MARBLEHEAD — Rent The Classics has carved out a unique space in Marblehead, offering vintage cars that bring history and luxury to life on modern roads.
What began in 2019 as a single-car venture has grown into a sought-after business, known for its standout fleet and memorable experiences.
The company was founded by Marc Orloff with a 1957 Porsche Speedster at its center. Over time, that one car became a collection. In September 2025, ownership transitioned to Drew and Kristen Balunas, who have continued to build on that foundation while shaping the company’s next chapter.
“We purchased it from Marc… and now we’re up to six cars,” Drew said.
Today, the fleet includes a 1957 Porsche Speedster, a 1967 Mustang GT Convertible, a 1973 Ford Bronco, a 1975 Cadillac Eldorado, and a 1986 Rolls-Royce Corniche II. Additional vehicles are available for photoshoots, including a 1930 Ford Model A Roadster and a 1967 Pontiac Firebird.
Drew came to the business after years in the corporate world, choosing a different path that aligned with his lifelong interest in classic cars. That enthusiasm shows in how the business operates day to day.
“After you do a rental and you see how excited people are… that’s the best part,” he said.
Customers can rent the cars for a wide range of uses. Weddings remain the busiest part of the business, with bookings stretching across New England.
“We’ll probably do close to like 40 weddings this summer,” Drew said.
The most expensive car in the world at the time of its release at $126,000, the Rolls-Royce, is a frequent choice for ceremonies, while the Porsche Speedster and Mustang are also in high demand.
The company delivers vehicles to venues throughout the region, with Rent The Classics serving a 150-mile radius, including Cape Cod, Newport, and New Hampshire. Many rentals are tied to milestone events, but others come from people looking for a memorable weekend or a chance to revisit a car from their past.
“There aren’t that many companies out there that’ll let you drive them; that’s kind of a unique offering,” Drew said.
That access creates moments that stand out. Drew recalled one rental arranged as a birthday surprise.
“A woman rented a car for her husband’s 40th birthday party, and they spent the weekend with their three little girls, going into the North End and just doing cruises. She shared a video with me of him opening up the garage door, and his surprise and the expressions on his face were just like, he couldn’t believe it,” Drew said. “I think that part of it, just watching people actually enjoy the cars, is my favorite.”
The cars are also used for photoshoots, films, and corporate events.
“We’ve done a ton of photo shoots… engagement shoots, pregnancy shoots,” Drew said.
The visual appeal of the vehicles makes them a natural fit for creative projects.
One high-profile moment involved Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins, who drove a 1957 Porsche through Boston on his wedding day, heading to his reception at the Boston Public Library after marrying at Boston University. It is the type of occasion the company aims to be part of.
Interest in Rent The Classics continues to grow.
“I’d say it’s probably 70% through our website… and then word of mouth,” Kristen, who also manages the company’s social media and website, said, adding that social media also brings in new customers.
During the busy season, inquiries come in daily.
Drew said partnerships with wedding planners and photographers have been essential as well.
“I have a few really great relationships with different wedding photographers or wedding planners that will send me referrals and business,” he said.
Support from the local community has played a role as well.
“The community has been great… people have helped us store the cars,” Drew said.
The pair agreed that one of their favorite uses of the cars thus far has been driving the Lincoln in Salem’s Haunted Happenings parade.
Kristen said that the parade was a fitting experience with the Lincoln: “It was spooky because when the Lincoln was redone, there were three bullet holes in it, and we have no idea where those came from.”
Drew said that above all, he hopes people will “enjoy the ride (because) that’s really what it’s all about.”
Photo: Rent the Classics
