Downtown Braselton could soon be welcoming some new businesses, and local leaders are already exploring what might be a good fit.

With several commercial spaces becoming available, the Braselton Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is working to attract businesses that complement existing shops while giving residents and visitors more reasons to spend time downtown.

The goal isn't simply to fill empty storefronts. It's to bring in businesses that contribute to a thriving downtown where people want to shop, dine, and explore.

New Opportunities in Downtown Braselton

One of the available spaces is on Davis Street, where House of Boykin owner Caryn McGarity is retiring. Another space in the Braselton Brothers Building, previously occupied by a cheeseboard and olive oil store, is also available.

The Braselton Urban Redevelopment Agency (URA), which owns the buildings, will make the final decisions on leases while working alongside the DDA to recruit businesses.

During an October 15 meeting, DDA Chairperson Sue Wyatt explained that the economic development committee is looking for businesses that support existing merchants while bringing additional traffic downtown.

What Types of Businesses Could Be Coming?

Research presented to the URA earlier this year offers some interesting possibilities.

The town reviewed retail spending patterns and visitor shopping habits to identify types of businesses that might be successful in the Braselton Brothers Store building.

Among the opportunities identified were boutique retail shops, wellness services, and specialty food businesses such as bakeries, ice cream shops, butcher shops, and restaurants.

Another possibility? Businesses that offer an experience rather than just traditional shopping.

These aren't confirmed businesses or announced openings. They're potential opportunities identified through research as downtown leaders consider how to make the best use of available commercial spaces.

There's already a bakery in the 1904 and three restaurants in that immediate space. I love the idea of an experience, however more unique retail would be perfect for a space that was once a market for locals to shop.

Naked South was a very popular store. It offered unique merchandise that drew a lot of people into the area which in turn ate lunch and visited other businesses. Those are the types of retail that would benefit the other local businesses, especially those in the 1904.

It's About More Than Filling Storefronts

Attracting the right businesses is only part of the equation. Keeping downtown businesses successful is just as important.

During the DDA discussion, local developer Matt Ruppel emphasized the importance of bringing visitors downtown through events, along with maintaining manageable rental rates.

DDA member Lyn Rooks also raised the importance of considering how decisions about rents and property management affect small business owners.

She suggested that a Downtown business owner serve on the URA, giving local merchants a greater voice in decisions that directly impact them.

It's an important consideration for the locally owned downtown businesses help create much of its character.

Building a Stronger Downtown

It's encouraging to see downtown leaders taking a thoughtful approach to attracting new businesses rather than simply filling available spaces.

By considering what downtown is missing, what residents and visitors might enjoy, and how new businesses can complement those already here, the DDA is helping move the conversation in the right direction.

It's a smart approach to growth that builds on what makes Downtown Braselton special.