The Duck Inn
Project Scope: Branding · Website Design · Digital Bookings
Problem
The Duck Inn is more than just a café, lounge, and motel—it’s a hometown landmark in Soldotna, Alaska. For decades, “The Duck” has been a local favorite, known for its cozy charm and community roots. But despite its popularity, the business never had a website, relying solely on a loyal Facebook following to connect with customers.
When sisters Alyssa and Bailey stepped in to purchase the business from their parents, they hit the ground running—bringing fresh energy to the legacy their family had built. Their vision: to honor the past while bringing the brand into the digital age.
They were referred to me by their incredible mom Lela, who I had the pleasure of working with on her own new business, KB LaSeR Wash. It was clear from the start that this family has entrepreneurial grit and heart in spades. Alyssa and Bailey saw the opportunity to elevate The Duck’s digital presence with a full rebrand and user-friendly website that could grow alongside their bold plans for expansion—including online bookings for a brand-new sports simulator, event promotion, and easier access to menus and services.
Solution
We collaborated on a full branding and web experience that would feel as welcoming as The Duck itself. Every element—from the colors to the fonts to the imagery—was chosen with community in mind.
Brand Design: The sisters loved the shape of the Kenai River, which mirrors the silhouette of a duck—a nod to their town and their brand’s nickname. We incorporated this clever detail into a new logo that blended tradition and modern flair. A casual, friendly font (inspired by their physical signage) and a bold yet playful palette helped strike the perfect tone.
Website Development:
We built a complete, mobile-friendly website that offers:Easy navigation for café menus, lounge events, and motel information
An embedded booking system for the indoor sports simulator
A custom catering inquiry form to streamline large event requests
Seasonal hours and update flexibility, so the sisters can keep their content fresh and timely
Content + SEO: Using the family’s own photography, we brought forward the people and stories behind The Duck. We also implemented local SEO strategies to connect with visitors exploring the Kenai Peninsula and driving along K-Beach Road, including a Google Maps integration to increase search visibility.
Results
18,000+ website visits in the first six months of launch
Major increase in bookings for the new sports simulator
Positive customer feedback on the fresh brand and usability of the website
Stronger community connection through storytelling and updated visuals
Growth Plan
As Alyssa and Bailey continue building on their family's legacy, we’ve laid the groundwork for scalable growth. Up next:
Launching email marketing to promote specials and events
Potential for online merch sales and branded community gear
Expanding the website to include blog features or spotlight stories on local partnerships and The Duck’s rich history
📍 Explore the Live Site:
www.theduckinnak.com
📱 Follow Their Journey:
Instagram: @theduckinncafelounge
A huge thank you to Alyssa and Bailey—and the whole family—for trusting me with this project. From working with Lela on KB LaSeR Wash to now watching her daughters build something incredible of their own, it’s been an honor to support such a dynamic, entrepreneurial family. Your love for Soldotna and your drive to lead the next generation of The Duck Inn is inspiring. I can’t wait to see where you take it next!
Your next level needs more than a logo. You need a brand, website, and business strategy that work together. Let’s build it all—together. Book Your Strategy Call
Chelsea Klender is the Business Strategist & Creative Director behind RISEmpowerment, where clarity meets creative to help business owners build brands, websites, and strategies that actually grow.
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