Bernard’s Market brings a fresh new flavor to DeLand

February 13, 2025

BY ROBIN MIMNA, The West Volusia Beacon

BEACON PHOTO/ROBIN MIMNA;THE START OF A BEAUTIFUL BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP — Stephanie Sousa and Nicole Perry, alongside local leaders and the community — including the DeLand and GreaterWest Volusia Chamber of Commerce and President Michael Culbertson

On Feb. 6, the DeLand and Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at Northwest Square to welcome a new local business: Bernard’s Market. Organized by Chamber Event Coordinator Peggy Smith, the event was a celebration of community and a passion for great food. Local leaders, residents and fellow business owners gathered to support co-owners Stephanie Sousa and Nicole Perry as they celebrated their new neighborhood grocery store.

Michael Culbertson, president of the Chamber, shared words of encouragement during the ceremony. “You have our back, and we have your back,” he said. “We look forward to helping your business grow.”

A neighborhood market with a personal touch

Bernard’s Market is more than just a grocery store — offering a selection of specialty goods, fresh produce and unique products. The market provides imported and hard-to-find groceries, locally sourced staples, deli meats, cheeses and fresh produce. It also serves Centro Tea Co., a locally recognized brand.

For Sousa and Perry, food has always been a passion.

“We’re food nerds,” Sousa laughed. “We grocery-shop for fun. At least once a month, we used to drive to Orlando just to stock up on international groceries. We thought, why not bring that diversity here to DeLand?”

Their goal is to offer high-quality products while creating a welcoming space for the community. Whether customers are looking for everyday essentials like eggs, milk and bread or something more adventurous like imported snacks and specialty items, Bernard’s Market delivers a unique shopping experience.