Best of Wilmington NC Service 2019
Allergist
Allergy Partners of Coastal Carolina
910-763-1661, allergypartners.com/coastalcarolina
With the motto “Get tested, get treated, get better,” Allergy Partners of Coastal Carolina is the only board-certified allergy specialist practice in the Cape Fear region. Allergy Partners offer allergy testing and allergy shots, along with cutting-edge immunotherapy and biologic therapy. With multiple offices in Wilmington, Hampstead, Supply, and Whiteville, Allergy Partners can help you comfortably manage your allergies and asthma.
Assisted Living Center
Cambridge Village
910-387-0465, cambridgevillageofwilmington.com
Situated on a pristine 10-acre site, Cambridge Village provides superior amenities, care, and services. Located within walking distance of Mayfaire Towne Center, Cambridge Village offers a welcoming community where residents feel at home. Cambridge Village’s list of indoor and outdoor amenities is impressive, including a wellness center, on-site spa, medical facilities, and a movie theatre. With one and two-bedroom apartments with multiple floor plan options and high end finishing, Cambridge Village offers independent living at its finest.
Audiologist
Audiology of Wilmington
910-679-8721, audiologyofnc.com
Better hearing begins with Audiology of Wilmington, a comprehensive provider of hearing health care services for children and adults. Audiology of Wilmington offers unique, individualized patient care with the goal of improving patients’ quality of life through enhanced hearing. They provide diagnostic hearing evaluations, hearing aid implementations, tinnitus treatment, and much more. With locations in Wilmington and Southport, Audiology of Wilmington is a trusted source of audiology care.
Bank
South State Bank
800-277-2175, southstatebank.com
Since opening as a small rural community bank in 1934, South State has grown into a large regional bank with locations throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. South State provides a wide range of personal banking, personal lending, and online and mobile banking services. For businesses, South State offers banking and lending services as well as treasury management options. Homeowners can also obtain mortgage loans at competitive rates through South State.
Barre Studio
Pure Barre
910-679-8171, purebarre.com/nc-wilmington
Pure Barre’s low-impact, full-body exercise classes have generated a strong following. Their core classes of 45-50 minutes use the ballet barre and other light equipment in small isolated movements with the goal of creating long, lean muscles. In addition to barre classes, they offer additional classes with a special focus on abs, legs, and glutes. Clients also report that the classes enable them to destress and practice mindfulness.
Bowling
Cardinal Lanes
910-799-3023, bowlcardinal.com
A fun family atmosphere and reasonable rates keep Wilmington bowlers coming back to Cardinal Lanes. With multiple bowling leagues from beginning “pee wee” to experienced adult, Cardinal Lanes prides itself on bringing the fun of bowling to everyone. Choose between a rate based on lane time or enjoy one of their nightly specials, such as the “Friday Night Fever,” an all-you-can bowl weekly event.
Credit Union
Corning Credit Union
910-392-6688, corningcu.org
As a member owned, not for profit financial organization, Corning Credit Union puts their customers first. Clients appreciate their accommodating, professional, and accessible service, along with their wealth of products at competitive interest rates. In June 2019, Corning opened a new 43,000-square foot facility on 17th Street to better serve the credit union’s membership.
Daycare
Children’s Learning Center
910-251-0003, clcwilmington.com
With two convenient locations – one on Darlington Ave. and one on Medical Center Dr. -- Children’s Learning Center provides a safe, fun environment where children learn and thrive. All CLC teachers, many of whom have taught for the school for numerous years, are committed to providing the best educational approach for each child’s growth and development. The curriculum takes a well-rounded approach to introducing children to the core subjects while offering enrichment opportunities such as art, music, and cooking.
Day Spa
Sage Salon & Spa
910-679-4377, sagespaandsalon.com
As the first certified green salon in Wilmington, Sage Salon & Spa provides a range of spa services in an earth-friendly environment. From hair to spa to nail services and more, Sage offers outstanding service using the finest, eco-friendly products. Staff are known for being knowledgeable and attentive to clients’ needs. With its serene environment, Sage is the perfect environment for a full day of spa pampering.
