John Crabbe, Jr. has lived in Vermont for most of his life. He has lived in Shelburne for a totally of 11 years and opened his own business, Vermont Tent Company, in 1976. Below is more information on his life, his business, and more.

Family: John is engaged to Manon O'Connor, and they have lived together in Shelburne for the past five years. They plan to marry next year. Manon has a daughter, Alison, who recently graduated from UVM, lives in Burlington, and is beginning work on her master's degree. John has a son, John William, who lives on his father's property in Charlotte where he runs a sustainable farm.

Education and career: John grew up in Burlington, but moved to Chicago for four years where he attended high school. Upon graduating from high school, he moved directly back to the Burlington area, attended Champlain College, and received a degree in business. After college, John worked for various businesses and in catering for a bit. In 1976, he purchased his first tent and began Vermont Tent and Catering, which later became the Vermont Tent Company.

The company has grown to immense proportions since that time, and now employs 25 people year-round and over 100 employees in the summer months, the company's busiest time. Vermont Tent Company is so much more than simply tents. They rent out almost everything needed to host a large event or a small intimate gathering - from the cooking equipment for the caterer, to the fine glassware, dishes, and silverware. Vermont Tent Company was the supplier for Clinton's inauguration. Each year the company rents its services and supplies to more than 2,500 parties and events all over Vermont and New England. The company's busiest months are June, July, and August, and the schedule tapers off in October. John said he loves traveling to the different locations and beautiful sites. He also likes the camaraderie and teamwork involved with the job.

Non-profit work: Vermont Tent Company has been one of the underwriters for Evening Song, the Cancer Patient Support Program's largest fundraiser of the year. He also donates wine for the live auction from his personal wine cellar (he owns thousands of bottles of wine) as part of the evening of food (from Hen of the Wood) and wine. The item went for $15,000 last year. John also participates in an annual poker tournament that benefits the Make A Wish foundation.

Favorite food: French food, in particular foie gras

Hobbies: Playing golf around the state, especially at Vermont National and Basin Harbor, playing cards, and playing cribbage in a league

Favorite music: Jazz like Norah Jones and John Mayer

First Concert: Crosby, Stills, and Nash in Hartford, Conn.

Bucket list: "I have been very fortunate, and have no regrets, and not much left to do."