Justin’s journey is one of resilience, ambition, and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that has shaped him into the successful business leader he is today. Born into challenging circumstances, Justin faced significant adversity early in life when he was placed into the foster care system at three years old. At the age of eight, he was adopted by a loving family that has since become his greatest support system. Although they differed in many ways, Justin always cherished his new family, recognizing them as his own.
Growing up, Justin often felt out of place and struggled to find his identity. However, it was in the company of friends that he discovered a sense of peace and belonging. His earliest childhood friend, Patrick, is now his business partner and co-founder of Magnif-A-Tent. Justin’s love for socializing and connecting with others became a vital part of his life, providing comfort and a sense of community. This passion for building relationships naturally led him to the events and hospitality industry, where he could create memorable experiences for others.
Even from a young age, Justin exhibited an entrepreneurial mindset, albeit unconsciously. In second grade, he faced consequences for his creativity due to his unique business venture—using scissors to shave his classmates’ pencils down to raw wood, which he then decorated and sold for 25 cents each.
With a restless and ambitious mind, Justin excelled in sports and appreciated school for its social opportunities. Although he easily passed his classes with minimal effort, he often felt that the traditional classroom setting did not fit his learning style. After high school, he attended community college while Patrick pursued a finance degree at Hofstra University. Both shared a vision of entrepreneurship from their various service industry jobs that provided insight into customer needs.
During his time in college, Justin and Patrick took a significant leap of faith. He and Patrick invested in their first tent rental package, which included tables and chairs, allowing them to start a side business while working summer jobs at a pool company. Committed to reinvesting every dollar they earned, they sought mentorship from an industry veteran with 25 years of experience. Since 2012, they prioritized their reputation and client satisfaction over immediate financial gain, focusing on growth and learning.
As Justin discovered his passion for helping people host memorable events, he realized that this career path perfectly aligned with his love for socializing and connecting with others. The joy he felt in facilitating gatherings and celebrations reinforced his sense of belonging. Since then, their business has achieved remarkable growth, becoming a household name on Long Island.
Five years ago, Justin met his wife, who embodies the qualities of an entrepreneur’s dream partner. Supportive and patient, she has stepped in as an administrative assistant to help manage their growing business while balancing her full-time job in healthcare administration. Together, they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, and Justin credits her unwavering support as a cornerstone of his success.
Through determination and a commitment to excellence, Justin has transformed his early struggles into a powerful narrative of success, driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. He continues to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit that has defined his life, committed to building a legacy that honors his journey and supports his community.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”-Unknown