At Durants our team of party and event professionals are working behind the scenes preparing for your successful event. As you will read in the bios below, Durants is comprised of seasoned event professionals. For example, we have a former chef, three former caterers, two florists, four event planners, and several entrepreneurs. We work together to create an event that is sure to exceed your expectations.
Glenn was born and raised in New York’s Hudson Valley. The Lois family has owned and operated one of the largest rental store chains in the United States for over 30 years. Glenn acquired Durant’s in the early 1990s and has since led the company through five major expansions across multiple states. His goal is to provide clients with the highest-quality equipment and service at true value, while ensuring that Durant’s continues to grow and thrive for years to come.
Susan is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz and has worked with Durant’s for over a decade as Controller and CFO. Her professional background includes experience in public accounting, corporate, governmental, and nonprofit organizations. Susan enjoys being involved in every facet of the business and takes pride in supporting both the Durant’s team and its customers. She strongly believes in giving back to the community and currently serves as Vice President and Treasurer of Walden Reformed Church. Susan is also a past President and current board member of CRVI, a nonprofit serving Rockland, Orange, and Ulster counties, dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and helping them lead more independent, fulfilling lives.
Barbara serves as the general manager of Durants Events and brings over 30 years of experience in event planning and catering. During her 22 years as a manager at Durants, she plays a key role in growing the business through strategic leadership, exceptional client service, and long-standing community relationships. Her hands- on approach ensures clients feel supported throughout every phase of their event.
Bladi is the Manager of Durant’s Danbury location and has been a dedicated member of the Durant’s team since 1999, beginning his career as a warehouse worker. Through his strong work ethic and continual drive for advancement, he rose to become the Manager of our Tent Department, where his enthusiasm and leadership played a key role in its growth and expansion. Bladi has consistently honed his leadership skills, industry knowledge, and professionalism, delivering top-quality results for our customers. Known for his thoughtful, kind, and detail-oriented approach, he brings a friendly, reassuring presence that is appreciated by both clients and team members.
Stephanie has been a valued member of the team since 2001, bringing over two decades of experience, dedication, and deep knowledge of the party rental industry. Throughout the years, she has played an integral role in the company's growth and success, becoming a trusted resource for customers and coworkers alike.
Known for her reliability, attention to detail, and calm approach, Stephanie helps ensure every event runs smoothly from start to finish. Her long-standing commitment and hands-on expertise allow her to anticipate needs, solve problems efficiently, and deliver the high level of service our clients have come to expect.
Stephanie’s passion for her work and loyalty to the company truly set her apart. Her experience, professionalism, and genuine care make her an essential part of our team—and a familiar, friendly face our customers appreciate year after year.
Lynne joined the Durant’s team in 2016 and brings more than 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. She has worked extensively in both restaurants and hotels throughout New York, Texas, Delaware, and Connecticut. Lynne has gained valuable experience in both front- and back-of-house operations and is highly familiar with the inner workings of kitchens, waitstaff coordination, and large-scale event management for 300+ guests. At Durant’s, she brings this well-rounded background to every event, assisting clients and caterers alike to ensure occasions—from graduations to small weddings—are successful and seamless. She currently resides in the Hudson Valley with her family.
Shayna has been a valued member of the Durant’s team since 2013 and serves as one of our Senior Consultants. She takes great pride in bringing each client’s vision to life through a fresh, creative approach to event design. Combining her natural talent for customer service with her creativity, Shayna crafts meaningful experiences and lasting memories for her clients. She finds genuine fulfillment in seeing clients smile as their ideas become reality. Shayna is currently working toward her Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) certification, continuing her commitment to excellence in the event industry.
Callie has been with the Durant’s team since 2015 and has worked across multiple locations. She currently serves as the Sales Correspondent for our Danbury location. Before joining Durant’s, Callie gained over six years of experience in the hospitality industry. She is currently working toward her Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) certification, continuing her dedication to growth within the event industry.
Elizabeth was introduced to the event industry and joined the Durant’s team in 2019. After several years in food service, she sought opportunities to transition to daytime hours while continuing her career in hospitality. With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality field, Liz is known for her strong work ethic and dedication to excellent service. She is currently working toward her Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) certification to further her professional growth.
Colleen joined the Durant’s team in 2021. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where she earned a degree in Hospitality Management. She has gained valuable experience working in hotels and retail environments across California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Ohio. Colleen began synchronized swimming at just three years old, an experience that instilled in her a strong eye for detail and discipline. She is currently working toward her Certified Event Rental Professional (CERP) certification, continuing her commitment to excellence in the event industry.
Michele joined the Durants team in 2023, bringing with her over 25 years of experience as the owner and manager of a highly successful fresh Mexican restaurant, along with a strong background in retail management. With decades of hands-on organizational leadership and customer service expertise, Michele has always been dedicated to creating exceptional experiences. Her primary focus—now and always—is ensuring that every Durants customer feels supported, valued, and confident from start to finish.
