By Ally Lanasa, Staff Writer

ALLY LANASA/BAYSIDE GAZETTE
Berlin was voted the “Best Small Town for Shopping” in a USA Today 10Best national contest, according to an announcement last Friday.

(July 16, 2020) Downtown Berlin was named the “Best Small Town for Shopping” in a USA Today 10Best contest out of 18 nominations.

“It’s another indication in our community’s philosophy that is quality over quantity,” Mayor Gee Williams said.

Williams added that he is pleased to see a continued focus on interpersonal relations with customers downtown.

“Locals are known to our businesses and guests are always welcome,” he said.

Berlin has more than 50 retail shops, selling antiques, jewelry, art and clothing downtown.

Williams believes Berlin is deserving of such an award because of the variety of boutique shopping and convenient dining that is offered.

“There is a nice combination of businesses and business people,” he added.

A panel of experts joined 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, then the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Voting was closed on Monday, June 29. The top 10 winning small towns were announced on 10Best.com on Friday, July 10.

Williams commended the business owners for working cooperatively over the years to benefit the local economy and earn the town national recognition.

Several new business owners were also thrilled about the award.

Christine Carpenter, the co-owner of Beach Gypsy on Williams Street, is honored to be a part of the historic district’s success.

“It’s very exciting, and I think it showcases what our wonderful town has to offer,” Carpenter said. “It’s just great that people are recognizing it.”

Beach Gypsy moved from Ocean Pines to Downtown Berlin in January after the owners, Christina Mullaney and Carpenter, fell in love with the area.

Melissa Stover, the owner of Victorian Charm on North Main Street, agreed.

“Being that I’m kind of the newbie to Berlin, the new owner [of Victorian Charm], I’m super excited for the town,” Stover said. “It just goes to show what a great town we have.”

In January, Stover bought the boutique from Steve and Debbie Frene. Frene opened the shop with her mother, Carole Smith, in the 1990s.

Berlin was also ranked first in the contest in 2018.

“I’m grateful and happy that our community has been on this course for some time,” Williams said.

The mayor encourages the local business owners to “keep up the good work!”

For the full list of winners, visit www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-small-town-for-shopping/.