Meet Megan Louya, Our Taproom and Event Manager in Charlotte
We’re excited to introduce you to Megan Louya in our Charlotte taproom. Not only does she co-share the taproom manager role, she’s the spark to ignite private events in our taprooms. She’s a rare Charlotte native, and planted roots in Boone after attending Appalachian State University, where she earned a degree in Dietetics. With two decades of experience in the food service industry and eight years in the craft brewing space, Megan’s journey into a craft career began with social outings with friends that later led to her first brewery job in Boone where she took part in the brewing process. Known among friends and family as the go-to planner for parties and events, Megan naturally transitioned into professional event planning, organizing staff outings, Christmas parties, and more.
Get to know Megan here, and when you’re ready to plan your next event, we know the perfect person!
What is it about working in the craft beer industry that you enjoy?
Simply put -- the beer and the people. I have met so many of my close friends through the industry, and the creative, great tasting beer has always been a plus. What is special about the Charlotte beer scene is having so many great options throughout the city! Everyone in the industry is supportive of their peers and that is something you don't tend to see in other job settings.
What is it about Lost Worlds that separated us from other breweries you’ve worked in?
Lost Worlds comes with a sense of history that other breweries don't seem to have. There have been a few times where people have asked about where our beer names come from and when explaining the history behind it, it garnishes lot of interest and if it helps someone on their trivia team, it's all more helpful!
What have you noticed so far in terms of reception to Lost Worlds’ new Charlotte location?
Reception to the new spot has been great! The neighborhood has been so welcoming to us opening up and it is nice to be the new go-to spot for those that want a casual drink after a walk on the greenway or a day out with your dog!
Event hosting is a big part of your role. What would you tell someone looking to host an event in our Midtown taproom?
With hosting an event at Lost Worlds, you have a built-in server for your party so that guests are able to enjoy each other's company instead of having to stop conversations for refills. My goal as Events Manager is to take some of the stress off the host’s plate in the planning process so there is one less thing to worry about. We offer free room rentals for our non-profit community partners, great spots for after work happy hours, and offer a catering menu from Joan's deli to make it totally turnkey.
What are some unique suggestions you have to make an event more memorable?
With hosting our events, in addition to having a memorable party, customers can sign up for branding their event on koozies, shirts, glassware, etc. as party favors for their guests. I think this works best for wedding rehearsals, bachelor parties, baby showers and large corporate events, such as holiday parties. In addition, businesses can put a fun spin on their happy hours with add-on services like guided wine/bourbon/beer tastings to make it even more memorable.
When you’re not at Lost Worlds Charlotte, what can we find you doing in your spare time?
When I'm not at LW, you can usually find me trying to get in a quick hike up in the mountains, at a Panthers or Charlotte FC game, at the pool if it's warm or hanging out at home with my cat, Stimpy.
What’s the best adventure you’ve ever been on?
The best adventure I've been on was probably when I went to Taiwan with a group of friends in 2018. It was a completely different culture than I had experienced before but in all my travels, I have never experienced a more hospitable group of people. We were on and off a train for the entire week, living out of our backpacks, extremely jet lagged and full of ramen- couldn't have asked for a better experience! :)
What’s your favorite style of beer and favorite Lost Worlds beer?
I tend to like lagers and dark beers (specifically imperial/barrel aged stouts!). Currently, my favorite Lost Worlds beer is the Stinnes Helles Lager, and for cocktails, I love a quality bourbon drink and Old Fashions are my go to if I feel the need to mix bourbon with anything.