Shopping local is important all year, but this year our community is still recovering from Hurricane Florence. Every Wilmington business lost weeks (or more) due to the storm. Luckily, we are a strong and united city, but we are not out of the woods yet. This holiday season, it is more important than ever to support the small businesses you love! According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster and another 25%, of those that do reopen, fail within a year. So far, Wilmington is defying this statistic. Here are just a few places we'll be shopping. Also- every small business on this list is owner operated!
1. Oliver - 1055 Military Cutoff Rd # 103, Wilmington, NC 28405
Shop online at www.oliverclothing.com
Obviously, we have a soft spot for Oliver- this is where we officially got our start! Oliver has been a staple for the Wilmington fashion community for over a decade. Sought after brands such as Citizens of Humanity, J Brand, Mother, Frame & McGuire are found exclusively in Wilmington at Oliver. In addition to a sprawling denim assortment (my favorite jeans EVER are from here), Oliver boasts an incredible selection of everything from basic tees to cocktail dresses, shoes, and accessories. Support local artist Merewif while you're there.
2. Tusc - 921 Town Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405
Shop online at www.tusc.co
This year Tusc moved from Downtown Wilmington to Mayfaire Town Center and over doubled their space and inventory! Find clothes, gifts, accessories, and more inspired by where the desert meets the sea. Support other locals too: Brooke Eagle Art, Missio, Spectrum Handcrafted, and the Coastal Succulent are all available at Tusc.
3. Modern Legend - 130 N Front St #102, Wilmington, NC 28401
Shop online at www.modern-legend.com
Modern Legend was totally destroyed and has completely rebuilt since Hurricane Florence. Their resilience and determination through it all have been so impressive. Now they're getting settled back into their space, be sure to go by to check them out. Even more of a reason: this Friday, November 23, is Record Store Day, so go check out their collection! Other locals you can support at Modern Legend include Aluna Works, Smooth Press, State Brand, Jarred Weinstein, TayHam, and more!
4. State of Shaka - shop online at www.stateofshaka.com
Show your support for wherever is home to you! Hometown pride has a lot to do with Wilmington's resilience when storms like Florence come our way. State of Shaka has been spreading stoke to members of our community who otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to enjoy the ocean through hosting + sponsoring surf camps for kids.
There are so many more Wilmington, NC businesses we love. Keep an eye out for more ways to shop small this season.
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