Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards
Celebrate the best businesses and organizations in the area with the Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards! We put the power in your hands, the local community, to nominate and vote for your favorite companies in more than 180 categories. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, this awards program is your chance to shine a spotlight on the establishments that make the North State area stand out.
Winners are revealed at our exclusive awards gala and to the public following the event in a printed winners section and online. So, rally your friends, family and community, and let’s make this year’s program the best ever!
The Latest: Voting has ended for this year’s program! Is your company a finalist and are you interested in attending the awards gala? Contact us! Tickets available for a limited time. Find out who won this year’s program on December 11.
How it Works
Each year, the Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards recognizes over 480 businesses and organizations, all thanks to community involvement! Completely driven by public participation, the program begins with nominations and voting determines the finalists and winners in each category.
Nomination Round
- It all begins with nominations. In this round, the public submits area businesses and organizations for consideration in each category, up to once a day. Users who nominate their favorites in 25 or more categories will be entered to win a $250 gift card!
Voting Round
- After nominations, the top companies in each category move on to the voting round. Here, users can vote up to once a day for their favorites to determine the winners! Another $250 gift card is up for grabs for those who vote in 25 or more categories.
Winners Announced
- Once voting ends, excitement builds as we prepare to reveal the winners! At the awards gala, we announce the businesses and organizations that have earned the most votes in each category. Results are shared with the public after the event.
The Finalists
Voting has ended and here are the finalists in the 2025 Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards. These companies are among the best in the area, but who won? Find out soon when we reveal the winners! Finalists, it’s time to celebrate and spread the word about your accomplishment. Contact us to learn how you can get tickets for the awards gala and advertising packages to reach your audience and spread the word about your achievement.
Beauty & Health
- Active Physical Therapy
- Angela Batini, M.S. Audiology
- Ash & Brass
- Blush Salon
- Branded Babes Beauty Bar
- Bree Kraayenbrink- Blush Salon
- Bryan G. Crum, MD – Shasta Eye Associates
- Burch Physical Therapy
- California Family Medical Group
- Carrie Stringer-Ash and Brass
- Cheryl Serr, MD – Amber Health Care for Women
- Children’s Dentistry of Redding
- Chiropractic First
- Cookies Redding
- Cosh Chiropractic Care & Wellness Center
- Costco Hearing Aid Center
- Curtis SF Wong, MD-Curtis SF Wong, MD, Inc.
- Dignity Health – Mercy Medical Center
- Dr. Randy Tate-Centre For Facial Plastic Surgery
- Dubz Barbershop
- Integrity Medical Center
- Intentional Wellness Center
- Interim HealthCare of Redding CA
- Jim Howard-Transformation Health & Fitness
- Julie Gussenhoven, OD-Doctor of Optometry
- Key Esthetics Waxing Studio
- Kys Beauty Bar
- Legends Barbershop
- Madi Does Hair -Branded Babes Beauty Bar
- Maximilian Von Malotky, MD- Summit Plastic Surgery
- MD Aesthetics
- Medical Home Care Professionals
- Mitchell Marti, OD- Enterprise Optometry Group
- Nailsbyjules530
- Nicole Rempfer -Dutchie FIT
- Northstate Dental
- Nue Skin Beauty
- Orchard Nutrition Center
- Perfect Union Shasta Lake
- Prestige Urgent Care
- Redding Rancheria Tribal Health Center
- Redding Rancheria Tribal Health System
- Redding Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork
- Rene Williams, MD- Generations of Women
- Renew Skin Solutions
- Robin King- Curves
- Samuel D. Van Kirk, MD-Sole Practitioner
- Shasta Family Dentistry
- Shasta Kids Dentistry
- Shasta Lake Physical Therapy
- Soothe By Samantha
- Sundial Collective
- The Nail Boutique – Shelly Herod
