We asked our readers to share some of the local businesses that make Oak City special, and we’re glad to say RALtoday readers know their stuff. These businesses come pre-recommended by the folks who share our fair city.
We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so you’ll want to come back for more, especially if you’ve enjoyed our Small Business Week and Today’s Best coverage. Submit your business or a business you love with our online form.
Food + Beverage
Willow House Coffee, 1004 S. Saunders St.
“With these changing and uncertain times, we feel it’s important now more than ever for people to have a safe space, where they can come as they are and grow with one another, in community.” — Owner Judy Lee
- This homey coffee shop is right near Dix Park, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before a day at Gipson Play Plaza. Plus, you can choose to buy an extra meal and pass it along to a community member in need.
Health + Wellness
Rewind Forward Therapeutic Services, virtual and in-person
“For over 10 years, I’ve supported clients through anxiety, depression, panic, major life transitions, family conflict, self-worth struggles, and those “What am I doing with my life?” seasons. At the core, most of us are longing for steadiness, clarity, and a sense of peace.” — Owner Jasmin Young-Bradshaw
- Jasmin offers a sliding scale pricing system for those without insurance.
bwellbaby, 3700 Barrett Dr., Ste. 100
“bwellbaby was started because I saw a gap in feeding and development services for very young babies and I wanted to bring a more proactive approach to therapy.” — Owner Nicole Bazinet
- New parents will feel confident + supported after meeting with bwellbaby.
Current Wellness, 219 S. East St.
“We don’t know of another business in the country that provides fitness and wellness in the integrative way that we do!” — Co-founder Brit Guerin
- This size-inclusive and diverse fitness studio includes a service of wellness practitioners. Brit recommends the music-fueled Rhythmic Release — not quite a dance class, not quite a fitness class.
Personal services
Assist your List, virtual
“I created a flexible, a la carte service model that allows Realtors to get out from behind their desks and back into the field, where real growth happens.” — Owner Katie Neumann
- This real estate transaction coordinator operates with a pay-per-transaction structure that supports Realtor success.
Raleigh Tax Partners, 300 S. Main St., Ste. 212, Office 42, Holly Springs
“We operate on a belief that financial services should be accessible to everyone at a reasonable and transparent cost.” — Owner Michael Anderson
- This non-judgemental team helps individuals and businesses keep more money in their pockets during tax season.
Retail
Hartwell, 620 W. South St.
“We celebrate all things local from musicians, artists, and makers of all kinds.” — Owner Caitlin Ward
- This private event space, retail market, and community space has a gorgeous rooftop deck with downtown views. Plus, they provide storefront retail space to local makers who receive 100% of their sales.
Travel + Leisure
Becoming rentABLE, virtual
“So many people that rented with us had the same story: It felt like it was near impossible to find a vacation rental that met their accessibility needs. I created Becoming rentABLE to make that search easier for families all across the US.” — Owner Lorraine Woodward
- This locally made database helps those with disabilities find short-term rentals across the US.
The MelodyMaker Entertainment, virtual
“We specialize in happy little faces!” — Owner Melody Scruggs
- Need face painting, balloon twisting, magic, staffed inflatables, or carnival games at your next event? Melody and her pro team have got you.
Whole Brain Escape, 410 Upchurch St., Apex
“My husband Rafael and I started Whole Brain Escape to bring our professional background in the video game industry to life in Apex, creating a space where families can trade screens for shared adventures.” — Owner Heather Chandler
- These expertly designed escape rooms are perfect for your fam, with themes like wild west, ancient Egypt, pirates, and dragons.
Editor Allie’s picks
Edge of Urge | Gift store
If this quirky store ever gets mentioned in the newsletter, it’s because of me. With an endless supply of fun items, it’s my go-to spot for a gift for a loved one or myself. Plus, Person Street Plaza has other great tenants like Wine Authorities, Yellow Dog, and So & So Books across the street.
TrunkShow | Vintage
This vintage store is a treasure trove. I especially love looking through all the home decor and finding unique pieces for my home. Plus, regular vintage markets bring in even more cool vendors.
Sound Off Records & Hi-Fi | Music
This woman-owned used music store is a lot of fun, and I love bringing in my less-loved vinyl and trading it in for new-to-me records. They even offer turntable repairs if your player has seen better days.
Psst — If you’d like to see a small business included in RALtoday, make sure to submit it here.
