Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards
Celebrate the best businesses and organizations in the area with the Best of Desert 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 160 categories. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, this awards program is your chance to shine a spotlight on the establishments that make the Palm Springs area stand out.
Winners are revealed at our exclusive awards gala and to the public following the event in a printed winners edition 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! Did your company make the top three? Interested in attending this year’s awards gala? Contact us!
How it Works
Each year, the Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards recognizes more than 480 businesses and organizations, and we couldn’t do it without community members like you! The awards program starts with public nominations, and from the top five nominees in each category, the voting round selects the finalists and winners.
Nomination Round
- It all begins with nominations. In this round, the public can submit 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 five in each category move on to the voting round. Here, users vote up to once a day for their favorites among the five to determine 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 Top Three
Voting has ended and here are the top three finalists in the 2024 Best of Desert 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
- A. PAUL S. BELL, DDS INC.
- Adriana Muñoz – Contour Dermatology
- Ailene Tenbrook – Thairapy Salon
- Allied Health Center
- Amigos Restaurant
- American Canyon Medical Group
- Angela D. Brown, M.D.
- Apple Valley Veterinary Clinic
- Aravind Madabhushi, M.D.
- Arosa
- Bellows Hearing Institute
- Bighorn Hearing Center
- Bliss Chakra Spa
- Bobby’s Health Food
- Brandi Houghton – Contour Dermatology
- Brendan Bonk, M.D. – La Femme Health and Beauty
- Brien O’Brien
- Bruce Ferguson, MD – Eisenhower Health
- CA. Medical Center
- Center for Orthodontics
- Clarks Nutrition & Natural Foods Market
- Contour Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Center
- Contour Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Center
- Costco
- CVS
- Desert Crossing Dental Group and Orthodontics
- Desert Gateway Dental Group
- Desert Hearing Rancho Mirage
- Desert Oasis Healthcare
- Desert Oasis Healthcare Home Health Services
- Desert Pediatric Dentistry
- Desiree Wesson – Sofonio: Board Certified Plastic
- Derakhsh Fozouni, MD La Femme Health and Beauty
- Diamond Valley Federal Credit Union
- Discount Tire
- Dr. Kim.
- Eisenhower Desert Orthopedic Center
- Eisenhower Medical Center
- Eisenhower Urgent Care Palm Springs
- Executive Urgent Care
- Emily K. Rekuc, DO – Caring for Women
- Emily Reyes – House of Style
- Francheska Rosbarsky – Boheme Aesthetics
- Guilty Tans
- Glossy Nails
- Go Healthcare
- Heather Lewis FNP-C, DNP – Go Healthcare Chiropractic
- JD Aesthetics
- Jessie Finch, NP – Desert Oasis Healthcare
- Kaiser Permanente Palm Desert Medical Offices
- Kailee K. Watson, OD Watson Vision
- King’s Great Buys Plus
- Le Star Tan
- Live Well Clinic
- Lovely Nails
- Mead Johnson Nutrition/Reckitt Benckiser Group
- Michael Will, MD – Will Family Medicine
- Milligan Dermatology
- Moving Mountains Wellness and Therapy
- Nature’s RX
- Nazemi Musculoskeletal Center
- Nazemi Musculoskeletal Center
- Oasis Medical Center
- Palm Springs Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
- Performance Bodyworks
- Renew Rancho Mirage
- Scot Ferreira Salon 119 & Beauty Spa
- Schantz & Moranda Orthodontic Care
- Sofonio: Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
- Sprouts – Palm Desert
- Sunny Dunes Barber Shop
- The Barber Shop
- The Plastic Surgery Institute
- The Spa at Séc-he
- Thairapy salon el paseo
- Teddy Dental
- True Serenity Spa
- UCR Health Coachella Valley Pediatric Center
- Walgreens
Dining
- A Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse
- Alps Village
- Aspen Mills Bakery & Café
- Athena Gyro
- Baby’s Marche
- Bill’s Pizza
- Blackbook
- Bubba’s Bones & Brews
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Brunch 101
- Cali Cafe-Sun City Palm Desert
- Castelli
- Chef Tanya’s Kitchen Palm Desert
- Churrasco Brazilian Steakhouse
- City Wok
- CV BBQ
- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana
- Elmer’s Restaurant
- Farm
