We asked our readers to share some of the local businesses that make Oak City special, and we’re glad to say RALtoday readers know their stuff. These businesses come pre-recommended by the folks who share our fair city.

We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so you’ll want to come back for more. Submit your business or a business you love with our online form.

Food + Beverage

Willow House Coffee, 1004 S. Saunders St.
"With these changing and uncertain times, we feel it's important now more than ever for people to have a safe space, where they can come as they are and grow with one another, in community." — Owner Judy Lee

This homey coffee shop is right near Dix Park, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before a day at Gipson Play Plaza. Plus, you can choose to buy an extra meal and pass it along to a community member in need.

The Cupcake Shoppe | 104 Glenwood Ave.

"Life is short... Eat dessert first!" — Owner Sara Fitzpatrick

This scratch bakery and coffee shop has been helping Triangle residents celebrate life's sweetest moments since 2007. Stop by for cupcakes, cakes, pastries, and espresso drinks, then grab a seat at the open-window counter — and admire the bakery's vintage 100-year-old brass cash register before you leave.

We love Willow House Coffee for its cozy vibe and community mindset. | Photo by SpotHopper Photo Team

Health + Wellness

Rewind Forward Therapeutic Services, virtual and in-person
"For over 10 years, I’ve supported clients through anxiety, depression, panic, major life transitions, family conflict, self-worth struggles, and those “What am I doing with my life?” seasons. At the core, most of us are longing for steadiness, clarity, and a sense of peace." — Owner Jasmin Young-Bradshaw

Jasmin offers a sliding scale pricing system for those without insurance.

bwellbaby, 3700 Barrett Dr., Ste. 100
"bwellbaby was started because I saw a gap in feeding and development services for very young babies and I wanted to bring a more proactive approach to therapy." — Owner Nicole Bazinet

New parents will feel confident + supported after meeting with bwellbaby.

Current Wellness, 219 S. East St.
"We don’t know of another business in the country that provides fitness and wellness in the integrative way that we do!" — Co-founder Brit Guerin

This size-inclusive and diverse fitness studio includes a service of wellness practitioners. Brit recommends the music-fueled Rhythmic Release — not quite a dance class, not quite a fitness class.

Align Pediatric Therapy | 5510 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 120

“With Align's model, patients get the therapy they NEED—not what's dictated by their insurance" — Owner Ashley Rice

This therapist-owned pediatric physical therapy clinic provides one-on-one care for children from birth through age 21, treating everything from developmental delays and torticollis to toe walking.

Mindful Health and Harmony, 7605 Shem Creek Ct.

"I believe these skills shape not just academic or career success, but the overall quality of a person’s life and relationships." — Owner Marianne Breneman

Through her Whole Person Coaching Framework, Breneman helps tweens, teens, young adults, and parents build confidence, communication skills, independence, and emotional resilience.

Current Wellness offers group classes like strength, yoga, and Pilates. | Photo by KieChey Photography

Personal services

Assist your List, virtual
"I created a flexible, a la carte service model that allows Realtors to get out from behind their desks and back into the field, where real growth happens." — Owner Katie Neumann

This real estate transaction coordinator operates with a pay-per-transaction structure that supports Realtor success.

Raleigh Tax Partners, 300 S. Main St., Ste. 212, Office 42, Holly Springs
"We operate on a belief that financial services should be accessible to everyone at a reasonable and transparent cost." — Owner Michael Anderson

This non-judgemental team helps individuals and businesses keep more money in their pockets during tax season.

Pinky Swear Tattoo, 208 Fayetteville St., Ste. 320

"I started this business to create a space that’s not like the typical tattoo shop. A very calm, home like feeling that doesn’t feel intimidating. I want every client to feel like family." — Owner Apryl Palomino

This woman-owned shop was designed to feel calm and welcoming, giving clients a comfortable place to work with talented artists. One thing you can't miss: the collection of original artwork displayed throughout the studio.

Retail

Hartwell, 620 W. South St.
"We celebrate all things local from musicians, artists, and makers of all kinds." — Owner Caitlin Ward

This private event space, retail market, and community space has a gorgeous rooftop deck with downtown views. Plus, they provide storefront retail space to local makers who receive 100% of their sales.

Bring your family and friends on a new adventure at Whole Brain Escape. | Photo by Rafael Chandler

Travel + Leisure

Becoming rentABLE, virtual
"So many people that rented with us had the same story: It felt like it was near impossible to find a vacation rental that met their accessibility needs. I created Becoming rentABLE to make that search easier for families all across the US." — Owner Lorraine Woodward

This locally made database helps those with disabilities find short-term rentals across the US.

The MelodyMaker Entertainment, virtual
"We specialize in happy little faces!" — Owner Melody Scruggs

Need face painting, balloon twisting, magic, staffed inflatables, or carnival games at your next event? Melody and her pro team have got you.

Whole Brain Escape, 410 Upchurch St., Apex
"My husband Rafael and I started Whole Brain Escape to bring our professional background in the video game industry to life in Apex, creating a space where families can trade screens for shared adventures." — Owner Heather Chandler

These expertly designed escape rooms are perfect for your fam, with themes like wild west, ancient Egypt, pirates, and dragons.

Editor Allie's picks

Edge of Urge | Gift store
If this quirky store ever gets mentioned in the newsletter, it's because of me. With an endless supply of fun items, it's my go-to spot for a gift for a loved one or myself. Plus, Person Street Plaza has other great tenants like Wine Authorities, Yellow Dog, and So & So Books across the street.

TrunkShow | Vintage
This vintage store is a treasure trove. I especially love looking through all the home decor and finding unique pieces for my home. Plus, regular vintage markets bring in even more cool vendors.

Sound Off Records & Hi-Fi | Music
This woman-owned used music store is a lot of fun, and I love bringing in my less-loved vinyl and trading it in for new-to-me records. They even offer turntable repairs if your player has seen better days.

Psst — If you’d like to see a small business included in RALtoday, make sure to submit it here.