Dermatology
Wilmington Dermatology Center
910-256-4350, wilmingtondermatologycenter.com
With a focus on “experience, passion, and patient care,” Wilmington Dermatology offers general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology catered to the individual. Known for their skin care education, cutting-edge treatments, and personalized skin care regimens; Wilmington Dermatology remains “Wilmington’s source for comprehensive skin care.”
Dive Shop
Scuba Now
910-395-5111, scuba-now.com
Scuba Now has been providing the Wilmington area with all of their scuba needs since 2009. Scuba Now’s retail shop carries the latest brands in gear and accessories, including Atomic, Zeagle, and Bare. With a goal of making scuba diving affordable for all, Scuba Now offers a full open water scuba training program at an unbeatable price. In an effort to share their passion for diving with a wide audience, Scuba Now has provided more annual certifications than any other Dive Shop in the entire state.
Exercise Facility
O2 Fitness
910-239-1202, o2fitnessclubs.com
O2 was already a favorite of local fitness enthusiasts, but the company’s purchase of several former Gold’s Gym facilities only further solidified O2’s position as the area’s premier exercise facility. O2 now offers five locations throughout Wilmington, including Mayfaire Town Center, Hanover Center, Longleaf Mall, Porters Neck and Racine Drive. All state-of-the-art facilities provide a full range of classes including yoga, body combat, and cycling. Additionally, clients can opt for personal training and complete gym facilities. O2 prides itself on creating a welcoming, motivating, and fun environment to work out.
Eye Care Vision Center
My Eye Dr.
myeyedr.com
With five area locations, MyEyeDr. has become a trusted brand in the optometry industry. Comprehensive vision care services include routine eye exams, retinal imaging, contact lenses, and style tips. Check MyEyeDr.’s online “face shape” guide for prescription glasses that fit your visage. Known for friendly service and optometric expertise, My Eye Dr. remains a top choice for eye care in the Cape Fear region.
Financial Advisor
Merrill Lynch
910-265-7700, local.ml.com/wilmington_nc
Wilmingtonians trust the financial planning expertise of Merrill Lynch’s team of experienced financial advisors. From retirement planning to stock market investments to estate planning services, Merrill Lynch covers all your financial planning needs. Their service strategy is centered around identifying clients’ personal and professional goals as they work toward a plan to help customers achieve their long-term objectives. Merrill Lynch puts their vast industry knowledge and experience to work for their clients.
Flooring Company
Ed Newsome's Hardwood Floors
910-791-9000, newsomefloors.com
Ed Newsome's Hardwood Floors has been installing hardwood floors throughout the greater Wilmington area for more than 30 years. Recognized for excellent craftsmanship and service, Ed Newsome's Hardwood Floors provides full installation of unfinished and prefinished hardwood flooring, stair treads, risers, and much more. Company management fully informs clients throughout the entire process of installing, sanding, and finishing each project. Clients rave about the professionalism and prompt service of Ed Newsome's Hardwood Floors staff.
Florist
Julia's Florist
910-395-1868, juliasflorist.com
Since 1989, Julia’s Florist has been creating stunning floral arrangements for their Wilmington area customers. A family-owned business, Julia’s provides original, creative, fresh flowers. They also deliver outside of Wilmington, such as Brunswick and Pender counties, including same delivery of fresh-cut flowers and gifts. A repeat winner in this category, Julia's Florist is also one of the area’s top wedding florists with experienced wedding floral consultants on staff.
Frame Shop
The Frame Masters
910-799-6554, framemasterswilmingtonnc.com
The Frame Masters have been providing custom and ready-made frames for the Cape Fear region since 1970. The Frame Masters staff are creative artists able to create custom frames to showcase your photography, art, or other items. The right frame can transform a keepsake or piece of art, and The Frame Masters offers an incredible array of frames at affordable prices. Their experts can frame just about anything, including skateboard, golf clubs, and sports jerseys.