- Felipe’s
- Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Palm Desert
- In-N-Out
- ITS TASTE OF INDIA
- IW Coffee
- Jelly Donut
- Johannes
- JOY at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
- Joyce’s Sushi
- Kobe Japanese Steak House
- Koffi Coffee
- Keedy’s Fountain & Grill
- Krispy Kreme – Rancho Mirage
- LG’s Prime Steakhouse
- Luna Mediterranean Grill
- Lizzy’s Premium Frozen Yogurt
- Lappert’s Super Premium Ice Cream Palm Desert | Sun City
- Lavender Bistro
- Mario’s Italian Cafe
- Monsoon Indian Cuisine
- Nest
- Nature’s RX
- Okura Robata Grill & Sushi Bar
- Otori sushi
- Pacifica Seafood Restaurant
- Papa Headz
- Peppers Thai Palm Springs
- Piero’s PizzaVino
- Plastic Surgery Institute
- Ruth’s Chris
- Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
- Sherman’s Deli & Bakery
- Spencer’s Restaurant
- Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill
- TKB Bakery & Deli
- Thai Smile
- Ty’s Chipotle Tacos
- Tyler’s Burgers
- Ultimate Fit
- Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe
- Wingstop
- Wildest
- My Thai
- Nature’s RX
Entertainment & Leisure
- Acrisure Arena
- Agua Caliente Casino
- Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage
- Arenas District
- Air Museum
- Big Mike Art – Gallery & Studio – Palm Springs
- Blackbook
- CINEMARK Century at the River and XD
- CINEMARK Century La Quinta and XD
- Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert
- Coachella Valley Repertory
- Dave and Busters
- DJ Chase Martinez – Chase Martinez Entertainment
- DJ Modgirl – Kellee McQuinn
- Dr. Stan Hill – Modern Men’s Chorus
- Evening Under the Stars
- Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
- Forever Marilyn Statue
- Gene ‘Razer G’ Howell – The Desert Brew
- Gino LaMont – Coachella Valley Firebirds
- Gil Ruttenburg – Honda of the Desert
- Hunters
- Jammin 99.5
- Jerry Steffen – KMIR weather
- John Taylor KGAY 106.5 FM
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel
- KGAY 106.5 FM
- Kee Gallery
- Lulu California Bistro
- Mary Lockrem Big 106.1
- Mary Pickford is D’Place
- Mary Strong NBC Palm Springs
- McCallum Theatre
- Neil’s Lounge
- Palms Springs Aerial Tramway
- Palms Springs Art Museum
- Palms Springs International Film Festival
- Palms Springs Pride
- Patrick Evans – 103.1 FM
- Patrick Evans – KESQ News Channel 3
- Peter Daugt – KESQ News Channel 3
- Red Dress Dress Red
- Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival
- Spencer’s Restaurant
- St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church
- Sun City Palm Desert
- The Dragon’s Den
- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
- The Nest
- The Old Polo Estate
- The Roost Lounge
- The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
- Tom Snyder – Animal Samaritans
- Trio
Finance
- ABEL KRIEGER & WILMETH CPAS
- Chase
- Charles Schwab
- Contempo lending
- Find A Good Accountant
- FirstBank
- Kneuer Mortgage Services
- Keystone Private Wealth
- Raymond James Charles Alfaro
- Remus Haste & Associates CPAs
- Wells Fargo Bank
Kids & Education
- Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City
- California State University San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus
- Center Stage Dance Studio
- College of the Desert
- Coachella Valley Boxing Club
- Dance with Miss Lindsay
- Dejitaru Karate Dojo
- Desert Christian Academy
- First School
- Hurricane Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Montessori School of the Desert
- Nellie N. Coffman Middle School
- Palm Desert High School
- Palm Valley School
- Six Blades JiujitSu
- The Academy of Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church
- Victor Valley College
- VXN Dance Studio
- Xavier College Prep
- Palm Springs High School
Pets
- Barking Beauties Dog Grooming
- Barkingham Pet Hotel
- Bones-N-Scones Palm Desert
- Emerson Pet Nutrition
- Super Mutts of El Paseo
Services
- ACME Moving and Storage
- Atria
- Animal Samaritans
- Adornment
- Bayshire
- BeSpoke Garage Designs
- Bennion Deville Homes
- Blair Heating & Air
- California Window & Door
- Castro Roofing
- Century Carpet & Upholstery Care
- Chandler Romero’s Delivery
- Chris W. Foster, Inc.
- Classic Cleaners
- Comfort Air
- Command One
- Desert Alarm
- Desert Best Friend’s Closet
- Desert Luxury Pools
- Desert Properties Realtors
- Desert Roof Concepts
- Equity Union
- Frazier Pest Control
- Frazier Pest Control, Inc.
