This holiday season, maybe more than any other, it’s important that we support small businesses. 2020 has taken a toll on many small businesses, but if we spend our holiday shopping budgets with them, we could give them a boost that could help keep their doors open!

The Salt + Stone Property Group team has put together a list of a few of our favorite small businesses that operate in the Wilmington, North Carolina and Cape Fear area. If you haven’t heard of these companies, be sure to check them out this holiday season. They could become a favorite of yours, as well! Whether you purchase goods or a gift card for later use, you won’t regret supporting these local small businesses.

open shop storefront sign

Image source: Unsplash

Food & Drink

  • Pizzetta’s Pizzeria - With Sicilian heritage and New York roots, Pizzetta’s opened their doors to bring traditional and savory Italian dishes to Wilmington, NC. They now serve two locations - Wilmington and Leland. Pro tip: you can bring your own bottle of wine or beer (unopened) and they will serve it to you!

  • Matter More Coffee - Located in Hampstead, this family-owned coffee shop has a convenient drive-thru, cozy seating inside, and tasty drinks and treats. If you stop by, you may see Brynnen taking a caffeine break - it’s one of his go-to spots!

  • Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream - This is a family-run sweet shop offering unique ice cream flavors & ice-cream pies in a modern, colorful setting. They currently have two locations - The Forum and Downtown - with another in Hampstead coming soon! The whole Salt + Stone team loves Boombalatti’s, but it’s one of Aleisha’s all-time favorites.

  • Drift Coffee - Did we mention that we love coffee here at Salt + Stone Property Group? Drift Coffee serves things that they enjoy - items that are minimally processed, nutritious, fun and flavorful. Haley loves their “bomb coffee” and the atmosphere. Stop by one of their 3 locations - Autumn Hall, Mayfaire, or Ocean Isle Beach!

  • CheeseSmith Food Truck - An artisanal grilled cheese food truck created by husband and wife team, Brendan and Molly Curnyn, two food-obsessed chefs that set out to change the food truck game in Wilmington, NC and show people what they can do with the perfect, creative vessel - grilled cheese. Jesse’s favorite sandwich is the Buffalo Baby - 10/10 recommend.

  • Flytrap Brewing - Since opening Flytrap, owner, Mike, has been dedicated to brewing the best possible beers he can - with a focus on American and Belgian ales that are well balanced and full of flavor. Haley claims they serve some of the best beers in town!

  • The German Cafe - Formed in 1985, this cafe feels like an authentic German restaurant with exposed brickwork and a cozy atmosphere and has authentic recipes to boot. We recommend trying the Veal Schnitzel Platter (Holsteiner Style), and don’t leave without trying The Napoleon with a cup of coffee! The German Cafe is located in the Cotton Exchange in Downtown Wilmington.

  • Collective Law - This brand new business offers event styling, but what seems to be their “bread & butter” are their Al Fresco & Board Collections. They will come to your home (or the beach, a park, other dreamy location of your choice) and set up the most lovely charcuterie or dessert board you’ve ever seen. They even offer to-go boards! Meats & cheeses are Morgan’s love language, so she’s a big fan and highly recommends!

  • Whiskey Trail at the Creek - This family-friendly neighborhood hangout for food and drinks serves some of the best wings and burgers around. Not a bad place to watch the game either. It’s hard for the Salt + Stone team to not frequent too often since they’re just right across the street from our office!

  • Fermental Beer & Wine - The retail shop sells and serves an eclectic selection of craft beer and fine wine and features a large outdoor beer garden, a tasting bar with perpetually rotating draught beer selections, wines by the glass, live music, food trucks, and an expansive selection of quality libations and accompanying accouterments; including imported cheeses, cured meats, pickles, olives, and wine ice cream. Yes, wine ice cream. Aleisha is a big fan of Fermental, and we believe you will be, too.

Retail

  • Willow & Fitz - Owner of this “handmade goods” company, Blair, is one of the most talented people we (Jesse and Morgan) know. She designs crocheted creations, spunky t-shirts, and so much more. Follow along to see what goods she offers next & check out her Etsy shop to make a purchase!

  • Music Loft - Music Loft is Eastern North Carolina’s premier music store. Their highly experienced staff is there to help you with all your musical instrument needs, whether you are a touring professional or a new player looking for the tools you need to fuel your passion. If you stop by, you may see Jesse drooling over guitars and talking music (and real estate, of course) with the staff.

  • Modern Legend - Owner, Catherine, describes this eclectic Downtown boutique best: “This is a store meant for any creative type person - someone who wants to have a good laugh, hear that new Radiohead record, look into some new scarves or jewelry for the changing of seasons, or check out that new art print.” You can find something for just about everyone on your list here. Go check it out!

  • Legacy Architectural Salvage - Since 2015, Legacy Architectural Salvage (LAS) has been the retail source for windows, doors, flooring, décor, and other elements from old buildings. If character, charm, and history define your home style, visit LAS often to see their ever-changing inventory!

  • Perry’s Emporium - If you’re looking for fine jewelry, this is the place to go in Wilmington, NC! As a previous employee, Morgan can vouch for the expert knowledge of the staff and the countless pieces of stunning jewelry they have in stock. Add this family-owned and operated business to your shopping list this holiday season!

  • Kapena Kai - Kapena Kai is home to an adventurous crew that loves people and loves the planet. They’re committed to investing one dollar of every purchase, of their laid back style clothes & accessories, in the protection of our planet and the empowerment of children. Their story is inspirational and their goods are cool. Check them out!

Which of these small local businesses have you shopped at? What additional companies would you add to the list? Let us know and thank you for supporting small local businesses, especially this holiday season.