You do not need to be an avid news-follower to know by now, that the Governor has just issued a second stay-at-home order last weekend, on December 7th. You also do not need to have a master’s degree in economics to know, that the all the Covid-19 related restrictions are devastating for small and family-owned businesses, especially in areas previously affected by fire-related closures and evacuations.

While lodging and dining establishments can stay open with modifications, business volume is directly and significantly impacted by the stay-at-home orders and limitations. Even though, outdoor mental breaks are encouraged within the state, we understand and respect that not everyone is comfortable or wants to get away during the pandemic.

The Pines Resort was able to adapt to all the guidelines this year and we are fortunate to be able to offer individual cabins, that limit social interactions and allow for social distancing. We are also lucky to have loyal and supportive patrons that are looking for ways to help us stay afloat. As a business, we are flexible to make sure we do our share in stopping the virus spread, but we have also made a decision to be creative, so we are able to stay afloat and make sure that we can provide for our employees and their families.

Here are 6 Ways that You can support The Pines Resort and/or any local business:

1. PLAN AHEAD

Even if you are not ready or able to travel right now, please consider making future plans. If you are a planner – that will give you something to look forward to and maybe take a break from the reality.

Booking in advance, you will be able to take advantage of the best rates and availability. The deposit we are able to collect at the time of booking (1st night stay) will help us bridge the cash-flow gap flow in those trying times. It will also give us … hope, that sometime soon things will go back to normal.  Also, there is no risk to you – if you decide to cancel later, your deposit will be fully refunded.

2. ORDER TAKE OUT

Even though indoor and outdoor dining remains closed, you do have a LOT of options to still be able to enjoy your favorite Ducey’s on the Lake meals. Not only can you take a break from cooking and doing dishes, but you can also remember this “covid-time” as a time, when you got to try new flavors, find your new favorite restaurant.

Check out all the new and exciting offerings we have brought to give you more options: re-designed ready to serve Family Meals, Sushi Specials or Cook Your Own, pre-made meals.

You are able to come pick up your food to enjoy at home, but you may want to stay and enjoy the outdoors – have a picnic at Bass Lake! You can bring a picnic blanket to set up on the deck or on the beach shore. There are also multiple self-serve outdoor picnic tables available throughout the property.

If you decide that we deliver to you, we will now deliver our family meals AND regular menu items. In addition if you are ordering 4 or more entrees – your delivery is FREE!

This way, you are helping our employees keep their hours, also you create new jobs (delivery drivers).

3. BUY GIFT CARDS (OR GIFT CERTIFICATES)

When shopping for holiday gifts for your loved ones, consider getting a gift card for your favorite business.  At The Pines Resort, gift cards never expire, so you can use them whenever you feel comfortable. In addition, you can use them for lodging, dining and even groceries, so they offer a lot of flexibility.

For a limited time, we are also offering Holiday Gift Certificate. They are restricted to be redeemed next year in the Spring or Fall 2021, but the paid value never expires! It is worth to mention, that certificates are a price guarantee, so they offer a deal for a room with an option to add a resort credit, but you are locked into special price that is only available for a limited time. Read more…

4. BUY LOCAL

Before you decide to order from Amazon or enter a big box store, that are often overcrowded, please check in with your local boutique or vendor if they may have what you are looking for. There are multiple stores in the Pines Village, selling clothing, accessories, natural products, cosmetics, candles, jewelry and more. In addition to finding more unique items, you are also keeping a small business owner, your neighbor, in business and keeping wealth in your community.

Many of the businesses have the capability for online orders or will take your order over the phone, so you can pick up your goods with little to no personal interaction.

5. ENGAGE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

This is the best way to support your business. It is FREE for you and PRICELESS for us. Help us stay visible, engaged and in people’s mind. How to do that? Here are some ideas:

• “Like” our social media profiles.
• “Like” pictures that we share.
• “Share” or re-posts any content that you found helpful or entertaining.
• Write us a review.
• Watch the video that we took and posted for you.
• Drop a comment under our post.
• Engage in the conversation under our post.
• Participate in our giveaways and contests.
• Answer our “Call to Action” discussions.
• Join our mailing list.
• Tell your friends about us.
• etc.

As you know marketing is expensive but also necessary in these days. Each interaction helps tell other people about that business and build customer database which are crucial when trying to stay afloat.

6. STAY AT HOME

We are entering the 10th month of this pandemic, so you should already know this. If you are unwell, have a fever, runny nose, cough, or any other cold symptom – do your part and stay at home! We understand, that nurturing your mental health is essential; exercising and fitness helps boosting immunity, but more important than anything is stopping the spread of this virus! We will be here, ready to welcome you when you are ready. That way, you are helping us by keeping our employees healthy and allowing us to remain open.

Summary

In addition, you can support us, or any other business by being UNDERSTAINING. We are in unprecedented times, dealing with an evolving and very dynamic situation and we need to make a lot of prompt decisions. All decisions are made for safety reasons, some are also made to be more resourceful or due to limited supplies. Our menus might change last minute, we may need to close earlier or on some days to cut our expenses. None of the decisions are being made lightly, so please be understanding. Know that even though we are all operating for profit –  this is not a normal time. Our priority now is to BE SAFE, be a helpful resource to our community and to our guests. We know that everyone has their opinions and fears, but now we need support and understanding. Reach out to us to ask how we are doing. Let us know, that you support our decisions. Let us know that you will be back when it is safe to do so! It means a lot!