We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dayna Camp. Check out our conversation below.
Dayna, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
2025 has been a busy year for me! In addition to maintaining my full-time job at Feld Entertainment where I work in the motor sports division with Monster Jam and independently running my small business, I am finding joy in several outside projects right now! My daughter is active in the FFA (Future Farmers of America) program at her high school. This year, she is raising a show pig. That means lots of early mornings and late nights at the barn doing chores and tending to her pig. I find the time there so peaceful. I actually enjoy mucking out the pen with her!
I am also the Chairperson for The Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Parrish, FL. Organizing this event is truly an honor.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born in the northwest suburbs of Chicago and moved to Florida at a young age. I was lucky enough to grow up in Manatee County at a time when the towns were small and everyone knew each other. I didn’t realize it then, but life was simple. When my family moved to Bradenton Beach, we enjoyed the little things in life like stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico every night and ice cream from our local island ice cream shops. Its these childhood memories that served as the inspiration years later for my business model. I knew that I wanted to start something that is rooted in community, and fueled by finding joy in the little moments in life with family and friends. When I started working on the menu for Sunsets & Sweets, I knew I needed to find the right balance of over- the – top indulgent menu items without veering too far from sweet and simple. From day one, my mission has been to be a place where family and friends want to go and watch the sunset from the adirondack chairs and enjoy their favorite milkshakes! Staying involved in my community is also a huge part of my business model. I believe that paying it forward and spreading kindness is the secret ingredient to reminding us that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be sweet.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Being a mom is by far my most important relationship. You can read the books, and listen to endless advice, but I believe regardless of how much you think you have things figured out, it is a daily process of learning as you go. It is picking yourself up quickly, when you fall, because your children are depending on you. You cannot sit in self doubt and let time pass you by. As a parent, each moment counts. It is learning to forgive yourself, because the way your children need you and see you is far more important that anything that I might allow to keep me down. My son and daughter have taught me that regardless of how difficult the season may be, they need me and love me unconditionally.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes!! Absolutely! There have been several moments since starting the business that I thought, I was maybe in over my head. My dad was one of my biggest supporters in getting the business started. He bought the trailer for me, got it stocked with the fridge and freezer, and was always on standby the first few months to bring me whatever I forgot! Sadly, after being open just four months, he was diagnosed with cancer and passed just 8 weeks after his diagnosis. Life was turned upside down for our family. Although at times I struggle to find the best work-life balance, I know he’d want me to keep rolling.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
As I mentioned earlier, I am a big believer in keeping things simple. Unfortunately, I believe some of our so-called modern conveniences have shifted our values, our work ethics, and our authenticity. I believe wholeheartedly that society as a whole could use a reset to remind ourselves what truly matters in life. For me it just comes down to being a good person, and putting others before yourself. If we stop, and slow down just a tiny bit, lean on each other a little more, and offer a hand up, we could be reminded that there’s a lot of good in the world. I believe we can get back to a time when we truly appreciated the pure and simple moments in life.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I am one-thousand percent the most at peace when I am near the water, ideally at sunset. It is magic. The way it calms my soul is like no other. When life is fast, hectic, chaotic, and overwhelming the ocean just reminds us to slow down, roll with the changing tides and take in the serenity. The kind of serenity you can feel peace just staring off into the horizon. At moments in my life when things are pure chaos, I make it point to find my way to the beach.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunsets.and.sweets?igsh=NjgxYXJuODRmZ3g3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CnspPiLSn/
