with Matt staying on to continue the work at Sperry Sails, and Tim stepping up to turn Sperry Tents into a separate rental entity. is further evolved into Sperry Fabric Architecture which now manufactures the tents. e rental business took off and Sperry Tents became well-known for finely made and beautifully designed tents. Today, approximately 50 privately owned and licensed Sperry Tent providers span the globe while manufacturing continues from a solar powered, post- and-beam barn in Marion, Massachusetts. Sperry Tents NJ is one of those licensed tent providers. e business was started by Eric Larkin and Tim Daugherty who were college friends at Rutgers. e two were looking to start a small business when, on a trip to Nantucket, they spotted a Sperry Tent. "ese were not available for rent in NJ yet. So, that gave us an idea….," Larkin said. e two proposed setting up a tent rental business in Belmar, New Jersey and many years later have turned an idea into a thriving business. "Our tents have a certain geometry to them that the competition has not yet duplicated. Sperry Tents have great lines. We offer a beautiful product, with a great level of service," Larkin said. Handmade, instead of mass produced is what brings the quality and uniqueness to each tent. e tents are custom made by crasmen who sew, press grommets and mill the locally sourced timber poles that are varnished for maximum shine. Logos and special designs can be incorporated into the pennant flags to reflect the whims of the hosts or happy couple. Tents can be done in an oval shape or round and come in a multitude of sizes. ere is even an arch available, providing the perfect setting for the bride and groom to take their vows. V U E N J . C O M 134