Funeral Home
Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Service
910-791-4444
Since opening their doors more than 80 years ago, Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Service has been planning thoughtful funeral and memorial services for the Wilmington community. Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Service develops funeral services that honor their clients’ loved one’s memory with dignity. The staff guides and supports clients through the process of creating a memorable funeral or memorial event.
Golf Course
Porters Neck Country Club
910-686-8180, portersneckcountryclub.com
For more than 25 years, Porters Neck Country Club has established itself as a challenging, well-designed golf course. This four star, Tom Fazio championship golf course has hosted many premier events, such as the Men’s and Women’s NC State Amateur, Mid-Amateur, and Senior Amateur tournaments. Porters Neck invites all golfers to experience “coastal golf at its finest”.
Heating and Air
Airmax Heating & Cooling
910-795-4359, airmaxhvac.com
A locally owned and operated company, Airmax Heating & Cooling specializes in providing reliable HVAC services throughout the Cape Fear region. With a focus on keeping the temperature of customers’ homes and businesses comfortable throughout the year, Airmax’s trained technicians provide heating and air installation, repair, and maintenance. Airmax Heating & Cooling serves customers seven days a week and also offers emergency and after-hours service.
Home Audio
Sound Decisions
910-392-1066, sounddecisions.biz
Sound Decisions, in business locally since 1989, can manage your residential audio needs, from state of the art home movie theatres for movie aficionados to distributed audio throughout your home for music lovers. To complement their audio work, Sound Decisions also provides home lighting and network systems. The expert team at Sound Decisions offer exceptional product knowledge and client service.
Homebuilder
RMB Building & Design
910-256-6326, rmbbuildinganddesign.com
Cultivating a “hands-on approach and attention to detail,” RMB Building and Design works with clients in all stages of drafting, designing, and constructing new homes. After 30 years of building homes in the Wilmington region, RMB’s portfolio includes hundreds of custom builds in Landfall, Porters Neck, and Wrightsville Beach. RMB’s success has led them to be a repeat winner in this category.
Home Cleaning Service
Eloise's Cleaning Services
910-294-9148, eloisecleans.com
As one of the area’s top cleaning businesses, Eloise's Cleaning Services provides customized cleaning services for homes, rentals, and vacation properties. Eloise’s website offers a convenient checklist and booking system – simply select the level of service you desire, book online, and leave the rest to them. The company’s cleaning staff undergoes a thorough 12-step hiring process to ensure they hire and maintain the most credible and hardworking staff.
Home Security
Holmes Security Systems
910-483-1196, holmeselectricsecurity.com
Originating as Holmes Electric more than 100 years ago, Holmes Security Systems remains a family owned business today. Holmes Security Systems focuses on providing a full range of residential and commercial security services, including indoor and outdoor cameras, video solutions, and real time monitoring. Customers appreciate the Holmes team’s product knowledge and efficient and courteous service.
Hospital
New Hanover Regional Medical Center
910-667-7000, nhrmc.org
The largest hospital system in the region, New Hanover Regional Medical Center provides a comprehensive array of healthcare services. For more than 50 years, NHRMC has served the residents of southeastern North Carolina through its main campus on 17th street, NHRMC Orthopedic Hospital on Wrightsville Avenue, NHRMC Emergency Department North on the Pender/New Hanover County border, and the management of Pender Memorial Hospital in Burgaw.
Hotel
Hotel Ballast
910-763-5900, hotelballast.com
After an $8.5-million facelift, the Hilton Wilmington Riverside became Hotel Ballast, part of the Hilton’s Tapestry line of upscale hotels, in 2018. Renovations to the hotel’s guest rooms, pool, and meeting space have transformed the waterfront hotel with a nod to the Port City’s maritime history. In addition to the staple Ruth’s Chris Steak House, diners also have the option of new restaurant Board and Barrel Coastal Kitchen, which features Southern culinary dishes. With a prime location in the heart of historic downtown, Hotel Ballast wins top honors for Wilmington’s best hotel this year.
