My Downtown with Lauren Days

Q&A with Lauren Days, York Business Improvement District Authority Board (YBIDA) Chair | Owner of Sara Ellen Event Venue & Skillet2Plate Soul Bistro

Q: What are you most excited about in your new role with the YBIDA?

The opportunity to meet new people from all avenues of life. Connecting with others and resources is a favorite pastime of mine and being afforded the opportunity to do such is a true blessing.

Q: Why did you choose to serve Downtown Inc in this leadership role?

The opportunity to have my voice heard. It is important not only for myself but for my community as a woman, a person of color, and a business owner. This role will allow me to be in the room for things that not only affect Downtown York but York County in its entirety, and I feel obligated to step up and be involved.

Q: Why did you choose Downtown York for your small businesses?

Downtown York chose me. It all began when I first moved to York in 2013. My family started visiting Central Market, and I tried convincing my best friend to move to York and open a food stand there. While it didn’t manifest then, I knew at some point I’d own a business in Downtown York. It took 8 years, but what a journey it’s been.

Q: What do you love most about operating your two businesses in WeCo?

The community! Most of the business owners are close with each other. What started as a gathering of business owners to help support each other grew into friends and family. Not only do we support each other professionally, but we also support each other in our personal endeavors.

Q: What is your perfect day in Downtown York itinerary?

Ideally, it’ll be a third Friday because that’s a special Friday for WeCo merchants. We stay open later and most merchants provide a special offering for our customers. I'll start with breakfast at Prince St Cafe, spend a few hours there doing admin work or planning a vacation that I likely won’t go on. Then, I’ll head to Central Market for shopping and lunch. Then, I’m heading over to Gather 256 for its special offering, which usually includes an artist talk, and then end my night at Ophelia’s Making Agency to check out the artists’ exhibition.

To learn more about Lauren's businesses, visit SaraEllenVenue.com and Skillet2PlateSoulBistro.com