With three pristine 9-hole courses set against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains on one side and the Olympics on the other, Avalon Golf Links is a reader favorite for a reason. It’s clear why members love to spend a gorgeous Washington day at the links.
MCINTYRE HALL BRONZE: LINCOLN THEATRE
For 64 years now, locals and visitors have been flocking to the Anacortes Arts Festival for a weekend of arts, entertainment, food, and fun. While the art and drinks aren’t free, attendance and entertainment (and people-watching) are, so it’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer day in one of the prettiest cities in Skagit County.
Photo by Anne Godenham
Photo courtesy of Anacortes Arts Festival
READERS' CHOICE
Photo by Anne Godenham
Children's Museum of Skagit County
432 Fashion Way, Burlington, 360.757.8888
skagitchildrensmuseum.net
No matter the age, there’s something for every kid at the Children’s Museum of Skagit County! You’d never know from looking at it that the unassuming storefront in Burlington’s quiet outlet mall houses everything from a sand box and climbing gym to imaginative play rooms, train set, art room, and so much more.
SILVER: WHATCOM MUSEUM
BRONZE: SPARK MUSEUM OF ELECTRICAL INVENTION
Editor's Pick
Most Inventive Comedy Show
From goats to comedians, drag queens to musicians, Repeating Gossip really leans into the variety part of the term “variety show.” The weekly show, written and produced by students at Western Washington University , has built a reputation for inclusivity, inventiveness, and range—appropriately, given its name, it’s garnered quite the audience through word of mouth.
Editor's Pick
Best BONW Beat Dropper
For every Best of the Northwest, there’s a Best of the Northwest celebration with hot tracks spun by DJ Clint Westwood! This Bellingham local is a vocalist, producer, mixing engineer, and amazing DJ with Speaking Feather, a music and multimedia production company based out of Lummi Nation. Thanks for the memories, DJ Clint, and here’s to many more!
Sounds for Peace of Mind
Instagram @jason.laclair.946
SILVER: RON PATTERN BRONZE: CHRIS MOENCH
Bellingham, 360.306.0477 robertsarazinblake.com
SILVER: HOT DAMN SCANDAL
BRONZE: BABY CAKES
Want to experience another world without having to leave your seat? Plan to attend a concert by the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra or the Skagit Symphony for peace of mind through music!
Best Outdoor Dance Party
Looking to get your groove on? Dancing Dana Carr LLC runs the Sunset Silent Disco on Saturdays throughout spring and summer at Zuanich Point Park! Let the sunset be your spotlight as you move freely under golden skies with wireless headphones, great beats, and an inclusive crowd.
BUSINESS / SERVICES
Tint Lady
1204 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham 360.778.2348, tintladyusa.com
Whether you’re looking to fall back in love with your old car or protect your new investment, eight-time Best of the Northwest winner Tint Lady is the place to go. They’re “Bellingham’s premiere automotive enhancement destination! They’ll ”hook you up with everything from interior and exterior detailing to window tints to a next-level ceramic coating.
Bellingham Automotive is a trusted one-stop auto shop for all your car needs! They pride themselves on offering full service repair and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles The addition of special touches like a 3-year or 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor are part of what makes them your favorite auto repair shop.
LUCKY'S
FLAT
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Automotive
Photo by Isabel Hyde
Manna Insurance Group
700 Front St., Lynden, 360.922.0149, mannainsurancegroup.com
Manna Insurance Group is a Lynden-based, community-focused company that puts you first! They can walk you through finding the best policies for home, auto, business, and more, and are proud to offer compassionate customer care far beyond just the basics.
