Downtown Waynesville invites the public to its reimagined monthly stroll—Waynesville First Friday: Shop, Sip & Stroll—beginning on May 1 and happening 5–8 p.m. each first Friday of the month through December. The rebranded and revised initiative is inclusive of all businesses, features the addition of a social district and boasts new marketing strategies including a charming mascot—Wayne the Bear.
“A key goal of the rebranding was to honor Art After Dark and its long-standing success, so regular attendees will still recognize the familiar monthly stroll,” says Jerry Jackson who owns Salmagundi Gallery and spearheaded the event’s new direction along with Tiffani Watts, manager of Twigs & Leaves Gallery. “At the same time, visitors will notice several updates, including a new logo and signage, increased merchant participation, tour maps and expanded opportunities for local craft vendors and musicians.”
Merchants were invited to collaborate on the initiative, submitting their views and voting as plans were being made, and an open call was put out for logo designs. Sabine Allen designed Wayne the Bear, who will serve as a symbol for the event, appearing throughout downtown and on future merchandise…