By the FL Innovation News editorial team · Entrepreneurship
What started as a vision to bring a higher level of luxury to Tampa quickly turned into a growing business for Jessica Wentworth and Marlon Wentworth. The husband and wife duo are the co-founders of Energetic Exotics, a Tampa-based exotic car rental and chauffeur service that has grown into a brand centered on access, lifestyle, and curated experiences. When they launched the company in 2019, Tampa did not have the same presence of exotic car culture as cities like Miami, which gave them a clear opening to build something new from the ground up.
The Wentworths began with a simple, but bold approach, investing their own savings into their first vehicle and focusing on creating a strong client experience from day one. Rather than treating the business as a standard rental service, they focused on how each interaction could feel elevated and personal.
“From the beginning, we were intentional about making every client feel like they were stepping into something special, not just renting a car but entering an experience that reflects their lifestyle,” said Jessica Wentworth, co-founder of Energetic Exotics. This attention to detail helped them build early momentum, allowing them to reinvest in their fleet and expand their offerings while maintaining a consistent brand identity. As demand grew, so did their reputation for delivering more than just access to luxury vehicles.
In recent years, Energetic Exotics has moved beyond transportation and into entertainment and culture. The brand now hosts events and experiences that bring together entrepreneurs, creatives, and tastemakers, using its vehicles as part of a broader atmosphere rather than the sole focus. These events have helped position the company as a connector within the local scene, creating spaces where business, nightlife, and culture intersect in a way that feels distinct to Tampa. “We saw an opportunity to create something bigger than cars, something that brings people together and builds real connections within the city,” said Marlon Wentworth, co-founder of Energetic Exotics.
Even as the company continues to grow, the Wentworths have remained committed to community engagement. From local events to initiatives that support families and students, they have made it a priority to stay connected to the city that supported their early growth. This balance between aspiration and community presence has helped define the brand and build trust with a wide range of clients.
As Tampa continues to evolve, Energetic Exotics reflects a broader shift in how luxury is experienced in the region. What began as a single vehicle has grown into a business that blends service, experience, and culture. For Jessica and Marlon Wentworth, the focus has never been just on cars, but on creating moments that resonate and building a brand that grows alongside the city.