- The Spot Barber Lounge
- Top Notch Wax Lounge
- UpState Hearing Instruments
- Urban Retreat Day Spa
- Vertical Chiropractic
- VIP Nails
- Zufall Caring Dentistry
Dining
- 2 Guys and a Grill
- Anthony’s Mediterranean Bar & Grill
- Bartels Giant Burger
- Becca’s Cafe
- Beni’s California Cuisine
- Black Bear Diner
- Black Rose Coffee & Tea
- Bonsai Sushi Fusion
- Cafe Paradisio
- Casa Ramos Méxican Restaurant
- Casa Rios Grill
- Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
- Champa Garden Restaurant
- Chicken Shack
- Chick-fil-A
- Cinders Wood Fired Pizza
- Cold Stone Creamery
- Cookies & Yogurt
- Country Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery
- Country Organics
- CR Gibbs
- Damburger
- Deja Vu Restaurant
- Dill’s Deli
- Don’s Sandwich Shop & Deli
- Doughboy Donuts
- Fratelli’s Pizza Parlor
- From The Hearth Kitchen and Pie Shop
- Fusion Lounge
- Giff’s Steakburger
- GoodTimes Pizza & Things
- Greek Shack
- Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant
- Heavenly Donuts
- Holiday Market
- In-N-Out Burger
- Jack’s Bar & Grill
- Jack’s Donuts
- Julianita’s Mexican Food
- Kaleidoscope Coffee Company
- Karline’s Restaurant And Bar
- Kobe Seafood & Steakhouse
- Kobes
- Licata Catering
- Lulu’s Eating & Drinking
- Market Street Blade and Barrel
- Mulligan’s Bar and Restaurant
- Nello’s Place
- New China
- New China Restaurant-Eureka Way
- Odell Craft Barbecue
- Old Mill Eatery & Smokehouse
- Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
- Oriental Express
- Peter Chu’s Skyroom
- Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen
- Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen Redding
- RAW
- Rose Garden
- Sandwichery
- Smokin’ Joes
- Sublime Cake Design
- Taste & See Creamery
- Thai Hut
- The Lighthouse
Entertainment & Leisure
- 106.1 X Redding’s Rock
- 1460 AM KCNR
- 97.3 Q97 – KNCQ Today’s Country
- Anderson River Park
- Brain Battle Trivia Night
- Brandon Bauman- Redding Performing Arts Center
- Bucky- Bucky Dun-Gun
- Cascade Theatre
- Casino Poker Club
- Castle Lounge
- Doni Chamberlain-A News Cafe
- Gaia Hotel & Spa
- Gover Ranch Events
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Honeybee Festival
- Jack Potter, Jr. -Redding Rancheria
- Jake Easy-Easy Events
- Jeremy Ryan Band
- Jesse Eberle-Real Prop Management
- Keli Saam-Action News
- Kool April Nites
- Lake Shasta Caverns
- Lance Michael Cornwell Band
- Marian Morgan-Hunt Photo & DJ
- Matrix Cards & Games Adventure League
- Matrix Cards and Games
- Mike Krueger – Weather NorCal
- Monroe’s Nightclub & Karaoke
- Nala Kathleen
- Oasis Fun Center
- Old City Hall Arts Center
- Rare Air Trampoline Park
- Redding Civic Auditorium
- Redding Garden of Lights
- Redding Performing Arts Center
- Riverfront Playhouse
- Rolling Hills Casino and Resort
- Shasta County Arts Council
- Shasta County Fair
- Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge
- Strawberry Festival -Cottonwood
- TBS Ranch
- The Art Hunger Gallery
- Turtle Bay Exploration Park
- Viking Skate Country
- Whiskeytown Lake
- Win-River Resort & Casino
- Win-River Resort & Casino: Overtime Lounge
Finance
- AGT CPAs and Advisors
- Bank of America
- Chris Hall, AAMS™, CPFA™ – Redding Financial Advisors
- Edward Jones – Financial Advisor: Stacy L Pohlmeyer, AAMS®
- Evanhoe Kellogg & Company CPA’s, Inc.
- Golden 1 Credit Union
- Members 1st Credit Union
- Members 1st Credit Union: Investment & Planning
- NorCal Accounting Solutions
- Plumas Bank
- Redding PrimeLending Mortgage Lender
- Sierra Central Credit Union
- Tri Counties Bank
- US Lending Co
Kids & Education
- California Dance Company
- Columbia Lions Preschool
- Dance Depot
- Enterprise High School
- Gateway Unified School District
- Kelly’s Martial Arts
- LCC: Little Country Church-Country Christian School K-8
- Redding Christian School
- Redding Collegiate Academy: Public Charter School
- Redding Performing Arts Center
- Redding Rancheria Headstart
- Rice Brothers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Scott Halsey’s Kenpo Karate
- St. Joseph Catholic School
- Terresa Family Child Care
- University Preparatory School: Public Charter School
Pets
- Brink Veterinary Clinic, Inc.