SILVER: TIM SLESK, STATE FARM
BRONZE: TERRY STACH, STATE FARM
Joyco Digital
103 E. Holly St., Ste. 505, Bellingham 360.525.3046, joycodigital.com
Joyco Digital has been chosen by local businesses like Bow Sanctuary, Griffith Furniture & Mattresses, and Bellair Tours & Adventures for their cuttingedge, personalized methods. They can help you with social media management, content creation, web design & SEO, and even copywriting to drive your success while taking a huge amount of work off your plate. SILVER: SWELL MEDIA
Since 1891, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center has been caring for patients in Bellingham and beyond. Their Level II Trauma Center handles emergencies and critical care, while less acute medical needs are served by more than 750 physicians and clinicians across a huge range of specialties.
In the modern age, it’s vital for businesses to prioritize digital security. Nobody understands that better than bits , Whatcom County’s go-to for “business IT solutions!” They’ll support your small to medium sized business with cybersecurity, data backups, and ongoing hardware and software monitoring.
SILVER: JULIAN FRIEDMAN, JULIAN & COMPANY
BRONZE: ALANA MEY, COMPASS REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE AGENT
Northwest Marine Industries is a local business with around 70 years of boat manufacturing experience behind it, so you can trust that their vessels are Salish Sea ready. If you’re in the market, check out their famous Sea Sport or Skagit Orca lines! Crafted to Weather the
Redlight Kitchen & Bar
109 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham 360.393.4483, redlightkitchenandbar.com
This downtown Bellingham bar and restaurant has been a popular haunt for years, and with good reason! Whether you’re looking for an exceptional cocktail, delicious food (we especially love their wontons), or just a cozy, friendly atmosphere, Redlight has what you need.
Fans of Bellingham restaurants Carnal and Accomplice will be familiar with Co-Founder James Zamory’s talent in the kitchen, but his culinary expertise will soon be available nationwide through specialty jerky and meat sticks. Plus, he uses the byproducts of his cooking to produce incredible works of visual art—talk about using the whole animal!
SILVER: DOUG ELLIOTT BRONZE: MATTHEW BOUDOUSQUIE
Bellingham, 360.223.4900, cravecatering.net
SILVER: CALYPSO KITCHEN
BRONZE: THE SKAGIT TABLE
Aslan Brewing Company
Multiple locations, aslanbrewing.com
SILVER: WANDER BREWING
BRONZE: KULSHAN BREWING COMPANY Crave Catering
Any barbecue fan knows there’s a lot of range in what makes a BBQ joint good— starting with the style. Big Stick Barbecue’s meats are cooked low and slow, Texas style, with no shortcuts and a focus on fresh ingredients. The results speak for themselves!
SILVER: HOMESCHOOL BBQ
BRONZE: DOUBLE BARREL BBQ
Photo courtesy of James Zamory
READERS' CHOICE
Community Food Co-op
1220 N. Forest St. & 315 Westerly Rd., Bellingham communityfood.coop
Pronounced ‘coffee,’ a play on the Spanish word for “and,” y, COF& cafe brings Colombian warmth and flair to downtown Bellingham. Not only do they make excellent coffee—from specialty Colombian beans—but their dedication to sustainability matches their commitment to quality.
Namaste the Royal Taste of India opened almost two years ago in Blaine to high demand and, thanks to its success, opened a second location in Bellingham early this year. With classics like butter chicken and korma, plus tons of vegetarian options, you’re sure to enjoy this taste of India!
For true wine aficionados looking for a shop whose inventory spans recent releases and past vintages, Compass Wines is the go-to. Founded by a former restaurant manager and a Seattle businessman, they’ve been serving Anacortes and the greater North Sound with their combined expertise for more than 20 years.
SILVER: SEIFERT & JONES WINE MERCHANTS BRONZE: HELA PROVISIONS
Are you the type of person who wants it all from a menu? B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar can satisfy your cravings with everything from hot wings to calamari, oysters to bison sliders to po boys, steak to wild mushroom risotto, and a range of classic and original cocktails to boot.
Heat, Eat, Repeat
Experience locally-sourced meals made in Mount Vernon from Gold winner The Skagit Table—their delicious, professionally-made food is ready to enjoy in-person or take home. Bellingham-based or just want something more regimented? Sign up with Plantage for weekly meal prep pickups!
