Episode One: DeWayne's


For our very first stop on Driving JoCo, we’re pulling into DeWayne’s Garden & Gift Center—a place where plants are plentiful, gifts are everywhere, and apparently you can spend way more time browsing than you originally planned. We’ll dig into the story behind this Johnston County favorite, meet the people who keep it growing, and find out why DeWayne’s has become much more than a place to pick up a few flowers and accidentally leave with a truckload of stuff you didn’t know you needed. So, buckle up, crank up the volume, and come explore Johnston County with us.
 

Turn One Stop Into A Shopping Weekend

DeWayne’s may have been our first stop on Driving JoCo, but it doesn’t have to be your only stop in Smithfield-Selma. With shopping, local restaurants, outdoor spaces, and attractions nearby, it’s easy to turn a visit to DeWayne’s into an overnight trip.

 

Suggested Itinerary

 

Start at DeWayne’s Garden & Gift Center

Kick off your shopping trip at DeWayne’s Garden & Gift Center in Selma, a locally owned shopping destination that has grown from a roadside produce stand into a destination for plants, seasonal décor, gifts, clothing and more. Give yourself plenty of time to browse — there’s a good chance you’ll find a few things you didn’t know you needed.
Stop for Lunch

When it’s time for lunch, you’ll find plenty of options around Smithfield-Selma. Choose from familiar national restaurants nearby or try something local, like San Marcos Mexican Restaurant, for Mexican favorites before continuing your shopping day.
Shop Carolina Premium Outlets

Next, make your way to Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield. With more than 75 stores featuring popular brands, there’s plenty more shopping ahead. Leave some extra room in your schedule (and your trunk) to explore the deals.
Dinner in Smithfield

After a full day of shopping, head into Smithfield for dinner. Grab a slice or Italian favorites at Massimo Pizza, or explore the flavors of India at Curry Corner.

After dinner, slow things down with a historic walk through Smithfield or along the Neuse river before checking into a nearby hotel in Smithfield or Selma for the night.
Add One More JoCo Experience

Before heading home the next morning, make time for one more Johnston County experience. Explore the life and legacy of a Hollywood icon at the Ava Gardner Museum, catch a show at The Rudy Theatre, or spend some time browsing the shops and antique stores of Downtown Selma.


Meet Our Host, Josh!

For Josh, every drive is an excuse to meet interesting people and hear the stories that make Driving JoCo Host JoshJohnston County special. As the host of Driving JoCo, he’s always looking for the next great story, the next hidden gem, and maybe the next place to grab a really good hot dog. His favorite part of Driving JoCo isn’t just the driving—it’s the people. Every episode is a chance to laugh, learn something new, and show why Johnston County is a true destination.

He’ll happily make you his co-pilot if you know a shortcut, your grandmother’s favorite restaurant, or where to find great barbecue in Johnston County.

He’s always debating the question that really matters—what belongs on a hot dog? He’s the kind of guy who’ll stop for homemade ice cream, stay for the conversation, and leave with three new friends.


Meet the Band, 2Digh4!

2Digh4 (pronounced “Two Die Four”) is a North Carolina-based country/rock/pop 2Digh4 Band Members Posed Shot in barnband founded in 2014 by brothers Landon and Aubrey Digh of Fuquay-Varina. Joined by bassist Mike Kachman and drummer Melody Digh, the band is known for its original music, energetic performances, and storytelling rooted in its Carolina home. Over the years, 2Digh4 has performed at the Carolina Country Music Festival, the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the NC State Fair, and Nashville’s legendary Bluebird Cafe.

Their original music has also found success on independent music charts and with Nashville publishers. Released in October 2025, their single “Carolina Crazy” brings that homegrown sound to Driving JoCo as the series’ theme song. Learn more about 2Digh4 and their music on the 2Digh4 website.