- Cottonwood Veterinary Clinic & Cottonwood Small Animal Clinic
- Happy Tails
- Lucky Doo’s
- PetSmart
- Puppy Love Grooming
- The Modern Pup
- Treats Natural Pet Marketplace
- VCA Asher Animal Hospital
Services
- A & A Prestige Cleaners
- Addy Solar & Electric
- Affordable Hot Tubs
- Amazing Grace Media
- American Door Company
- Anderson’s Landscape and Irrigation Repair
- Anje Walfoort – American Real Estate
- Authority Property Management
- B&C Landscaping and Pavers
- Barr and Mudford
- Bay Style Tile
- BB Cleanings
- Beacon Fire Alarm & Security, Inc.
- Big Time Pest Control
- Blind Master
- Brandon Storment- Barr & Mudford
- Budget Blinds of Redding
- Bush’s Vivid Painting
- California Safety Company, Inc.
- Catie Barr-Barr & Mudford, LLP
- Ceramic Designs by Ron Green
- Cottonwood Custom Mirror and Glass
- Curated
- Custom Plumbing
- Davis Excavating, Inc.
- Design Time & Tile
- Dominant Ink
- Dulce’s Cleaning Service
- Edgewood Plumbing
- EllisLaine Marketing
- Exodus Farms
- Faithworks
- Forest Design
- Forest Design Landscaping
- Gold Star Realty & Property Management
- Guiton’s Pool & Stove Center, Inc.
- Hansens Moving & Storage
- Hartnell Cleaners
- Haven Humane Society
- Hilltop Springs Senior Living
- Hufft Solar, Inc.
- Jason Sanchez Heating & Air
- Jennifer Lindstrand – Lindstrand Insurance Agency
- Josh Barker Real Estate
- Just Ducky Painting and Drywall Repair
- Justin Arel-Presleigh & Arel Law Office
- Justin Cartwright – Justin Cartwright Real Estate Team
- King Law Offices
- Lain’s Carpet Care
- Landsem Law Office
- Lavender Hills Assisted Living House 3
- Lee’s Moving
- M4 Construction
- Majestic Builders
- Majestic Builders – Patio Covers, Decks, Remodels, Custom Home Builder
- Maria Jeantet – Shasta Living Real Estate
- Matrix Cards and Games
- McEntire Landscaping, Inc.
- Michelle Marks – State Farm Insurance Agent
- Mike Littau Goosehead Insurance
- Moule’s California Glass, Inc.
- Nicolet Glass Centers
- Night Flight Media House
- Nor-Cal Garage Door, LLC
- North State Security
- Northwest Homes
- Oasis Heating & Air
- Parker & Honey Landscape
- Pine Street Cleaners
- Precision Painting
- Pro Garage Doors
- Professional Exterminators
- R.A.W. Roofing
- Real Property Management, Inc.
- Servpro of South Shasta County
- Shade Sisters
- Shasta Heating & Air Conditioning
- Shasta Living Real Estate
- Sincere Tattoos
- Special Touch Carpet Cleaning
- Sundial Pool and Spa
- The Cleaning Crew, LLC
- The Temple Tattoo
- The Upstated Home
- Tugwell Roofing Co.
- Twice As Nice Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
- Two Men and a Truck Moving
- Wagner Design and Build
- Wallner Plumbing Heating & Air
- Willow Springs Memory Care
- Woods Pest Control, Inc.
- WSC – Solar & Roofing
- WSC Solar & Roofing
- Young & Co
Shopping
- A Golden State-Flagship Dispensary
- Anderson Florist
- Anderson’s Fine Jewelry
- Appliances Direct
- Apricot Lane Boutique
- Axner Excavating
- Barnes & Noble
- Best Price Furniture & Mattress
- Cal’s Books
- Carmona’s Appliance & Mattress Center
- Chuck’s Coin
- Dandelion
- Design Time & Tile
- Factory Flooring Outlet
- Field’s Jewelers
- Flooring America of Redding
- Floranthropist
- Four Winds Jewelry
- Gold Leaf Nursery
- Holiday Market
- Julia’s Fruit Stand
- Kuebler’s Furniture
- Linda’s Hallmark Shop
- Loucks Landscape Supply
- Lowe’s Home Improvement
- Matrix Cards and Games
- Nichols Appliance & Mattress Center
- Oak Tree Furniture
- Orchard Nutrition Center
- Palo Cedro True Value Hardware
- Perfect Union Shasta Lake
- Plantable
- Redding Florist
- Shop Around the Corner Books
- Sketch and Press
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Sundial Collective
- The Pretty Thistle Boutique
- Trader Joe’s
- Trends Vintage Marketplace & Co
- Valley Ace Hardware
- When Pie Meets Bread
- WinCo Foods
- Wyntour Gardens
Spirits
- BevMo!
