Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Starkville Kicks Off Readers’ Choice 2025 Contest

Community members celebrating local businesses at the Readers' Choice 2025 kickoff in Starkville.

News Summary

The Readers’ Choice 2025 contest is officially underway in Starkville, encouraging residents to nominate their favorite local businesses. With nominations open until February 5, everyone is invited to show appreciation for local spots, from cafes to boutiques. After nominations, voting will take place from February 6 to February 22. The winners will be announced in the Starkville Daily News, spotlighting businesses that enhance the community’s quality of life. Additionally, a new local store, Reef and Leaf, is set to open, offering a variety of aquatics and exotic plants.

Excitement Builds in Starkville for Readers’ Choice 2025 Contest

Hey there, Starkville! It’s that time of year again when the community comes together to show appreciation for our favorite local businesses. The Readers’ Choice 2025 contest is officially underway, and it’s time for you to get involved and make your voice heard!

Nomination Phase is Now Open!

Let’s kick things off with important details. The nomination phase for local businesses is open until Wednesday, February 5, at 11:59 PM. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit down, and think about all those fantastic spots in Starkville that you believe deserve a shoutout. Whether it’s a cozy café, a handy hardware store, or a dazzling boutique, this is your opportunity to nominate them!

You can easily navigate through various categories and subcategories to find the businesses you love. If you don’t see your favorite local hangout listed, don’t sweat it! There’s a neat little option to click “Nominate” and enter the business name you believe should be featured. How cool is that?

Mark Your Calendars for Voting!

Once nominations wrap up, it’s time for the fun part – voting! Voting will kick off on Thursday, February 6, and will last until Saturday, February 22, at 11:59 PM. You’ll have the chance to cast your votes for any of the businesses that get nominated, which means all your favorites have a shot at the glory!

Just so you know, you can vote once per day in each subcategory. So, make it a point to return every day and support the local businesses you cherish. Your daily support could really make all the difference for them!

The Big Reveal

Now, once the voting period concludes, the excitement continues as the winners will be announced in the Starkville Daily News. As part of the celebration, those businesses that clinch the top spots will also be featured in a special directory on their website. It’s all about shining a light on those that enrich our community’s quality of life!

A New Addition to Starkville: Reef and Leaf

Reef and Leaf, Starkville’s latest hotspot for all things aquatics and exotic. Co-owned by five individuals who hail from various professional backgrounds, this charming store is set to offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for all community members.

Located at 1085 Stark Rd #106, Reef and Leaf aims to cater to both the seasoned enthusiast and the curious newcomer. Expect to find a great variety of rare and exotic plants, captivating aquatic life, dry goods, and all the starter equipment you need to dive into the captivating world of aquatics.

And if you’re wondering when you can check it out, Reef and Leaf is gearing up for a grand opening ceremony scheduled for October. Until then, you’re welcome to place special requests early, so keep that in mind!

Meet the Greeter!

To add an extra touch of charm to the shopping experience, Reef and Leaf features an adorable professional greeter! Meet Allie Glenn, a seven-year-old who’ll be welcoming visitors with a smile. What a delightful addition to the shopping experience!

So get ready to show your love for Starkville’s local businesses through the Readers’ Choice 2025 contest and embrace all the wonderful new additions, especially Reef and Leaf. Let’s rally together to keep our local economy thriving! Your participation truly counts!