Black Sheep in downtown Bellingham serves up crave-worthy, bite-sized eats with bold flavor. With taco options from pork belly to mushroom and kale, each handheld delight is packed with personality. Bite-Sized Bliss
Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant
100 W. Montgomery St., Ste. 110 Mount Vernon, 360.419.0674, granaio.com
Tucked away on the edge of downtown Mount Vernon in an old grain tower is a restaurant that serves up hearty Italian fare with an elevated-casual atmosphere. Il Granaio has long been a favorite destination for handmade pasta, authentic flavors, and warm, family-style service.
SILVER: STORIA CUCINA
BRONZE: LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA & BAR
Roe’s laid-back approach to fine dining has taken Bellingham by storm since they opened in November of last year. Opened and operated by a power couple from Portland (Izzi and Dan Rehbein, the manager and chef, respectively), Roe invites you to come as you are to experience seasonal, local seafood served up in creative ways.
SILVER: SOHO BELLINGHAM ASIAN KITCHEN & BAR
BRONZE: HEY DUMPLIN
Photo by Teo Crider
Photo by Dakota McKay
COA Mexican Eatery & Tequileria
1810 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon
360.840.1938, coaeatery.com
1065 E. Sunset Dr., Bellingham
360.526.2108, coaeaterybellingham.com
623 Morris St., La Conner
360.466.0267 coalaconner.com, coaeatery.com
SILVER: NEW MEXICO TAMALE COMPANY BRONZE: JALAPEÑOS
Nell Thorn
116 1st St., La Conner
360.466.4261, nellthorn.com
SILVER: CHUCKANUT MANOR SEAFOOD & GRILL BRONZE: THE OYSTER BAR
Blue Fin Sushi
102 S. Samish Way, Ste. 105, Bellingham 360.752.2583, bluefinbellingham.com
SILVER: ZEN SUSHI & BAR BRONZE: HOKKAI RAMEN & SUSHI
202 South First St., Mount Vernon 360.336.9777, skagitfoodcoop.com
From fresh local produce and thoughtfullysourced meat and dairy to delicious prepared foods for every diet and lifestyle, the Skagit Valley Food Co-op in Mount Vernon’s got what you need for your weekly shop or your next gathering. And don’t miss the Mercantile section upstairs for fun gifts and housewares!
SILVER: HAGGEN BRONZE: WHOLE FOODS MARKET
Photo by Anne Godenham
FASHION & RETAIL
Penny Lane Antique Mall
427 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.671.3301
Instagram @penny_lane_antique_mall
With more than 5000 square feet of inventory from around 40 different vendors, there’s so much to explore at Penny Lane Antique Mall! One could easily spend an entire day there, perusing everything from vintage housewares and clothing to funky posters and bumper stickers—the hardest part is choosing what gets left behind.
420 Front St., Lynden, 360.778.1849 cheeksjeans.com
SILVER: SOJOURN BRONZE: THREE FRENCH HENS
Samuel's Furniture 1904 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.3388, samuelsfurniture.com
SILVER: GRIFFITH FURNITURE & MATTRESSES
BRONZE: WILSON'S FURNITURE
Editor's Pick
Best Places to Craft & Conquer
We have an amazing array of arts and crafts businesses, and all of them give back to the community by providing us with the means and studio space to create. From Bellingham’s friendly neighborhood shop, Apple Yarns, to Mount Vernon’s newly remodeled imagination destination, Tri-Dee Arts, we love you guys!
Glamorous Dress Shopping at Every Size
Whether you’re looking for a wedding dress, a prom dress, or a fun and flirty cocktail dress, Astrea Bridal in Mount Vernon has hundreds of options in a huge range of sizes.
