Economy

As we close the fourth quarter, we find Downtown Conway continuing to wrestle with the recession.  Like swimming in peanut butter, it takes a  determined effort to make even the smallest amount of progress.  Last year's sales were dismal and as this year ends most businesses find themselves in the same spot that they were in last December.  There are no great financial success stories, but there are a few businesses that have posted slightly improved numbers.

The Bodega on 3rd and Main is up respectably over last year.  The focus after Christmas 2008 shifted to providing customers with more value for their money.  During the real-estate boom Bodega's customers were looking for "quality at all costs".  This year shoppers were much more price sensitive.  About half of Bodega's top sellers this year were new products brought in specifically to address customers changing needs.  Pop's Glass Station also did well considering the economic climate.  Owner, Barbara Streeter launched an Internet marketing campaign that we could all learn from.  Utilizing social media, email blasts, and search engine optimization, Barb was able to keep in touch with her current customers and attract plenty of new ones.  Barb is also singing the praises of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.  As a first year member Pop's Glass Station was visited by a group of writers representing various national travel publications.  About a month after the visit an article featuring Conway appeared in the United Airlines Magazine and word is that there is a pending AAA travel article on it's way.   The MBACC also rewarded Pop's with one of it's largest transactions of the year.  As to be expected, many of our new businesses are off to a slow start.  I hope they can hang in there and gain traction as the new year progresses.

Marilyn from Park Smith reported that her booth at the Dickens Show in MB was a big success!  The Bodega is seriously considering joining her next year at the show.   If other Conway businesses are interested in getting a booth at next year's show they should contact Marilyn @ Park Smith or Debby @ the Bodega.

Organization

Speaking of new businesses word came out recently that Conway Main Street USA is trying to awaken it's Business Development Committee after a four year hibernation.  CMSUSA is a beloved organization in Conway, and deservedly so.   Looking back through the years this program has earned recognition for many great accomplishments, most notably the overall redevelopment of our historical business district.  In the past CMUSA has flourished by the efforts of  talented, dedicated, and competent leaders who had a commitment to follow the National Main Street guidelines.  2009 was especially contentious as the City of Conway, local business owners, and citizens have tried to get things back on track.  While 2009 had it's difficulties, I have seen our labor begin to bare fruit.  I look forward to continue helping return CMUSA to it's former glory in 2010.

New Businesses

Fresh Cut Florist is open for business at 909 Norman Alley. Scott Johnson Manager/Designer, has jumped right in to the fold of Downtown  Conway business.  Despite the inherent difficulties in opening a new storefront, Scott has gone above and beyond to support local events.  Fresh Cut Florist provided a magnificent wreath for CREATE!Conway's silent wreath auction.  They also donated hours of planning and setup, as well as the beautiful decor for the Chamber's Dec. After Hours event.   Join us in the alley Friday Jan. 15th for their ribbon cutting celebration, it should be a big one! Knowing all that they've done for the Chamber already, I expect the Chamber will return the favor multiplied. If you need details call Scott at 488-0859.

The new Mexican restaurant on Laurel is open, we can add Cinco de Mayo celebrations to the Conway Music and Art Festival line-up.  Feedback has been good so far. No alcohol license as of 01/11/09, they said it would be a couple weeks.

If you have not been to the Crafty Rooster, you need to get there.  My fourth grader says it's her favorite place to eat downtown, she recommends the nachos and wraps.  I like the mini-wiches and chips.  Open late, open Sundays, attracting students, great food, friendly service, savvy marketing, I'm willing to say it is the best addition to downtown Conway in 2009.

Conway Computer has opened on Main Street in the Benton Building.  Don't worry, they've said that they are in no way related to Seaside Computers.  My first experience was great.

Good Ideas

Magnolias Bridal and Formal Wear is moving from the 700 block to the 300 block of Main Street.  Now brides can park at one location and shop two great dress shops, two wedding cake artists, three caterers, and register for fine gifts.  We should have a downtown "Bridal Walk".  We could have the brides in guided groups of 10 start at the Benton building with a brief introduction.  They could then proceed to Crady's for a small catering sample and wedding cake display.  Then step next door to Amanda's and Magnolias for dresses. Then sample food and cakes again at the Trestle, review registry and champagne options at the Bodega.  They could continue around Downtown visiting any business that caters to brides.  Stagger the groups about 30 minutes apart, so there is a continuous flow around downtown.  They  could end back at the Benton Building or Peanut Warehouse (wedding/reception venues) where outside vendors, planners, florists, etc pay for booths (fundraiser!).  If anyone would like to plan this event, I would be willing to help them get it started.  If it was done well it could be a nice economic boost for Downtown Conway and even make a little money for the organizer.  Maybe a good plan for Conway Main Street, Conway Chamber, a small coalition of Downtown business owners, Horry Independent, local wedding planner, a local church.....any takers?