Charlie's BBQ & Bakery

COVID-19 support project creating t-shirt designs for local barbecue restaurant revenue generation

When COVID-19 lockdowns threatened the survival of local restaurants in 2020, small business owners had to quickly pivot to new revenue streams to keep their doors open. Charlie's BBQ & Bakery, the beloved Ridgedale neighborhood spot established in 2018, faced this exact challenge. Known for their authentic barbecue and southern 'grandma' styled desserts, owner Elizabeth St. Clair reached out to Whiteboard for creative support during this uncertain time. She needed fun, engaging t-shirt designs that could generate additional revenue while the restaurant remained closed to dine-in customers. Our team was eager to help a local business weather the crisis, developing playful shirt concepts that captured Charlie's personality and barbecue culture. The designs featured clever wordplay and barbecue-themed humor that resonated with both loyal customers and barbecue enthusiasts. These shirts provided Elizabeth with a much-needed revenue stream during the most challenging period many restaurants had ever faced, while also building brand awareness and community support for Charlie's unique combination of pit barbecue and homestyle desserts that makes them a Ridgedale favorite.