Fairhaven is full of stylish boutiques that will keep you in fashion. Shout out to the shopkeeps at eleventh st GOODS for keeping us draped in the latest! “Small Shop, Major Style”
With its tall windows giving passersby a look into the airy interior and stylish displays, Adored Boutique is one of the most inviting shops in Fairhaven. Step through the doors and you’ll find that the reality exceeds expectation: the beautiful clothing, jewelry, and gifts are outmatched only by the relaxing environment and friendly staff.
Whether you're new to running (or another foot-focused activity) or know exactly what you need, the team at Fairhaven Runners & Walkers has the specialist knowledge and helpful attitude you need. As they put it, they're “running and active lifestyle advisers, not salespeople.”
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Spencer Audiology Clinic
2114 James St., Bellingham, 360.483.1232 spenceraudiology.com
Spencer Audiology Clinic’s experts will perform a range of hearing tests to help you figure out what’s going on with your hearing and work with you to decide how best to address it, from communication adjustments to hearing aids. Whatever your needs and lifestyle, they’ll guide you to the solution that fits!
SILVER: MIRACLE-EAR HEARING AID CENTER BRONZE: RAINIER HEARING
PIECE OF MIND CANNABIS BRONZE: CASCADE HERB COMPANY
Photo by Cocoa Laney
V's Barbershop
414 W. Bakerview Rd., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.656.6911, vbarbershop.com
SILVER: WALLY'S BARBER SHOP BRONZE: OLD 99 BARBERSHOP
Teachers at FLUX have two main focuses: their students’ bodies—improving their flexibility, strength, and cardiac performance—and their students’ minds. Every yoga class in their infrared-heated, 95-degree studio promises not only a physical challenge but also “inspiration and philosophy” and, of course, fun!
SILVER: BARRE3 BRONZE: FLOW MOTION
Editor's Pick
Toastiest Tans
Bellingham Acupuncture and Wellness
2801 Meridian St., Ste. 102, Bellingham 360.756.5866, changschinesewellness.com
SILVER: DR. SHANNON FREEMAN, A BETTER WAY ACUPUNCTURE AND ENERGETIC MEDICAL QIGONG BRONZE: AVALON ACUPUNCTURE ACUPUNCTURIST
For a sun-kissed look without the sun, Bronzed Hide and Beauty in Ferndale offers food-based, custom airbrush tans that leave your skin glowing and guilt-free. Craving the real rays? Soak up natural vitamin D at Clayton Beach—just a short hike south of Bellingham, with tide pools and scenic views. However you bronze, a summer glow is just around the corner!
Most Likely to Launch the Next Beauty Icon
Whether it’s through their services at Zorganics Beauty Salon and Spa, their classes at Zorganics Institute of Beauty and Wellness, or their Zorganics Cosmetics product line, we think this multi-faceted Bellingham business is most likely to launch the next beauty icon!
Top Spot to Get RedCarpet Ready
Located at 1112 11th Street in Fairhaven, Blessings Salon and Spa offers specialized massages, hair care, mani-pedis and many more services. They also offer memberships for monthly savings on massage and facial services.
Photo courtesy of FLUX Power Yoga
READERS' CHOICE
4255 Meridian St., Ste. 200, Bellingham 360.217.2007 & 2410 James St., Bellingham 360.734.5166, traderjoes.com
So many of us love this national chain for their inexpensive imports and funky-flavored snacks, but they're also a great resource for shoppers with dietary restrictions and specific health requirements. From gluten-free bread to dairy-free yogurt, they've got a bunch of delicious alternatives for most nutritional needs—now in two Bellingham locations!
Photo by Ben Stainbrook
PURE Skin Wellness Spa
419 S. 2nd St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.6161 pureskinwellnessspa.com
Owner Melissa Harris believes that “skincare is healthcare,” so naturally her spa focuses on more than skin-deep services. From facials that encourage a balanced nervous system to medspa therapies that help clients feel “radiant from the inside out,” PURE is dedicated to holistic wellness, rest, and intentional self-care.
