👀 What's brewing in downtown Mooresville?

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I Didn't Expect You Guys to Be This Honest

Last week I told you about the pumpkin patch turning into an all-day event, and I asked whether the higher cost of living has changed how often you go out around Lake Norman.

I figured some of you would say yes. I didn't expect it to be this lopsided.

Here's how it shook out:

45% said they're going out a lot less
35% said a little, they're more selective now
19% said not really, about the same
1% said they're actually going out more (whoever you are, I'd like to know your secret)

So in other words, about 8 out of every 10 of you have changed how you spend your time and money out here. That's not a small shift.

But what really stuck with me was what you wrote. One of you said lunch for a family of four can easily hit $100 with tip, so now you pick experiences that "have more meaning and memories." Another said you've swapped big concerts for the Cain Center and the occasional brewery with live music. And a few of you kept it simple: "Just too expensive. Period."

I get it. Honestly, it reminded me of those old pumpkin patch pictures. The days I'd give anything to go back to weren't the expensive ones. They were the simple ones.

And that's kind of what I'm hearing from you. Nobody said they stopped going out completely. You're just being more intentional about it, right? Fewer nights out, but better ones.

If you're looking for something easy on the wallet this week, a lot of what's in the events below is free or close to it.

Now I'm curious about something else…

What's your favorite free (or almost free) thing to do around Lake Norman?

I'll share what you say next week.

P.S. A few of you know my day job is helping people with mortgages. After last week's issue, one reader reached out with a question about tapping their home equity, and we ended up having a really good conversation about their options.

And if you're self-employed, I hear this one a lot: "My business is doing well, but the bank looked at my tax returns and said no." That's usually a write-off problem, not an income problem, and it's most of what I do. If that sounds familiar, or you've got any question about your house, just hit reply. No pitch, no pressure.

Local Lowdown

🍻 New Brewery and Distillery opening in Mooresville

The Gist: Two new spots are getting closer to opening in downtown Mooresville! Churchill Brothers Brewing and RudeDog Distillery have received their certificate of occupancy at 275 S. Broad St. after nearly a year of renovations. The family-owned businesses are putting the finishing touches on their spaces and awaiting final state alcohol permits before welcoming customers.

Why It Matters: The additions will bring new places to enjoy locally brewed craft beer and small-batch spirits right in the heart of downtown. It's another exciting development for Mooresville's growing downtown scene, giving residents and visitors more reasons to shop, explore and spend time supporting local businesses.

🏡 New Lake Norman townhome project underway

The Gist: Construction is underway on a new community featuring 187 rental townhomes near U.S. 21 and Norman Ridge Lane, between Mooresville and Troutman. The nearly 30-acre development will offer three- and four-bedroom homes with private backyard access, along with shared amenities including a pool, clubhouse, spa and dog park.

Why It Matters: With continued growth around Lake Norman, the development will add another housing option for those who want the space of a townhome without purchasing a property. It also reflects ongoing residential development along the Mooresville-Troutman corridor.

Featured Home

16109 N Point Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 photo tour

16109 N Point Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 - 5 beds • 5 baths • 5,611 sq ft

Restaurant Radar

🥟 A taste of Venezuela in Cornelius!

20833 Catawba Ave, Cornelius, NC

Pasteles La Andinita is bringing authentic Venezuelan comfort food to Cornelius from its food truck on Catawba Avenue! The menu features golden, flaky empanadas, savory pasteles stuffed with fillings like seasoned beef, and arepas piled high with meats, cheese and other tasty toppings.

Don't forget the homemade garlic sauce, a favorite pairing for many of their dishes. You'll also find sweet options like guava-filled pastries and refreshing drinks to round out your meal. Whether you're already a fan of Venezuelan food or looking to try something new, there's plenty worth exploring.

Business Brief

🛍️ Boutique fashion & a little Halloween fun!

19818 N Cove Rd Suite B, Cornelius, NC

CoCo Couture LKN is a women's boutique in Cornelius' Jetton Village, offering a stylish mix of clothing, jewelry and accessories. You'll find everything from everyday favorites to dressier pieces, with brands like Frank Lyman, Joseph Ribkoff, Lysse and Picadilly. The shop also offers personal styling to help you put together the perfect outfit.

And there's something fun coming up! On Tuesday, October 27, from 3–6 p.m., CoCo Couture is hosting a Trick or Trunk Show featuring the latest Picadilly collection. Stop by for fall fashion inspiration, personal styling, treats and a little Halloween fun!

Local Events