Insurance Provider
Owens Insurance Agency & Financial Services Inc.
910-392-1985, stephenowensagency.com
Owens Insurance Agency provides a full range of personal and business insurance, from homeowners and auto insurance to commercial and watercraft insurance. Since founding the company in 2000, Stephen Owens has been building long-term relationships with Wilmington policyholders. Offering in-depth industry knowledge and exceptional service has kept Owens Insurance Agency at the forefront of the local insurance industry. Allow Owens Insurance Agency to ensure your assets, offering you peace of mind.
Kitchen & Bath
Markraft Cabinets
910-793-0202, markraft.com
For 30 years, Markraft Cabinets have been a market leader in the cabinet and countertop design and installation service industry. Markraft values providing high quality products, reasonable prices, and exceptional service. They don’t strive to merely satisfy customers -- they aim to amaze them, and their client reviews and referrals suggest they are exceeding this goal.
Landscaper
LowCountry Landscaping
910-200-1489, lowcountrylandscaping.com
LowCountry Landscaping wants to create and maintain your private outdoor paradise. They specialize in landscape design and installation, regular lawn maintenance, outdoor living spaces and hardscapes, and poolscapes. With clients from Leland to Carolina Beach, Southport to Hampstead, and all points in between, LowCountry Landscaping continues to beautify landscapes and outdoor spaces throughout southeastern North Carolina.
Marina
Seapath Marina and Yacht Club
910-256-3747, seapathyachtclub.com
Located on Motts Channel, Seapath Marina and Yacht Club provides the full gamut of marina services, including long term dockage, transient dockage, diesel fuel, boat slip rental, and much more. At Seapath you’ll find first class floating docks including 190 slips with 600 ft. of face dock. Seapath offers numerous amenities to make your docking experience more comfortable, such as shower facilities, laundry services, and a fully stocked store.
Mortgage Company
Union Home Mortgage
910-778-2375, unionhomemortgage.com
Legions of homebuyers have achieved homeownership with a mortgage from Union Home Mortgage. Committed to the belief that homeownership should be accessible for everyone, Union Home Mortgage provides a personalized experience involving finding the right mortgage options for clients’ individual situations. Union Home Mortgage attributes its success to the company’s core values of respect, open communication, and accountability.
Museum
Cameron Art Museum
910-395-5999, cameronartmuseum.org
A diverse collection of high-quality exhibits, engaging public programs, and unique educational opportunities make the Cameron Art Museum stand out as the region’s favorite museum. Browse the exhibits, take a class through the Museum School, or enjoy lunch in the beautiful café – there is a so much to experience at the Cameron.
New Neighborhood
Waterstone
910-233-8888, waterstonenc.com
Selected as a Showcase Community Partner by the homebuilders association, Waterstone is the only planned luxury waterfront community in the Wilmington area. Waterstone’s amenities include an inviting pool and clubhouse complete with outdoor grilling area, numerous scenic spots with natural and man-made ponds and streams, and walking trails and bike paths. Located in sought-after Porters Neck area, Waterstone is within walking distance of the county’s newest public elementary school, Porters Neck Elementary.
Orthopedics
EmergeOrtho
910-332-3800, orthowilmington.com
Formerly Ortho Wilmington, EmergeOrtho is a group of four independent orthopedic practices that teamed up to expand patients’ access to quality orthopedic care. Offering specialized care, physical therapy, and the latest technologies, EmergeOrtho can handle all your orthopedic needs.
Pest Control
Jay Taylor Exterminating
910-218-9454, jaytaylorexterminating.com
Founded by J.W. Taylor Sr. in 1941, Jay Taylor Exterminating is a family-owned business operated by four generations of the Taylor family. Jay Taylor Exterminating specializes in pest extermination and control with a focus on going above and beyond for their customer base. Whether contacting them for pest control, moisture control, or other services, clients can expect quick response times from highly trained technicians.
