Community Spotlight: How Katie & Will Carson Transformed Waterfront Hospitality in Lake George
We had the pleasure of chatting with Katie Carson, a dynamic business leader in Lake George. Katie shared her journey from working in her family's business to eventually acquiring ownership and revitalizing it. She also provided her vision for the future of the Lake George area.
How Did You Get Started in the Shoreline Business?
My journey began at Shoreline, my family's company, where I worked for my grandfather since I was 14. I started as a busser and worked my way through almost every position at Shoreline.
After college, I managed the restaurant, and Will (her husband) bartended on weekends just to be around me, so he was very involved in the business early on.
Later, I joined Leroy Holding, Will’s family’s truck leasing company. I started in sales, then moved to accounting, and eventually became Vice President, working alongside Will, who was President.
We had about 100 employees and 700 assets across 12 locations. In August 2022, we sold the company, and then I bought my family's company, Shoreline.
The Renewed Vision for Shoreline
When we bought Shoreline, we knew we wanted to make it our own. We rebranded as soon as we bought it [and renamed it Lake George Waterfront Cruises & Hospitality]. This rebranding included major renovations at our restaurant, which has been transformed into The Lighthouse Grill.
It’s important to keep reinvesting and bringing fresh energy to the area. We felt Lake George needed a breath of fresh air, and it’s inspiring to see other businesses doing the same.
Places like the Lobby Bar and Fort William Henry are also investing in exciting changes, and it’s great to be part of this collective effort.
How Have You Stayed Connected With the Community?
Over the years, we’ve collaborated with Adirondack Winery and become involved with the Lake George Winter Carnival. We’ve also recently worked more with the Lake George Association.
The community here has been incredibly welcoming and supportive of our changes, and we look forward to more collaborations and networking.
What Do You Enjoy Most About Lake George?
I’ve lived in the Lake George area for a significant part of my life, and it’s a place that has truly become home. The community here is amazing, and I love seeing the local businesses flourish and grow together.
Thoughts on the $10 Million Downtown Revitalization
The downtown revitalization is a significant step for Lake George. People visit Lake George year after year, even during COVID, so maintaining and enhancing the area is crucial. Raising the bar higher will enhance the visitor experience and keep them coming back.
What Are Your Future Plans?
We’re working on renovating the Horicon, with plans to rebuild the second deck into a glass atrium similar to the Adirondack, its sister ship.
We’re also planning to build new rental units where the Woodbine Motel currently stands. These will be standalone units with a tiny home feel, adding more charm to the area.
Plan a Visit to Lake George Waterfront Cruises
Thank you for speaking with us! Katie Carson's journey from working at her family's business to transforming it into Waterfront Hospitality showcases her dedication and vision.
With ambitious plans ahead, Katie and her husband Will remain committed to enhancing the Lake George visitor experience.
The next time you're in Lake George, NY, be sure to check out Waterfront Cruises and the revitalized Lighthouse Grill!