Before he was a city councilman or mayor pro tem, Devlin Cleveland was in the landscaping business. When he decided to seek a new career, he went to school: ice cream school.

“We learned the whole business, learning how to use the machines and how to make our own ice cream. It was exciting because we learned that whatever we could imagine, we could make,” Cleveland said, adding that the Sour Cream and Onion ice cream that was made was surprisingly good. “There’s a science to it and it still may be an acquired taste.”

After ice cream school, Cleveland attended a similar coffee school and was soon ready to set up shop. Located at 22 E. Main St. in Hampton, Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee started making a name for itself quickly. Cleveland started making Banana Pudding ice cream on day one and seven months later took third place in a Flavor of the Year competition at an ice cream convention. The delectable delight has been a mainstay on the menu ever since. Other popular flavors include Key Lime Pie, Strawberry Cheesecake, Lemon Crunch, Coffee Crunch, and Cookie Monster.

Cleveland moved to Hampton in 2007 and decided to run for a seat on the Board of Commissioners in 2020. His campaign was unsuccessful, but he learned a lot. The following year he ran for Hampton City Council and won a seat. He currently serves as Mayor Pro Tem for Hampton and also serves as chair of the Hampton Development Authority.

“I saw the city evolving and wanted to help,” Cleveland said. “I believe we can keep the hometown feel, while also continuing to grow and support local businesses.”

In the three years since Welcome Home opened its doors, the business and its reputation has grown. Not only is it a great place for individuals and families to get out and enjoy a treat, but it is an economic engine as it provides jobs as well. There are six employees at Welcome Home and they are part of the Hampton High School work study program. The students do get paid and are learning valuable skills about collaboration and leadership that they can take to college and their careers.

The official anniversary of Welcome Home is April 1 but area residents can expect many more activities throughout the year including ice cream classes, game nights, and more.

Welcome Home does offer party packages and catering and can even bring an ice cream cart to your event.

Cleveland hopes to continue to watch his business and Hampton grow. The father of three and grandfather of four plans on continuing to grow as well, potentially running for other offices.

“I love this area and I see unity in community,” Cleveland said. “I live here and work here, so I think it is also important to invest here.”

For more information on Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee, call 404.272.3069 or find them on Facebook.

By Mike Boylan