CHILDERSBURG, Ala. – Aaron Campbell’s downtown Childersburg establishment, The Nevermore, celebrated its first anniversary over the weekend.
“It’s been an interesting journey, taking things step by step, with a long way to go,” Campbell said.
The business owner reflected on the first year of operations and shared some of the milestones, challenges, and surprises that have shaped The Nevermore’s growth.
Biggest Accomplishment
“Aug. 3, 2025 – simply getting the doors open for business,” Campbell said. “The three months before that and the three months after were so important, putting things together, making adjustments, and taking big steps as we laid the foundation for what was to come.”
Best Decisions
“The first was getting the kitchen open at just the right time,” Campbell said. “That’s been huge. Adding karaoke on Friday nights really kicked things into another gear, allowing us to add fun things throughout the week. It was also huge to expand to being open seven days a week. The timing of how things came together led to some of our best decisions.”
Biggest Surprise
“I’d say there have been a couple of surprises,” Campbell said. “One is the way a strong group of regulars embraced what we’re trying to create – a place to gather and enjoy time with friends. They drive the ideas behind the place, the menu, and the events and activities we’ve added along the way.”
Biggest Obstacle Overcome
“Knowing from the start that I couldn’t do this alone, it’s been about finding the right people to give The Nevermore its personality and identity as a place where people want to enjoy good food, good friends, and a fun atmosphere,” Campbell said. “People are the difference-maker for any business, but they’re especially vital for a gathering place.”
What’s Ahead
“Oh, plenty,” Campbell said. “Next is probably adding lunch service in the coming weeks. Along with that, we’ll add more seating as we expand into the space next door, where we’ll also have our microbrewery. That will allow us to introduce our own brews built around interesting Scottish ales.
“That’s where we’ve been heading all along – creating a unique restaurant and pub with signature tastes people enjoy, step by step.”