- First Call Security and Sound
- Guralnick & Gilliland
- Hilda Zamora Zamora Law Boutique
- Hot Purple Energy
- Ira Liss – Coachella Valley Family Law Firm
- Jeff Rosenberg – HomeServices Insurance, Inc.
- Living Out
- Luxury Pools
- Mayra Perez – Integrity Agents Insurance Services Inc
- Marlene Ruttenberg – Desert Properties Realtors
- Michael C. Peterson – Arnold, Peterson & Criste
- Modern Home Inspection
- Modern Tile & Marble
- Nexxus Termite & Pest Solutions
- Patriot Lath and Plaster
- Palm Desert Law Group
- Palm Desert Tattoo Co.
- Palm Springs Mirror & Glass
- Pane in the Glass
- RB Roofing
- Remus Haste & Associates CPAs
- Rudy’s Termite & Pest Control
- Scott Histed Bennion Deville Homes
- Segovia
- Shea Homes
- Service Pros
- SBEMP LLP
- Sun City Palm Desert
- Sunlogix Energy
- Supreme Solar & Electric
- Timo’s Air Conditioning & Heating
- Timo’s A/C & Plumbing
- Two Strong Men and a Truck
- Vista Cove at Rancho Mirage
Shopping
- ACE Hardware
- Angel View Resale Store
- Bob Williams Nursery Inc.
- Bulldog Cannabis Dispensary
- Carpet Empire Plus
- D & D Carpet
- Destination PSP
- Desert Best Friends Closet
- El Paseo Jewelers
- Farmer In the Dale
- Gelson’s
- Golden Smoke Shop
- Gay Mart
- H3K Home+Design
- Lowe’s Home Improvement
- Leeds & Son
- Mathis Home
- Misty’s Consignments
- Marc One Numismatics, Inc.
- Off The Charts
- Palm Desert Mailbox +
- Palm Springs Florist, Inc.
- Peepa’s
- Place Vendome
- Ralphs
- Revivals Stores Palm Desert
- Revivals Stores Palm Springs
- Sleep Number
- Stater Bros Market
- Tap Five
- The Dragon’s Den
- The Leaf El Paseo
- The Mattress Bros
- Trader Joe’s
- Vintage Nursery
Spirits
- 360 Sports at Agua Caliente Casinos
- Bar Cecil
- Blackbook
- Burgers & Beer
- Coachella Valley Brewing Co.
- El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana
- Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge
- La Fe Wine Bar
- La Quinta Brewing Co.
- Lulu California Bistro
- Spencer’s Restaurant
- Streetbar
- The Beer Hunter
- The Roost Lounge
- V Wine Lounge & Martini Bar
- Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe
- Wildest
Sports & Fitness
- 111 Conditioning
- BIGHORN
- Carolina Franco fit – 42 palm springs
- Christian Ceja – Good Choice Collective
- Club Pilates Palm Springs
- Fit in 42
- GATHER Yoga & Wellness Studio
- Lavender Soul Studio
- Mission Hills North – Gary Player Course
- Mountain Vista Golf Club – Sun City Palm Desert
- Nicole Shea Fit in 42 palm springs
- Sun City Palm Desert
- The O’Donnell Golf Club
- Strong Republic
- Indian Canyon
Top Employers
- Bennion Deville Homes Rancho Mirage
- Frazier Pest Control
- Sunlogix Energy
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
- Arcaro’s Auto Body
- Audi Rancho Mirage
- Caliber Collision
- Cardiff Limousine & Transportation of Palm Springs
- Desert European
- Desert Hand Car Wash
- Elephant Car Wash
- Fiesta Ford
- Fiesta Ford, Inc.
