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2024 NC Main Street Champion
Aaron and Lauren Mathews moved to Marion in 2017, bringing with them a wealth of experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm for their new community.
With 30 years of restaurant experience, Aaron wasted no time immersing himself in Marion’s culture, enrolling in the Growing Entrepreneurs Marion program to better understand the community. In 2018, Aaron and Lauren opened McDowell Local with a mission to provide fresh, locally sourced food. Their dedication to this goal has made them strong supporters of local farms and small businesses, strengthening Marion’s local economy.
Lauren’s marketing expertise has been a tremendous asset to the Marion Business Association. Under her guidance, the association updated the Downtown Marion brochure and map, designed a billboard for increased interstate exposure, and partnered with the tourism authority to refresh Marion’s logo. Lauren also spearheaded fundraising efforts to expand the town’s Christmas lights and decorations, creating festive enhancements that will be cherished for years to come.
A past president of the Marion Business Association, Lauren continues to serve on the Economic Development and Marketing Committees, contributing her skills to initiatives that promote growth and vibrancy in Downtown Marion.
Aaron and Lauren are entrepreneurial, community-focused, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Their contributions have had a lasting impact on Marion’s downtown, making them invaluable members of the community.
Marion is proud to honor Aaron and Lauren Mathews as its 2024 North Carolina Main Street Champions.