1215 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. B, Bellingham 360.715.1052, salonbellissimabellingham.com
For a luxurious—but still comfortable and eco-friendly—salon experience, you’ll want to book in with the lovely stylists at Salon Bellissima. Their expertise extends beyond bespoke cut and color appointments to include high-end highlighting techniques like balayage, texture services like Brazilian blowouts, and even styling and waxing services.
SILVER: HONEY SALON & THE HIVE
BRONZE: LUCY BE HAIR
Yeh Orthodontics
Multiple locations, yehorthodontics.com
SILVER: SCHMIDT ORTHODONTICS
BRONZE: SHOFF ORTHODONTICS ORTHODONTIST
Covering six acres just outside of Ferndale is Laurel Lavender Farm . A u-pick farm established by Bruce and Karen Duim in 2017, it's more than just lavender. Stop by for a showcase of many different wildlife, both plant and animal, and, of course, the wonderful smell of fresh lavender! Most Calming Outdoor Getaway
If you’re looking for cutting-edge beauty services that help you express yourself, Cherry Bomb Esthetics and Tattoo is the place to go for those little touches that add a lot. They offer lash, brow, and wax services, plus nails, facials, and even tattoos, all in a creative, warm, and friendly environment in downtown Bellingham. Most Thoroughly Modern Beauty Collective
5051 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.410.2199, sasquatchpestcontrol.com
Want your pests to be as rare and hard-to-find as our most elusive local celebrity? Bellingham-based Sasquatch Pest Control serves Whatcom and Skagit counties, and prides themselves on their reliability, free consultation inspections, and their service guarantee. For friendly, honest pest control, you voted them the best around!
SILVER: BIO BUG PEST MANAGEMENT BRONZE: NORTHWEST PEST MANAGEMENT
Morris Originals morrisoriginals.com
Morris Originals is a Ferndale-based design firm led by Principal Corry Morris that seamlessly blends logistics with creativity. Even with their expansive portfolio reaching as far as Montana and Texas, they view every project, large or small, as “an exciting opportunity to develop a one-of-a-kind result.”
If you’re local, you know and love Greenhouse! They’ve been providing home goods and furniture to the local area for decades.This year, they’re moving from the iconic corner spot on Cornwall Avenue to a new home on State Street, into a historic building with unique charm. We look forward to exploring the new space!
SILVER: IDEAL
BRONZE: CHUCKANUT BAY GALLERY & SCULPTURE GARDEN
Jennifer Ryan Design
2100 G St., Bellingham, 360.319.7092 jenniferryandesign.com
SILVER: SVC INTERIORS & DESIGN, INC.
BRONZE: HOMEPORT INTERIORS
Editor's Pick
Loveliest Lighting
Highline Construction
5977 Guide Meridian Rd., Bellingham 360.746.5455, highlinewa.com
SILVER: CHUCKANUT BUILDERS
BRONZE: A1DESIGNBUILD
Augusta Lawn Care Services
5309 Guide Meridian Rd., Ste. 3, Bellingham 360.350.5500 & 1777 S. Burlington Blvd., Ste. 431, Burlington, 360.488.4991 augustalawncareservices.com
SILVER: WHATCOM LAWNS
BRONZE: NORTH COUNTY LANDSCAPE CO.
Looking for your next favorite lamp? Fishtrap Creek Interiors and Lighting in Lynden has all sorts of classic options, and Chuckanut Lighting in Burlington (part of the Crescent Lighting family) has a modern selection for any home project!
the Homefires Burning
Do you wanna bring the outdoors indoors? Make your yard just as comfortable as your living room with patio furniture or even a hot tub from Rich’s Clearance Outlet! Add an outdoor fireplace from Craft Stove and you’ll never want to go back inside!
