This story is part of a partnership between the Montgomery Advertiser and the Living Democracy program at Auburn University . Now in its 13th year, the program disperses students across rural Alabama to spend 10 weeks learning more about the inner workings of the community and writing about what they observe.
CAMDEN − The Wilcox County Chamber Committee held its first “Sip, Shop and Stroll” event in Camden on June 21, and event sponsors said it was a vibrant display of community unity that surpassed expectations for local businesses.
“Sip, Shop, and Stroll” featured after-hours shopping, music and deals. Drink and food specials by local eateries, pop-up shops and door prizes added to the event.
Ashley Kitzinger, vice president of the Wilcox Area Chamber of Commerce Board, emphasized the pivotal role of small businesses. "They provide for the local people and build a resilient economy," Kitzinger said. "Their contribution is invaluable.”
Molly Allen, the owner of a local boutique, Collections by Molly, said events like Sip, Shop and Stroll help put “Camden back on the map.”
“We have so much to offer, and events like these attract visitors who might not otherwise know about us,” Allen said.
Jim Byard Jr., an advocate for community and economic engagement who is also the former mayor of Prattville, noted that “small businesses are the fabric of our towns. They give them their unique character. Imagine how bland it is without them.”
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The economic significance of “Sip, Shop and Stroll” was undeniable, Kitzinger said, as it helped boost local businesses during a typically slower period. “The event builds awareness and brings people into town,” Kitzinger said.
“It’s not just locals," Allen said. "We had visitors from neighboring counties. It’s a substantial boost for the economy.”
As Camden looks to the future, the success of “Sip, Shop and Stroll” is building momentum for other events. “Successful communities leverage their unique strengths," Byard said. "Camden has something special, and events like this help amplify that.”
Kitzinger and Allen both agreed that it beat expectations. “There’s still so much to learn, but the turnout and support were fantastic. It's about making people aware of what’s happening in our county,” Kitzinger said.
“The event brings everyone together, vendors, residents, visitors," Allen said. "We are all working toward the common goal of showcasing Wilcox County. The event drew in out-of-towners who might become regular customers. It’s about drawing potential customers into our small town.”
Community involvement was also a cornerstone of the event’s success. Kitzinger highlighted the growing interest in participation. Now that people see its impact, they’re eager to get involved next year, she added.
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For local businesses, participation meant more than just sales. It was about community collaboration and mutual support. “Businesses promoted other businesses,” Kitzinger said.
Byard emphasized the lasting community benefits. “Events like Sip, Shop, and Stroll build community pride and spirit. They create lasting relationships between residents and businesses,” he said.
Naomi Taylor , a Living Democracy student at Auburn University, is living and learning this summer in Camden, Alabama, as a Jean O'Connor Snyder Intern with the David Mathews Center for Civic Life. The nonprofit program, coordinated by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities in the College of Liberal Arts, prepares undergraduate college students for civic life through living-learning experiences in the summer .
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: New 'Sip, Shop and Stroll' event boosts business in Camden
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