For the Bryants, building boats is a family affair, which has had a very successful run.
Bryant Boats in Sweetwater celebrated its 19th anniversary and the start of its 20th year making boats with a cookout at lunchtime Thursday.

Founder Jim Bryant, his wife, Debbie, his son and company president, Joe, all pitched in to serve food to the company's 40 employees and numerous local dignitaries.
The last couple of years have been tough on the boating industry and Joe Bryant said Bryant Boats has not been immune to the slow economy.

However, he said the company's small size allows for flexibility competing in the powerboat market.
"We feel it coming back," the company president said of the powerboat market.
Bryant Boats prides itself on limited production of handcrafted boats.
The company is currently averaging building one boat a day.

Joe Bryant said Bryant Boats feels like all the employees are part of the extended Bryant family.
"We feel like we have the best employees in the world," he said. "We try to treat them well."
The Bryants say they enjoy being part of a small community and take pride in their location in the historic section of downtown Sweetwater.

A third generation of Bryants may one day become more involved in the company.
On his business card, Joe Bryant lists himself as Barbara's husband and Sam, Allie, Jake and Julia's dad.

To learn more about Bryant Boats, visit the company Web site at www.bryantboats.com.
tommy.millsaps@advocateanddemocrat. com | 337-7101