Have a green thumb but hate mess? On the lookout for fabulous home decor? The Garden Room in Fairhaven is here to satisfy all your design needs without getting your hands dirty. With a wide array of plants, soaps, decor, and more, The Garden Room makes outfitting your home a breeze! Best Place to “Dig in” to Design
Whatcom County family business Raedwood has been growing quickly over the past decade, and purchased industrial space in Everson last year. Now, they’re area leaders in “comprehensive cabinet design-engineering and manufacturing,” showcased by their online portfolio of modern flush cabinetry.
SILVER: OPTIONS CABINETRY BRONZE: SUN KITCHEN & BATH
If you need windows, mirrors, or glass doors, The Glass Guru is always ready to help! Their team knows why Bellingham homeowners choose them, according to their website: for “trusted results with a local touch.”
SILVER: LYNDALE GLASS BRONZE: LOUIS AUTO & RESIDENTIAL GLASS
4071 Hannegan Rd., Ste. K, Bellingham 360.382.2780, homeportinteriors.com SILVER: MOUNT VERNON CARPET
Photo by Isabel Hyde
Photo courtesy of Raedwood
Audio / Video Store
Reference Media
1611 N. State St., Bellingham 360.714.8860, reference-media.net
If you’re serious about your media equipment, there is no better team to turn to than the dedicated folks at Reference Media. Beyond creating your dream home theatre, they can also hook you up with temperature, lighting, and shading controls for crafting the perfect atmosphere in home or commercial spaces.
SILVER: AUDIO VIDEO EXCELLENCE
BRONZE: AUDIO VIDEO RESOURCE INC.
HARDWARE / LUMBER STORE
Hardware Sales
2034 James St., Bellingham, 360.734.6140 & 2012 King St. Bellingham, 360.734.6141, hardwaresalesrentals.com
SILVER: BELLINGHAM MILLWORK SUPPLY CO.
BRONZE: BUILDERS ALLIANCE
Pick
Editor's
Infatuated with ceramics? So are we! We never miss a chance to pop into Good Earth Pottery in Fairhaven to see and shop unique clay pieces from dozens of curated regional artists. And when you’re raring to get your own hands into some wet clay, Burnish Clay Studio is a great choice for classes and studio memberships
ROOFING COMPANY
Topside Roofing & Siding
161 E. Horton Rd., Bellingham 360.752.2220, topsideroofing.com
SILVER: MT BAKER ROOFING
BRONZE: S&S ROOFING, LLC
Least Boring Boards
If you like to entertain, or you just want to make everyday cooking a little more beautiful, swap out your old plastic cutting board for one of Geometric Forest’s gorgeous handmade wooden boards! Whatcom local Andy Thorp embraces unusual patterns and combinations, and his meticulous craftsmanship makes each board a unique stunner.
Previously a “speedway and arcade,” MACH1 reopened this July as a full indoor adventure park, with tons of new brightly-colored and bouncy attractions that will keep kids running, jumping, and laughing until they drop. Meanwhile, parents can take a load off and relax in rest areas with open sightlines.
As an experiential education school, Exploration Academy’s adventurous programming focuses on “immersive learning through excursions.” Although they’ve had to pause their high school and summer programming for 2025 due to budget challenges, they’re looking forward to remodeling and reinstating the programs ASAP!
SILVER: CAMP FIRWOOD
BRONZE: CAMP KIRBY
PLACE
FOR A KID'S BIRTHDAY PARTY
Summit Adventure Park Bellingham
4329 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.220.7620 summitbellingham.com
SILVER: MACH1 ADVENTURE PARK
BRONZE: PLAYDATE BELLINGHAM
Editor's Pick
Big Top Don’t Stop
The Shoestring Circus makes its way to Bellingham every year, offering 90 minutes of fun acrobatics and performances that people of all ages can enjoy. Make sure to grab a ticket next time they are in town! The Bellingham Circus Guild can help fill your circus needs in the meantime.