- Bob’s Liquors
- Castle Lounge
- Final Draft Brewing Company
- Hops & Vines
- Liquor Barn
- Lulu’s Eating & Drinking
- Moseley Family Cellars
- Mulligan’s Bar and Restaurant
- Mulligan’s Bar and Restaurant
- Pourboys Tapyard
- RAW
- Riddick’s Sports Pub
- The Grape Escape
- Vintage Public House
Sports & Fitness
- Anderson Family Fitness
- Balance Yoga Center
- Chain Gang Bike Shop
- Club Tucker Golf Course
- Gold Hills Golf Club
- Lit from Within
- Redding Sports, Ltd.
- Riverview Country Club
- Strive for Epic
- Sun Oaks
- The Bike Shop
- The Shasta Family YMCA
Top Employers
- AAA
- Apex Technology Management
- Black Bear Diner Redding
- Blue Shield of California (Redding Office)
- Ceramic Designs by Ron Green
- Matrix Cards and Games
- Members 1st Credit Union
- Redding Rancheria
- Shasta County Office of Education
- Shasta Heating & Air Conditioning
- Win-River Resort & Casino
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
- 530 Auto Repair
- Anderson Automotive
- Coachmaster Auto Body and Paint
- Crown Motors
- Hild Collision Center
- J’s Auto and Diesel Repair
- Lithia Toyota of Redding
- Miller Collision Center
- Nicolet Glass Centers
- Park Marina Motors
- Platinum Auto Glass
- Quick Quack Car Wash
- Redding Kia
- Redding Subaru
- Safelite AutoGlass
- SasqWash Car Wash
- Tay-Van Car Wash
* Top Three list subject to change based on program or category eligibility criteria.
The Categories
There are more than 180 categories in the Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards! This list has been curated to best represent the North State area. Nominate or vote in any or all of these categories during their respective period. Have a category suggestion? Complete the form at the bottom of this section.
Beauty & Health
Barber Shop
Cardiology Clinic/Hospital
Chiropractic Clinic
Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Center
Dental Practice
Eye Care Professional
Facials
Family Practice
Hair Salon
Hair Stylist
Hearing Aid/Hearing Specialist Center
Holistic Medicine
Home Health Care Services
Massage Therapy
Medical Marijuana Dispensary
Medical Spa
Nail Salon – Manicure/Pedicure
OB/GYN
Pediatric Dental Clinic
Personal Trainer
Pharmacy/Drug Store
Physical Therapy Clinic
Spa
Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic
Dining
All-Around Restaurant
Asian Food
Bakery
BBQ
Breakfast
Burger
Caterer/Catering Company
Chinese Food
Country Cooking
Curbside/Carry Out/Drive-Thru
Dessert
Diner
Dining Experience
Doughnut Shop
Early Bird Dinner
Fine Dining
Fried Chicken
Greek Food
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/Frozen Custard
Italian Food
Japanese Food
Local Coffee Shop
Lunch
Meal for the Money
Mexican Food
New Restaurant
Outdoor/Patio/Rooftop Dining
Pizza
Romantic Restaurant
Seafood Restaurant
Steakhouse
Sub/Deli/Sandwich Shop
Sushi
Thai Food
Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free Food
Wings
Entertainment & Leisure
Art Gallery
Birthday Party Venue
Boutique Hotel
Casino
Columnist/Reporter
DJ – Event/Wedding
Event – Local
Event Venue
Family Amusement
Festival/Fair
Karaoke Bar
Live Music Artist/Group/Band
Live Music/Concert Venue
Live Theater
Person of the Year
Place to Dance
Place to Worship
Radio Station – Local
Tourist/Seasonal Attraction – Local
Wedding Venue
Finance
Accounting Firm
Bank
Credit Union
Investment Firm
Mortgage Lending Company
Kids & Education
Child Care
Dance Studio/School
Karate/Martial Arts School
Pre-School
School – Private
School – Public
Pets
Emergency Veterinary Clinic
Pet Grooming Company
Pet Store
Services
Advertising/Marketing Agency
Assisted/Senior Living
Attorney
Backyard Construction Company
Bathroom/Kitchen Design/Remodeling Company
Blinds/Shutters Company
Carpet/Rug Cleaning Company
Construction Managment
Custom Home Builder
Customer Service
Dry Cleaning Company
Garage Door Company
Heating/AC Service Company
Home Cleaning Service
Home Painter
Home Repair/Remodeling Company
Insurance Agent
Interior Design Company
Landscape Contractor (Company Name)
Law Firm
Lawn Care/Landscaping Company
Moving Company
Non-Profit/Charity Organization
Pest Control Company
Plumbing Company
Property Management Company
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Company
Roofing Company
Security Company
Solar Service Company
Swimming Pool/Spa
Tattoo Studio
Window Company
Shopping
Antique/Coins & Collectibles Store
Appliance Store
Book Store – New/Used
Boutique
Cannabis Dispensary
Flooring Store
Florist Shop
Furniture Store
Garden Center/Nursery
Gift Shop
Grocery Store
Hardware/Home Improvement Store
Healthy/Organic Food Store
Jewelry Store
