Main is shoppers' Lovers Lane

By Jessica Goodman Times-News Staff Writer
Published: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at 4:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 8:08 p.m.

Lovers Lane on Main has returned for its sixth year, hoping to bring business to downtown Hendersonville during the Valentine's Day weekend.

The idea behind Lovers Lane is for two businesses to pair up, with each business offering customers coupons for their business sweetheart.

Hearts out of Tulips ~ Narnia

Kilwin's and Mrs. G and Me are partnered and are offering a 10 percent off coupon for each other.

"It's a fun thing to do," said Lynda Allcock, owner of Mrs. G and Me. "And we're paired up with Kilwin's next door."

The partnership helps businesses network. It's also a chance for older, more established businesses to help younger, up-and-coming businesses.

"The customers who don't usually shop in your store will come in to use their Valentine's coupons," said Barbara Hughes of Narnia Studios, who helps organize the event. "It's kind of neat. I'm getting a whole new base of customers."

The Lovers Lane has grown, Hughes explained. Usually only 10 to 12 businesses sign up, but this year, 16 businesses are participating.

"It brings people into stores they might not have previously visited, and it creates goodwill with your customers and your fellow merchants," said Becky Banadyga, manager/owner of Sherman's Sports and Army Store.

Sherman's Sports is offering 10 percent off an entire purchase, and is partnered with Dancing Bear Toys, which is offering 20 percent off one regularly priced item. Banadyga said she has had some response to the coupons.

"It promotes some activity," she added. "Come in and visit us. Come and support local shops."

The foul weather has stifled walking traffic in the downtown area
"The weather is just keeping everyone in," Allcock said. "I think people are dead worried about their heating bills for January and are being very careful about what they spend money on."
"Come down and support Main Street," she added. "We're all doing a little extra."
The promotion will continue through Sunday.