- Fiesta Ford Service Center
- Honda of the Desert
- I-10 Auto Body
- KARV
- Lux Valet
- Quick Quack Car Wash
- TRYPPS
The Categories
There are more than 160 categories in the Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards! This list has been curated to best represent the Palm Springs 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
Dermatology Clinic
Esthetician
Eye Care Professional
Family/General Practice Physician
Hair Salon
Hair Stylist
Hearing Aid/Hearing Specialist Center
Hollistic Medicine
Home Health Care Services
Nail Salon – Manicure/Pedicure
Nurse/Nurse Practitioner
Nutrition/Vitamin/Supplement Store
OB/GYN
Orthodontic Clinic
Pediatric Clinic
Pediatric Dental Clinic
Pharmacy/Drug Store
Physical Therapy Clinic
Spa/Medical Spa
Sports Medicine/Orthopedic Center
Tanning Salon
Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic
Dining
All-Around Restaurant
Asian Food
Bakery
BBQ
Breakfast
Brunch
Burger
Caterer/Catering Company
Country Cooking
Curbside/Carry Out/Drive-Thru
Dessert
Diner
Doughnut Shop
Early Bird Dinner
Fine Dining
Fried Chicken
German Food
Greek Food
Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt/Frozen Custard
Indian Food
Italian Food
Japanese Food
Local Coffee Shop
Lunch
Meal for the Money
Mexican Food
New Restaurant
Outdoor/Patio/Rooftop Dining
Pizza
Ribs
Romantic Restaurant
Seafood Restaurant
Steakhouse
Sub/Deli/Sandwich Shop
Supper Club
Sushi
Thai Food
Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free Food
Wings
Entertainment & Leisure
Art Gallery
Birthday Party Venue
Casino
Columnist/Reporter
DJ – Event/Wedding
Event – Local
Event Venue
Family Amusement
Festival/Fair
Fundraising Event
Hotel
Karaoke Bar
Live Music/Concert Venue
Live Theater
Movie Theater
Escape Room
Museum
Place to Dance
Radio Personality/Show
Radio Station – Local
Tourist/Seasonal Attraction – Local
TV Personality
Wedding Venue
Finance
Accounting Firm
Bank
Investment Firm
Mortgage Lending Company
Kids & Education
Child Care
College/University
Dance Studio/School
Karate/Martial Arts School
Pre-School
School – Private
School – Public
Pets
Pet Grooming Company
Pet Boutique
Services
Assisted/Senior Living
Attorney
Carpet/Rug Cleaning Company
Customer Service
Dry Cleaning Company
Heating/AC Service Company
Home Builder
Home Inspection Company
Home Repair/Remodeling Company
Insurance Agent
Law Firm
Moving Company
Non-Profit/Charity Organization
Non-Profit/Charity Organization
Pest Control Company
Plumbing Company
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Company
Retirement/55+ Community
Roofing Company
Security Company
Solar Service Company
Swimming Pool/Spa
Tattoo Studio
Window Company
Shopping
Antique/Coins & Collectibles Store
Boutique
Cannabis Dispensary
CBD Store
Consignment Store
Flooring Store
Florist Shop
Furniture Store
Garden Center/Nursery
Gift Shop
Grocery Store
Hardware/Home Improvement Store
Jewelry Store
Mattress Store
New Business
Produce
Spirits
Bar
Bloody Mary
Cocktails – Restaurant/Bar
Craft Beer Store
Happy Hour
Margarita
Martini
Sports Bar
Wine Bar
Sports & Fitness
Bicycle Store
Fitness Center/Gym
Personal Trainer
Private Golf Course
Public Golf Course
Yoga/Pilates Studio
Top Employers
Place to Work
Vehicles, Dealers & Services
Auto Body/Collision Center
Auto Dealer Service Department
Car Wash/Detail Shop
Limo/Transportation Service
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 Desert Community’s Choice Awards culminates in the announcement of the winners! This takes place at an exclusive awards gala open only to finalists and their guests, the local business leaders and residents of the community. The event starts with a cocktail hour with entertainment, followed by dinner and the awards presentation. The gala serves as not only a platform to celebrate the achievements of the winners, but also as an excellent opportunity for networking and recognition. Attire for the event is business/cocktail.
Awards gala is open to program finalists and guests only.
Join us December 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the JW Marriott Desert Springs.
Winners Edition
Winners of the Best of Desert Community’s Choice Awards are revealed to the public in a winners edition. This commemorative, printed section will publish in the December 15, 2024 edition of the Desert Sun 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 Palm Springs area. After the winners edition publishes, the winners are published for free online.
Publishes December 15, 2024 in the Desert Sun.
Winners and finalists can be viewed online for free after the section publishes.
Business Resources
The Best of Desert 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 winner plaques, finalist certificates and window clings 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 or certificate and window cling and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you will receive your window cling and certificate 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 them. 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 winner plaques, finalist certificates and window clings 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 or certificate and window cling and when do they arrive?
If you purchased an advertising package, you should receive your window cling, certificate, or plaque 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 them. 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?
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2023 Program Results
Here they are, the winners and finalists of the 2023 Best of Desert 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 window clings, plaques or certificates displayed in their establishments.