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River Grille since 2000, said the village relies heavily on tourist traffic to and from Shenandoah National Park. That dependency makes the slow season from January through March especially tough on businesses.
“Some businesses will work here and some won’t,” Thompson said. "Ib make a business last you have to get the support of the locals.” He added that part of his decision to open the Thornton River Grille in 2003 was based on the thought that a food business would be easier than a retail venture to sustain year-round.
Apple Hill’s Dorothy Waller echoed Thompson’s point that certain types of local businesses can survive based on local customers.
“I think some things are more seasonal,” she said. “I think throughout the year we’re dependent on the locals.”
Rae Gatke, who opened Rae’s Place in November, emphasized that changing storefronts do not necessarily signal a poor business environment.
“Just because a business moved out doesn’t mean it didn’t do well,” she said. “It’s just change, and change isn’t bad.
“In Rappahannock County, you create your own reality” Gatke said. “It wouldn’t matter where I had my business. ... It’s making it what your vision is.”
Gatke said she will consider offering a breakfast menu after Apple Hill closes. Currently, Rae’s has been open for lunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday and for lunch and dinner from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday to avoid interfering with Apple Hill’s breakfast sales.
Andrew Haley, who runs Blue Ridge Artisans with his wife, Suzanne Zylonis, said he has seen steady improvement and investment in the business
89.6%