Landscape Supply Company
Produce
Spirits
Bar
Beer Selection – Restaurant/Bar
Beer Store
Craft Beer Store
Happy Hour
Sports Bar
Wine Bar
Wine Selection – Restaurant/Bar
Sports & Fitness
Bicycle Store
Fitness Center/Gym
Golf Course
Yoga/Pilates Studio
Top Employers
SPONSORED BY
Employer – 1-100 Employees
Employer – 101-500 Employees
Employer – 500+ Employees
Place to Work
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
Auto Body/Collision Center
Auto Dealer Service Department
Auto Glass Repair Company
Auto Repair Shop
Car Wash/Detail Shop
New Car Dealership
Used Car Dealership
Suggest a Category
We love your category suggestions! Submit yours using the form below and it will be considered for next year’s awards program. By submitting you agree to our privacy policy. *Indicates required field.
Awards Gala
The Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards culminate in the announcement of the winners! This takes place at an exclusive awards gala, open to finalists and their guests. The event begins with a cocktail hour featuring entertainment, followed by dinner and the awards presentation. The gala not only celebrates the winners’ achievements but also provides an excellent opportunity for networking and recognition. Tickets must be purchased at least three weeks before the event. Attire for the event is business/cocktail.
Awards gala is open to program finalists and guests only.
Join us December 11, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Redding.
Winners Section
Winners of the Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards are revealed to the public in a printed winners section. This commemorative, printed section will publish in the Record Searchlight and will include all of the finalists and winners, along with their details. This guide is an excellent resource to keep on hand throughout the year for discovering the best businesses and organizations in the North State area. Winners are also posted on this website after they are announced, where they can be easily accessed.
Publishes December 14, 2025 in the Record Searchlight.
Winners and finalists are also posted online after they are announced.
Business Resources
The Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards provides a one-of-a-kind platform for businesses and organizations to showcase their brand. By leveraging targeted digital ads, email marketing, DIY templates, and other marketing tools, companies can elevate their visibility during the nomination and voting phases, and beyond. It’s important to note that while these advertising opportunities can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes.
Unique opportunities to promote your business or organization.
Leverage our program to gain exposure and attract new customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go to nominate a company and what are the guidelines?
You can nominate a company once a day per category when the nomination round is active. To do so, navigate to the appropriate section and category on the ballot and type the complete company name. Once your choice has been input, complete the registration form (on your first visit) with your information and click the "Nominate" button. You can then continue nominating in other categories. There is no "Submit" button. If you nominate in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. To nominate again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function that sends you an easy login email to sign back into the ballot.
I do not see a category that fits the company I would like to nominate. Can it be added?
Our categories are curated to best fit the area. However, each year we add and remove categories to drive innovation and rejuvenate the program. Once nominations have begun for that year's program, categories cannot be changed. If you would like us to suggest a category for future programs, please submit it here. When considering categories, we take several factors into account including popularity, community participation and the number of eligible companies in the area in that category.
My company made the top five in the nomination round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top five! This means you were in the top five by nominations in your category of all companies submitted during the nomination round. Your company moves on to voting where the winners are selected. Improve your chances by encouraging your fans to vote for you and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help!
How do I vote in the program and can I "write in" a company during this round?
