There are so many interesting and exciting people and places in the Bradenton area, yet many don’t receive the attention they truly deserve.
Over the next year, Discover Bradenton will be uncovering Manatee County’s best “hidden gems” – the locals making waves and must-visit places that are some of the area’s best-kept secrets.
This week, we were thrilled to connect with Dayna Camp, owner of Sunsets & Sweets. Here’s what she had to say…
It’s so great to connect with you today, Dayna! You truly are one of the area’s best Hidden Gems. Can you share a bit about your business and how you got here?
Sunsets & Sweets is a mobile pop-up ice cream shop. I serve vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry hand-dipped ice cream.
We offer ice cream soda floats, milkshakes, cups, sundaes, and our signature crazy shakes! Sometimes you need Vitamin Sea — a milkshake, topped with fresh strawberries and cheesecake!
How I got here…
My family moved to Bradenton Beach in 1991 from the suburbs of Chicago. Life quickly became about enjoying the simple things, like days on the water, watching the sunset each night, and going for ice cream at Joe’s Eats & Sweets!
I carried on the tradition of watching the sunset and then ice cream with my kids. In April 2024, I secured a permanent spot to operate out in Parrish next to Gulley’s.
I love this! And how has this venture been for you so far?
It has been incredible. With local small businesses, there’s a type of grit, dedication & connection to the community that comes built right in.
When you have lunch at Gulley’s & dessert from me, you’re amongst locals who never met a stranger. And there’s something really special about that.
This whole thing has really been a family affair. The business concept was formed from my childhood memories. My dad was a huge part of getting the logistics together — from buying the trailer to stocking it and being on standby for everything I forgot!
My mom, sister, and brother-in-law are always eager to help me – and my kids are my biggest motivation.
What do you love most about your business?
I truly believe it’s the little moments in life that have the biggest impact, and I love finding value in simplicity.
I hope my business helps create small, meaningful traditions with family and friends – times they can look back on and cherish, where true memories are made. I want it to be a reminder that things don’t have to be perfect to be sweet!
I heard you’ve been pretty involved in the community, too. Can you tell us a bit about that?
As a business, I have donated private event packages to silent auctions for youth groups, and local charity events to raise funds.
In September 2024, I donated 20٪ of my revenue for the month and 100% of my tips to a GoFundMe benefiting the family of a late Deputy. I proudly support our Armed Forces.
I love to hear that! And before we wrap up, is there anything else you want us to know about your business?
I grew up in Manatee County, when everyone knew everyone. I have left and come back, but have always considered Manatee County home.
My business is small and relatively “new” but my heart and hope for our community is enormous.
My hope is to be a positive part of our community and to keep everyone sweet along the way. Thank you!
Sunsets & Sweets is located at:
12255 US 301, PARRISH, FL 34219
Sunsetsandsweets@gmail.com * 941.500.4413
The schedule is posted weekly on Facebook. Please contact us directly to book!
