By Jon Show – The impact of back-to-back winter storms has hit many local businesses hard during an already slow time of year, and owners are asking Lake Norman residents for help.

The storms closed many restaurant doors for two straight weekends, compounding the effects of patrons participating in Dry January.

“We really just need people to get back to going out — meet a friend for a beer, try our kitchen,” said David Hamme of Lost Worlds Brewing. “It’s a challenging environment for breweries and restaurants, and we need our community.”

Numerous owners noted that expenses like utilities, rent, and salaries still must be paid. Closed doors also result in food loss due to spoilage.

“We have to consider all things when the weather shows up, and sometimes we have to make decisions like closing down, strictly to keep everyone safe, but we still have to pay the bills,” said Chris Boukedes, who owns multiple bars and restaurants including Boatyard Lake Norman.

The drop in sales over the last two weeks extends beyond restaurants, affecting any business that relies on foot traffic or bookings to stay open.

“It’s affected not only hospitality businesses but also retail and service businesses,” said Bill Russell, head of the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce. “For many, Saturdays are the busiest day of the week, and they’ve been forced to close the last two weekends.”

Far-reaching effects

Christina Murphy of CM Hair Design, said weather-related cancellations wiped out all but two days of bookings over the past two weeks.

“We only have so many hours available,” she said. “Even rebooking means lost revenue because it limits our ability to schedule new clients in the future.”

Many business owners have gotten creative to encourage residents to support local businesses this month.

Mike Smith of 4D Endurance estimates that 50% of his bookings were canceled over the last two weeks, and less than half of those have been rebooked.

“People have been cooped up inside so we’re reaching out and encouraging them to get in a workout or training session,” he said.

On Instagram, The Outpost gift shop created National Buy Yourself Something Cute From a Small Business Day.

“Think about small businesses as you begin getting out and about again,” said owner Amy Jolly. “Is there a way you can support your favorites this week? A birthday coming up and you need a gift? Skip Amazon. Need your caffeine fix? Stop in at your local coffee shop and say hi.”

At Torrence & Knox, which was closed for the NFL conference championship games during the ice storm, the restaurant is hoping the lure of a free drink will get people off their couches this Super Bowl Sunday, when they might have otherwise stayed home to watch the game.

The bar will buy the house a round of wine or beer anytime Patriots quarterback Drake Maye—a Lake Norman native—scores a rushing touchdown during the game.

Keeping it at home

Restaurant owners also pointed to the loss of income for servers, many of whom lost more than half of their monthly earnings over the past two weeks.

“If customers are so inclined to be a little more kind and gracious with your hospitality staff members, I know it would mean a lot to them,” said Andy Upchurch of Bin 110.

According to Capital One Shopping Research, when consumers shop locally, 68 cents of every dollar remains in the community.

“Local restaurants are more than places to eat and drink — they are employers, gathering spaces, and contributors to the character of our community,” said Mary Maiorino of Harp & Crown.

“When they struggle, the entire community feels it.”

Reporter’s note: Looking for suggestions for the businesses mentioned in this story? Lemon pepper dry rub wings at Boatyard. Smoked wings or pretzel at Lost Worlds. Chicken sliders at T&K. Any bourbon know to humankind at Bin. Duffer sandwich at Harp & Crown. Mike fixes anything that hurts or doesn’t work at 4D. At The Outpost they have cool coffee mugs and shirts and get the dedo de queso and coffee at Caffeto on the other side of the store. I can’t help you with anything CM Hair Design #bald.