Pet Groomer
Trulie Dogs
910-681-0510, truliedogs.com
A full-service dog grooming salon and boutique, Trulie Dogs earns top honors in the pet-grooming category this year. After a warm welcome into the salon, dogs can enjoy free play during their stay at the spa. Personalized service and a sincere effort to ensure all dogs are happy during their experience at Trulie Dogs set the salon apart. Additionally, Trulie Dogs’ boutique carries dog food, treats, and accessories.
Pilates
Club Pilates
910-632-0690, clubpilates.com
Club Pilates boasts more than a full-body workout; the studio’s range of classes that challenge your mind as well as your body provide a rich, fulfilling experience. With class levels that range from foundation to mastery, Club Pilates instructors teach effective form and alignment for a complete mind-body connection. Classes include interval training, cardio pilates, stretching, and much more, and newcomers are welcome to try their first class for free.
Plumbing
Port City Plumbing Supply
910-452-2482, portcityplumbingsupply.com
A wholesale plumbing supply company, Port City Plumbing Supply is also open to the public and is Wilmington’s best-kept secret for high quality, affordable plumbing products. The showroom features a wide range of plumbing products with knowledgeable staff to answer all of your questions. Port City Plumbing Supply sells many top brands, including Allen, Lasco, C-Tech, and much more.
Pool Company
Pool Specialist
910-395-5699, wilmingtonpoolspecialist.com
Pool Specialist provides everything you need to keep your pool, hot tub, or spa running. In business locally since 1978, Pool Specialist carries supplies, equipment, and treatments to ensure excellent pool quality. Their showroom of products is conveniently located on Oleander Drive. Additionally, Pool Specialist handles ongoing maintenance and repair of residential, commercial, and community pools throughout the area.
Private School
Cape Fear Academy
910-791-0287, capefearacademy.org
Small class sizes, a 100% college acceptance rate, and a highly qualified, nurturing faculty have helped establish Cape Fear Academy as the premier independent school in southeastern North Carolina. With strong athletics, a thriving arts program, and challenging academics, Cape Fear Academy discovers and develops the individual potential of its students.
Salon/Barber for Men
Beale Street Barber Shop
910-769-0368, bealestreetbarbershop.com
A unisex barber shop, music venue, vintage retail store, and art gallery, it is safe to say that Beale Street Barber Shop is one of the most unique businesses in Wilmington. Taking its name from the original Beale Street in Memphis, Beale Street Barber Shop’s motto is “Come in and feel like a king”. Men can enjoy a haircut and old-fashioned shave complete with a cooling face wash, hot towels, and a facial moisturizer.
Salon for Women
Wisp Salon & Spa
910-799-7699, wispsalonwilmington.com
At Wisp Salon & Spa, clients can experience all the amenities of a large salon while still enjoying the comfort and relaxation of home. Wisp provides a full array of hair and spa services, including haircuts, color, and waxing. In addition, Wisp offers hair and makeup services for brides and wedding parties, ensuring a stress-free, perfect look. Wisp aims for each customer to leave with a smile and boost of confidence.
Tax Preparation
Suggs & Company P.A.
910-256-4885, suggscpa.com
A full-service accounting firm, Suggs & Company provides the gamut of tax management and accounting services for individuals and businesses. The company’s professional and personal service extends to estate and trust planning, corporate accounting services, and financial record advising and evaluation, among many other services. Applying their industry expertise, the team at Suggs & Company strives to meet each client’s needs and help them reach their financial goals.
Wedding Reception Venue
Airlie Gardens
910-798-7700, airliegardens.org
The most popular location for a wedding reception in Wilmington goes to Airlie Gardens, with the lawn surrounding the iconic Airlie Oak as the top spot for a reception within the gardens. This large, open area provides plenty of space for a tented reception complete with dinner and dancing under the oak. The Pergola Garden and Minnie Evans Bottle Chapel are also a great spots for wedding ceremonies. This idyllic outdoor location can hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions from March through October.
