Lifestyle

The Teenage Entrepreneur That Took The Luxury Car Scene By Storm: Meet Durim Zuta!

Published

3 years ago

November 2, 2021

Durim Zuta is anything but your average 18-year-old in New York City. In fact, he’s the owner of a self-made luxury car service that is conquering the Tri-State area of New York City. The business is named Tristate Luxury Rentals– and it also doubles as a vehicle customization shop. In just under four years, Zuta has made a name for himself in a shark-filled industry that usually requires dozens of years of experience.

Zuta grew up being a car-lover. At age 14, Zuta was already taking his father’s Rolls Royce to local car shows in the city, hoping to see some of his bucket list dream cars on display. At these shops, he connected with a number of automobile entrepreneurs– most of which became a source of networking for teenage Zuta. Seeing as he was thoroughly interested in cars at such a young age, they all offered him the same piece of advice: learn the ropes, keep a good head on your shoulders, and find the business potential within your adoration of cars. “‘There’s plenty of money to be made in the world of cars’, is what they’d tell me,” Zuta mentioned while talking about his experience at the shows in the city. “I started learning about the business and immediately knew it was what I wanted to do,” he says. Not long afterward, he was using his network of car collectors and serving as a broker for a small set of established clients. Four years later, Zuta purchased his first Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, and Tristate Luxury Rentals became a reality.

Currently, the business has a “Fleet” of nearly a dozen luxury cars. For about $1,400 a day, you can drive the same Lamborghini that started the business, or any of the other cars in The Fleet, subject to availability and price ranging. In addition, the business offers a 24-hour chauffeur service to those who are interested in riding in style, but would rather take a back seat in the experience.

In just a few years of service, Tristate Luxury Rentals has already provided services to a long list of A-list celebrities and artists including French Montana, Ray J, Casanova, Lil Uzi Vert, Diddy, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, and dozens more. While the cars are a good asset for personal enjoyment or even a special occasion, most of his VIP clients use the cars as props for music production videos and television shows. In the future, Zuta hopes to grow his Fleet by purchasing a rare assortment of cars not often seen in the market and, in turn, cater exclusively to a smaller circle of high-end clients.

Tristate Luxury Rentals has a showroom located in North Jersey where The Fleet is on display for clients’ choosing. The vehicle customization shop is located on the rear side of the showroom and is open to the public. In the coming months, the business is scheduled to open another location in North Jersey. Zuta also plans to grow nationwide in the next few years.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the cars in The Fleet’s lineup:

Lamborghini Urus
Mclaren GT
Rolls Royce Dawn
Lamborghini Huracan Spyder
C8 Corvette
Rolls Royce Wraith
BMW M5 Comp
BMW M8 Comp

According to Zuta, we can expect that list to double by August 2022.

For more information on The Fleet, visit www.tristateluxuryrentals.com. For inquires regarding car availability and details on how to rent one of the showcased vehicles, contact @tristateluxuryrentals or @durim.zuta on Instagram.

Lifestyle

Kristien Surya Jewelry: A New Standard in Affordable Luxury Jewelry

Published

24 hours ago

December 19, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo credit: Kristien Surya Jewelry

Byline: Sarah Kingston-Powell

Kristien Surya Jewelry combines cultural heritage with contemporary design from its Newport Beach headquarters. Launched in November 2023, the brand draws from Western, Indian, Chinese, and Islamic design elements. The signature pieces include the Hamsa hands collection with natural gemstones and the organically shaped Sunyata series, both crafted in sterling silver, solid 14K, and 18K gold.

“Each piece tells a story of cultural connection through carefully selected materials and meaningful symbolism,” says founder Kristien, who bootstrapped the company as its sole angel investor.

Social Impact Through Accessible Pricing

Despite its recent launch, the brand experienced significant early success, reflecting strong consumer interest. With global shipping and plans to expand its reach, Kristien Surya Jewelry is poised to attract an international audience that values culturally meaningful and socially responsible luxury.

While fine jewelry typically commands premium prices, Kristien Surya offers installment payment options and competitive pricing without compromising materials or craftsmanship.

A portion of sales supports the National Pediatric Cancer Association’s Sunshine Project, which develops non-toxic cancer treatments for children. Proceeds also help fund education and fair wage initiatives for women and children facing economic hardships.

Sustainability and Customization Focus

The brand’s ECO-LOVE Program incorporates lab-grown gems alongside natural stones, addressing growing consumer interest in sustainable luxury goods. Market research from McKinsey indicates that 73% of millennials are willing to spend more on sustainable brands.

“We select natural gemstones and crystals not just for aesthetics, but for their unique properties that promote emotional and spiritual well-being,” Sun explains. Customers can personalize their amulets by choosing specific gemstones, creating individual meaning for each piece.

Market Strategy and Growth

Currently serving North America through its e-commerce platform, Kristien Surya plans to expand to additional online marketplaces. “Our goal is more than about selling jewelry—we’re building a brand that celebrates diverse cultural heritage while making fine jewelry accessible to more people,” says Kristien. The company maintains a strong social media presence on Instagram and Facebook to engage with customers and showcase its cultural influences.

Kristien Surya Jewelry sets itself apart with its focus on cultural inspiration, sustainability, and social impact. Leveraging digital platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the brand aims to foster a vibrant online community. Special promotions, such as Blind Box Gifts for early followers, enhance its engagement strategy.

Design Philosophy and Production

Each collection draws inspiration from specific cultural elements: Western philosophical traditions, Indian spirituality, Chinese harmony concepts, and Islamic artistic patterns. The manufacturing process combines traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques to maintain quality while achieving competitive pricing.

The Hamsa hands collection features double gemstone settings—an innovation within its price category. Production standards match luxury specifications: all pieces undergo multiple quality control checks and come with authentication certificates.

Future Developments

Kristien Surya plans to introduce new collections quarterly while maintaining its core design philosophy. The company’s near-term objectives include expanding its online presence and developing additional customization options for customers.

The brand recently began developing partnerships with retail locations in major U.S. cities, though specific details remain private. Current data suggests strong market potential for culturally-inspired fine jewelry at accessible price points, particularly among millennial and Gen Z consumers who prioritize meaning and value in their purchases.