The nominees in the voting round consist of the top five companies from the nomination round. New companies cannot be added at this stage. To vote for a company, go to its category on the ballot and select “Vote” near its name. You can vote once a day per category when the voting round is active. After selecting the nominee, complete the registration form (on your first visit) and click the "Vote" button. You can then continue voting in other categories. If you input a company, your vote has been recorded. There is no "Submit" button. If you vote in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. If you participated in nominations, you must re-register, but your information will be carried over. To vote again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function to sign back in.
My company made the top three in the voting round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top three! This means you were in the top three by votes in your category of all companies submitted during the voting round. You may even have won! Stay tuned to the big reveal when winners are announced and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help you spread the word about your accomplishment!
My company's basic information is incorrect on the ballot. What can I do and how do I get my company details added to my listing?
We do our best to ensure company information is correct but acknowledge that errors can occur. If you notice any inaccuracies in your company’s basic information, contact us through the Additional Questions form below and let us know what is wrong and we will correct the issue. Maximize your company's visibility with our enhanced listings and advertising packages. Enhanced listings offer a comprehensive display of your company’s information, including your company logo. Additionally, our advertising packages enable you to actively promote your company and encourage the community to nominate or vote for you. contact us through the Business Resources section of this website now to get started!
How are companies alerted that they made the top five after nominations or top three after voting?
We diligently reach out by phone or email to each company to notify them of their top five or top three status, utilizing information collected from their websites, social media, or map listings. You should expect to hear from someone representing your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett. Be cautious of inbound calls from individuals not affiliated with these companies. You can always verify communications by contacting us through the Additional Questions form below. The top three list is also posted on this website after the ballot has been reviewed. If you haven't heard from us and want to know if your company made it to the top five or top three, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website so that we can provide you with important program details and information on how our advertising products can help you promote your company!
How many times can I nominate or vote in the program and how do you prevent fraud?
You can nominate or vote in the program during their respective periods once a day per category using one individual email address. Our platform employs CAPTCHA technology to prevent bots and tracks IP addresses to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure accurate results. For more information, see our complete participation rules on our ballot pages.
How can my company increase its chances of being nominated or voted for in the program?
What comes with being named a finalist or winner in the program?
Winning or placing among the top three finalists in the Community's Choice Awards is a prestigious achievement that reflects a company's excellence in its respective industry. The winners and finalists are published online and publicized to the community, serving as a trusted resource for people searching for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. Companies can also showcase their accomplishments by using our free winner and finalist logos and purchasing plaques and other awards materisal that proudly display their achievement. Contact us through the Additional Questions form below to learn more about these opportunities.
Does this program require payment in exchange for participation, or is it solely based on the community’s nominations and votes?
Participation in the Community's Choice Awards is completely free of charge! We believe that every eligible company should have the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding products, services and contributions to the community without any financial barriers. While we do offer advertising opportunities that can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes. Company self-promotion with owned marketing channels to solicit nominations and votes are encouraged!
How do I find out the finalists and winners of this year's program?
After the program ends and we contact the finalists, we announce the winners and finalists online. Our online Winners Guide includes company details, making it a trusted resource for those looking for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. So, the next time you are searching for a new pizza place, need a reliable plumber, or are shopping for clothing, make sure to check out our guide for some top-notch recommendations!
What happens at the awards gala and where and when will it be held?
The awards gala is a special night where local business leaders and community residents gather to find out the winners of the awards program! It serves as a platform to celebrate the winners' achievements and an excellent opportunity for networking and recognition. The event features a hosted cocktail hour, a complete sit-down dinner with entertainment and the awards presentation. The attire for the event is business/cocktail and parking is available at the venue. Please refer to the Awards Gala section on this page for this year's event date and venue information. Below is the evening's timeline. contact us through the Additional Questions form below for additional event information. Join us for the business event of the year!
- 6:00 p.m. - Doors Open
- 6:00-7:00 p.m. - Cocktail Hour
- 6:45 p.m. - Dinner is Served
- 7:30 p.m. - Awards Program Begins
- 8:30 p.m. - Awards Program Concludes
Who is invited to the awards gala and who can they bring? How can I get tickets or RSVP?
