Many couples are inspired to marry after moving to Park City together, though only a few have the mayor do the honors. That is precisely what Lauri Bilawa and Juan Patterson did. "Dana Williams (three-term Park City mayor from 2002-2014) married us in our living room," recalls Lauri, who co-founded and co-owns Storm Cycles bikes on Center Drive in Kimball Junction with Juan.
"Our love for Park City brought us here from Maryland every year to ski," she recalls. Lauri eventually sold her Maryland business interests, permitting her and Juan to relocate and open Storm Cycles, the town's first year-round bike store, with Todd Henneman of JANS, now retired, in 2013. The local lifestyle immediately captivated them. "Everyone here is genuine and loves dogs, which is great!" Lauri laughs. "This is the most dog-friendly town I have ever seen."
Coming from families that owned small businesses, Lauri and Juan grew up imbibing the lives of independent entrepreneurs, and like many business owners, these Chamber partners always seek ways to give back. 'We work with the Park City Community Foundation to provide bikes and gear for children who can't afford it. We also donate to silent auctions and fundraisers such as Nuzzles, Live Like Sam, Peace House and, of course, Live PC/Give PC,' Lauri shares. A few years ago, they collaborated with Park City police to refurbish unclaimed bikes and donate them to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Avid skiers, the pair also enjoy biking on local trails, naturally. "Juan's favorite thing is mountain biking. We love Wasatch Crest Trail, Flying Dog, Jenni's on Park City Mountain, and Flagstaff Loop." Jennie avers. "We also love hiking with our dog and snowshoeing," she adds. "And we make a wicked paella," she smiles from their sun-splashed store in Kimball Junction.
Airy and inviting, with smooth, stained concrete floors and colorful, top-of-the-line bikes vividly displayed, Storm Cycles is just the place to gear up for some great summer rides.