Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Cross.
Hi Dawn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I spent over 20 years in corporate America and although to many who saw my career climb, salary and lifestyle, I was unsatisfied because I always knew I waws capable of more. I spent the last 16 years working for a major oil and gas company which is a very cyclical industry. I knew I was in desperate need of a change and if history repeated itself, the company was going to make major changes soon. I made the conscious decision to get my personal finances in order, paying off all debt and prepare to step away from my security blanket, my consistent and safe career.
I love entertaining family and friends for holidays and other occasions so I decided to take that passion for hospitality and created an environment where I could host the community and introduce them to some of my favorite cocktails and food. Royalty Bar & Lounge was born.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I entered into the hospitality industry shortly after Covid-19 became a thing. I had to make the tough decision to keep going or allow the fear of the unknown…unprecedented times. I choose to keep going. I faced challenges of state and local offices being closed which caused a severe lag in processing times for required documentation, permits and approvals to proceed with construction.
Once I made it through the aforementioned challenges, I had to figure out how to operate in a safe manner as to protect my staff and patrons from Covid-19. I had additional overhead cost related to PPE and other sanitizing requirements needed to keep the business clean and safe for everyone.
As you know, we’re big fans of Royalty Bar & Lounge. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Royalty Bar & Lounge is an upscale bar offering small bites, craft cocktails and an amazing inclusive environment. We cater to the 30+ professional that works hard but also plays hard.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was always interested in trends. What is the latest trend, why people gravitate towards a particular trend, and how that trends effects society. Basically, I wanted to know why people do what they do and like what they like. In high school, I wanted to create the trend rather than follow what everyone else was doing.
My mom always says I’m the most fearless person she knows and I trust myself enough to try new things.
Contact Info:
- Email: RoyaltyBarLounge@gmail.com
- Instagram: RoyaltyBar_Lounge
Image Credits
Th3rd Eye Studios
