There are still a few categories left in the Best of OKC Ballot review. Since I’m not an expert in everything (surprising, I know), I am choosing to address the Best Shopping Center or Mall and Best New Business and be done. *If anyone wants to write about the Vintage and Thrift store category, let me know.

Best Shopping Center or Mall: Honestly, there’s not much to say about this one. All the nominated centers/malls contain at least one local store, however, only one is exclusively local: The Plaza District. Since my business (term used loosely) promotes local shopping, my votes are with the Plaza District on this one.

Best New Business: It’s hard to start a business, so I have respect for all new businesses in the OKC Metro area! Unfortunately, everyone can’t be nominated for Best of OKC. Usually, the businesses that make the ballot have something unique to offer…

• Birdie - Half flower shop, half sustainable goods shop, Birdie has become a Campus Corner (Norman) favorite of mine. Owner Katie Huskerson is a creative at heart — this shines through in everything that she creates and sells.
• Forward Foods on Western - Forward Foods recently transformed their new location at 51st and Western into a bright, modern space that houses a smorgasbord of gourmet cheeses and organic and local foods. Seriously, if you need cheese, Forward Foods can help you out.
• Red Coyote Running and Fitness - Not only do I appreciate their innovative shoe-fitting process, I appreciate their first-mover mentality. As the first retail business to open in Classen Curve, Red Coyote took risks to embrace the new shopping center & I really like that.
• Shop Good - Many stores donate to charities, but few make that their mission. Shop Good does. They also print their own tees (that are super soft and socially conscious). If you’ve never visited them, mark your calendar for August 4th. This is Shop Good’s official Grand Opening in their new location on 9th Street: The Stache Bash.
• Warpaint Clothing Co. – I think my previous post about these guys says it all. They treat their clothing creations and storefront as a work of art, so don’t expect to ever walk in and find something bland. Their stuff is provocative, comfortable and flat-out cool.

I hope you enjoyed my Best of OKC Ballot Reviews. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me to write an article about your event or store —