Whole Crew Hikes
If you’re an avid hiker, having kids doesn’t need to put an end to your hobby—the North Sound has a ton of trails that work for every age, from backpack-sized babies to easily-tired toddlers and beyond! Paved or graveled low-elevation trails like Tommy Thompson Trail and Padilla Bay Shore Trail in Skagit are perfect for strollers and balance bikes, and the mellow Lake Padden Park loop is great for more coordinated kids.
Grown-Up HideOut at a Kids’ Venue
No matter the season, you and the kids can enjoy yourselves at Bellingham’s indoor playground, PlayDate BLI. Parents can park themselves in the cafe with a clear sightline to the play area, so the adults can actually converse and enjoy their smoothie or local beer while the kids go nuts. And when everyone gets hangry, there are nuggets and pizzas on offer too! Best
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital provides high quality care to exotic animals, small animals, large animals, and even farm animals! Whether they’re providing medical services or helping animals in need with their Stray Animal Program and Angel Fund, they’re always striving to give all animals the best possible treatment.
SILVER: ANIMAL EMERGENCY CARE BRONZE: MAPLEWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Mud Bay
Multiple locations, mudbay.com
SILVER: RED'S AQUARIUM & PET SUPPLY BRONZE: PETSTOP
In need of a furry friend or a scaly sidekick? Kementari’s Creatures in Bellingham sells crawly pets and their supplies, and Saving Pets One at a Time (or S.P.O.T.) is a grassroots organization in Burlington working to foster and adopt cats and dogs.
SILVER: ROVER STAY OVER BRONZE: DOGGY COME PLAY DOGGIE DAYCARE
Easiest Way to Clean up After Fido
We love our pets, but cleaning up after you let the dogs out is less appealing than playtime and cuddles. Luckily, Cascade Canine Cleanup is all about “clean yards, happy pets, and eco-friendly solutions”! This Whatcom County service will come out for standalone or recurring clean-ups to keep your yard tidy, so that both you and your pups can enjoy it to its fullest.
A well-trained dog is a happy dog, especially because they’ll be invited along to more of your social activities. Pawsitive Dog Training School believes every dog can learn obedience and commands, and offers “board and train” programs, group classes, and customized one-on-one sessions.
SILVER: WHISPERING X K9 TRAINING ACADEMY
BRONZE: TAILS-A-WAGGING
1012 E. Hemmi Rd., Everson 360.398.0174, hylinehotel.com
SILVER: PUGET HOUND BRONZE: SKAGIT CANINE CLUB
1225 Roeder Ave., Ste. 106 Bellingham, 360.756.9515 citydogsgrooming.com SILVER: SHAKE & SHINE BRONZE: NORTHWEST K-9 INN AND
ROMANCE
Belle Flora
2400 Yew St., Bellingham, 360.734.8454
bellinghamflowershop.com
For sophisticated, professional floral arrangements that are sure to wow every time, go to Bellingham's Belle Flora! From locally-sourced flowers in summertime and same-day delivery in Bellingham to full-scale wedding services, you'll never drop the ball on a romantic overture with Belle Flora on your side.
SILVER: HART'S FLORAL
BRONZE: JENSEN'S FERNDALE FLORAL
Editor's Pick
Cutest
Couple-Owned Business You’ll Root For
Bakery It’s The Sweet Things and Filippino restaurant Bry’s Filipino Cuisine may not have much in common on the surface, but there’s a culinary super-couple behind them! Married chefs Jennifer Worthley and Bryan Matamorosa own them respectively, and recently opened a joint venture which combines the best of both businesses! Find New Chapter Cafe inside of Village Books and Paper Dreams in Fairhaven.
Most Dateable Cocktail List
Step into the lush glow of Matthew’s Honest Cocktails, this year’s Silver winner for Best Cocktail. Perfect for date nights, this lounge offers masterfully crafted drinks from rosemary gimlets to barrel-aged old fashioneds. The cozy, romantic setting invites connection and conversation.