The awards gala is restricted to the top three program finalists only and their invited guests, typically including business partners, employees, family, and supporters. Children may attend, but it is not recommended, as alcohol is served and there is no child-priced ticket or meal option available. Our advertising packages include event tickets at different amounts, depending on the package. If you are interested in tickets to the awards gala only, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website at least four weeks prior to the event. Ticket holders will receive an RSVP request to the email address provided to us to confirm attendance and select meal preferences for their party. If you do not receive an RSVP email, contact us through the Additional Questions form below. Space is limited, so we recommend getting your tickets as soon as they become available.
Will everyone in our party attending the awards gala be seated together?
We make every effort to seat parties together at our awards gala. Typically, seating is arranged at tables of ten. If your party has fewer than ten guests, we will seat you with other companies. If your party has more than ten guests, we will seat you at nearby tables with other companies to fill the remaining space. If you would like to be seated with a specific company or group of friends, please note it on your RSVP or contact us through the Additional Questions form below.
What is served at the awards gala and how do I provide my meal selections?
The awards gala begins with a champagne welcome and hosted bar. A complete dinner is served prior to the award ceremony, consisting of a salad, entrée, and dessert. Meat and vegan/vegetarian options are available for dinner. If you are attending the awards gala, you will select your meal preferences for your party when you RSVP. If you need more details about the dinner options, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below.
If my company wins our category at the awards gala, will I need to give a speech?
No speech is given if your company wins in your category. Winners will be asked to walk across the stage to accept their award, have their photo taken and confirm their information. Enjoy your time in the spotlight!
When will photos from the awards gala red carpet and event be posted?
Photos from the award gala's red carpet and event will be published on this website within approximately one week of the event. They are available to download at no charge. To download on desktop, right-click on the desired image and select "save image as" to save it to your computer. On mobile or tablet, press and hold the desired image and select "save image." Feel free to share your photos on social media to celebrate your accomplishment!
My company was selected as a finalist or winner. How can I get a plaque and other awards materials and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you will receive your window cling at the awards gala. Your plaque will be shipped after the event and arrive in six to eight weeks. If you did not purchase an advertising package or did not attend the event, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below for information on their status or how to purchase a plaque or other awards materials. Use caution with inbound communications to your business soliciting plaques. Unless they are associated with your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett, they do not have permission to use the logo and are likely fraudulent. Don't forget, you can also showcase your accomplishment by using our free winner and finalist logos.
When is next year's program and what can my company do until then to improve my chances?
Stay tuned to the How it Works section on this website to find out when next year's awards program will take place. Typically, the program follows a similar timeline each year. In the meantime, we encourage you to motivate your company's employees to deliver outstanding experiences to your customers. When customers are impressed by your service or product, they are more likely to recommend you and keep you in mind during the awards program. Thank you for your participation and support, and good luck next year!
Where do I go to nominate a company and what are the guidelines?
You can nominate a company once a day per category when the nomination round is active. To do so, navigate to the appropriate section and category on the ballot and type the complete company name. Once your choice has been input, complete the registration form (on your first visit) with your information and click the "Nominate" button. You can then continue nominating in other categories. There is no "Submit" button. If you nominate in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. To nominate again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function that sends you an easy login email to sign back into the ballot.
I do not see a category that fits the company I would like to nominate. Can it be added?
Our categories are curated to best fit the area. However, each year we add and remove categories to drive innovation and rejuvenate the program. Once nominations have begun for that year's program, categories cannot be changed. If you would like us to suggest a category for future programs, please submit it here. When considering categories, we take several factors into account including popularity, community participation and the number of eligible companies in the area in that category.
My company made the top five in the nomination round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top five! This means you were in the top five by nominations in your category of all companies submitted during the nomination round. Your company moves on to voting where the winners are selected. Improve your chances by encouraging your fans to vote for you and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help!
How do I vote in the program and can I "write in" a company during this round?
The nominees in the voting round consist of the top five companies from the nomination round. New companies cannot be added at this stage. To vote for a company, go to its category on the ballot and select “Vote” near its name. You can vote once a day per category when the voting round is active. After selecting the nominee, complete the registration form (on your first visit) and click the "Vote" button. You can then continue voting in other categories. If you input a company, your vote has been recorded. There is no "Submit" button. If you vote in 25 or more categories, you will be eligible to win the sweepstakes. If you participated in nominations, you must re-register, but your information will be carried over. To vote again on future visits, you can use the “magic link” function to sign back in.
My company made the top three in the voting round. What happens next?
Congratulations on your company making the top three! This means you were in the top three by votes in your category of all companies submitted during the voting round. You may even have won! Stay tuned to the big reveal when winners are announced and contact us through the Business Resources section of this website to see how our advertising packages can help you spread the word about your accomplishment!
