We all know and love the seasonal markets at Lost Worlds but what you might not know is the woman who helps make these happen. Meet Christine Rinkert, owner of Luna’s Lifestyle, a luxury micro boutique offering a mix of apparel, art and jewelry. Christine’s love for clothes and fashion drove her to build a retail business that persevered through a recession and a global pandemic and continues to serve the Lake Norman community. This sense of community is Christine’s sweet spot and is just one of the reasons her partnership with Lost Worlds is an important part of our brewery community.

How it all Began

When Christine purchased Luna’s at the Lake in 2012, she wanted it to be a space where she could showcase artists and makers. ‘Saturday Markets at Luna’s’ was a way to help support people especially throughout COVID-19. “Artists, bakers, candle-makers and even chocolatiers are all looking to make some revenue that they lost during COVID-19 and to be discovered within the community,” says Christine.

After helping the community for 20 years, she decided to transform her business into a luxe micro boutique. Christine brought the idea of continuing the Saturday Markets to Lost Worlds as a way to bring awareness to the brewery and couldn’t be happier with the success. Christine and the Lost Worlds staff worked together as a team to build branded markets with a seasonal slant to bring the community together and support artisans and makers along the way.

“The seasonal markets definitely helped bring awareness to Lost Worlds while also supporting local artists and makers, especially throughout COVID-19. The success of the markets couldn’t have happened without Christine’s passion for supporting the local community and her wonderful ideas,” says Dave Hamme.

The first market we planned was a Christmas Market that took place on Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday. The mask mandate and social distancing were still in place, but the team successfully executed an experience that brought the community together in a safe way to celebrate the holiday season and support local businesses.

“My favorite part is five minutes before the market is open to the public because everyone is excited and anticipating a great day ahead,” says Rinkert. Christine goes beyond selecting and coordinating the makers and artists and helping plan the markets, she loves to meet the small business owners and support the market herself.

At the Summer Market, there were 35 artists and makers. The market experience is so great that more than half of the vendors want to come back for the next market. “Vendors immediately email me after the market to see when the next one is. I even have people stop by Luna’s and ask to be part of the next market, “says Christine.

Harvest Market is Just Around the Corner

After every market, Christine and the Lost Worlds team work to improve the upcoming markets to continue to build a better experience for the makers and shoppers. With Fall upon us, the greatly anticipated Harvest Market will be held on October 10th from 11-4pm. Market-goers can expect to see many of their favorites return and the addition of new local businesses. Hope to see you there for fall festivities, brews and more!

Meet Chris Rinkert: Our Market Partner, Boutique Owner and Small Business Advocate