My company's basic information is incorrect on the ballot. What can I do and how do I get my company details added to my listing?
We do our best to ensure company information is correct but acknowledge that errors can occur. If you notice any inaccuracies in your company’s basic information, contact us through the Additional Questions form below and let us know what is wrong and we will correct the issue. Maximize your company's visibility with our enhanced listings and advertising packages. Enhanced listings offer a comprehensive display of your company’s information, including your company logo. Additionally, our advertising packages enable you to actively promote your company and encourage the community to nominate or vote for you. contact us through the Business Resources section of this website now to get started!
How are companies alerted that they made the top five after nominations or top three after voting?
We diligently reach out by phone or email to each company to notify them of their top five or top three status, utilizing information collected from their websites, social media, or map listings. You should expect to hear from someone representing your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett. Be cautious of inbound calls from individuals not affiliated with these companies. You can always verify communications by contacting us through the Additional Questions form below. The top three list is also posted on this website after the ballot has been reviewed. If you haven't heard from us and want to know if your company made it to the top five or top three, please contact us through the Business Resources section of this website so that we can provide you with important program details and information on how our advertising products can help you promote your company!
How many times can I nominate or vote in the program and how do you prevent fraud?
You can nominate or vote in the program during their respective periods once a day per category using one individual email address. Our platform employs CAPTCHA technology to prevent bots and tracks IP addresses to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure accurate results. For more information, see our complete participation rules on our ballot pages.
How can my company increase its chances of being nominated or voted for in the program?
What comes with being named a finalist or winner in the program?
Winning or placing among the top three finalists in the Community's Choice Awards is a prestigious achievement that reflects a company's excellence in its respective industry. The winners and finalists are published online and publicized to the community, serving as a trusted resource for people searching for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. Companies can also showcase their accomplishments by using our free winner and finalist logos and purchasing plaques and other awards materials that proudly display their achievement. Contact us through the Additional Questions form below to learn more about these opportunities.
Does this program require payment in exchange for participation, or is it solely based on the community’s nominations and votes?
Participation in the Community's Choice Awards is completely free of charge! We believe that every eligible company should have the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding products, services and contributions to the community without any financial barriers. While we do offer advertising opportunities that can help boost a company’s chances, the decision ultimately rests with the public, as winners and finalists are determined through their votes. Company self-promotion with owned marketing channels to solicit nominations and votes are encouraged!
How do I find out the finalists and winners of this year's program?
After the program ends and we contact the finalists, we announce the winners and finalists online. Our online Winners Guide includes company details, making it a trusted resource for those looking for the best places to eat, shop, receive services and more. So, the next time you are searching for a new pizza place, need a reliable plumber, or are shopping for clothing, make sure to check out our guide for some top-notch recommendations!
Is there an awards ceremony or event for the program?
Currently, there is no formal awards ceremony for this program, but we do recognize and celebrate the achievements of participants by announcing the winners online after the completion of the program. As the program continues to grow and attract more participants, we may consider organizing an event to further enhance its prestige!
My company was selected as a finalist or winner. How can I get a plaque and other awards materials and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you should receive your plaque and window cling within six to eight weeks of the winners being announced. If you did not purchase an advertising package, please contact us through the Additional Questions form below for information on their availability or how to purchase a plaque and other awards materials. Use caution with inbound communications to your business soliciting plaques. Unless they are associated with your local newspaper, USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures, or Gannett, they do not have permission to use the logo and are likely fraudulent. Don't forget, you can also showcase your accomplishment by using our free winner and finalist logos.
When is next year's program and what can my company do until then to improve my chances?
Stay tuned to the How it Works section on this website to find out when next year's awards program will take place. Typically, the program follows a similar timeline each year. In the meantime, we encourage you to motivate your company's employees to deliver outstanding experiences to your customers. When customers are impressed by your service or product, they are more likely to recommend you and keep you in mind during the awards program. Thank you for your participation and support, and good luck next year!
Additional Questions?
Last Year’s Program Results
Here they are, the winners and finalists of the 2024 Best of North State Community’s Choice Awards. These companies were chosen by the community as the best in your area. We encourage you to support these local businesses and organizations by shopping, dining and using their services for a great experience. Keep an eye out for the program’s plaques and other awards materials displayed in their establishments.

