Recognizing the Best of the Best in Coastal Virginia’s Business Community
As a business professional, you want to support fellow leaders and businesses that share your commitment to excellence and your dedication to service. We designed our annual Best Of Business (BOB) Awards to make it simple for you to do so, with an easy-to-reference list highlighting Coastal Virginia’s superstar enterprises and entrepreneurs according to local professionals and reader votes.
How did we choose the winners?
We invited members of our Coastal Virginia business community to nominate businesses in 86 categories from July 1 to July 30, 2019. We then advanced the businesses with the most nominations to a voting round held Aug. 1 to Sept. 1, 2019 and allowed individuals to vote as often as once per day in any category. Here we feature the businesses with the most votes with rankings of gold, silver and bronze in most categories.
*Indicates Gold winner in multiple subcategories.
Business To Business
Best Ad and Marketing Agency
Gold
Create/Captivate Digital Marketing
From visionary solo entrepreneurs to small businesses, a variety of organizations turn to Create/Captivate for guidance on and execution of digital marketing communications. Their team members create images and messaging for logos, websites, social media and email campaigns, all designed to grab attention and spark interest.
318 W 21st St., Norfolk. 757-563-3013.
CreateCaptivate.com
Silver
Primm Advertising
ThePrimmCompany.com
Bronze
O'Brien et al. Advertising
OBrienEtAl.com
Best Architectural Firm
Gold
HBA Architecture & Interior Design
This Virginia Beach firm thinks equally about the small details and the big picture when planning and designing, keeping what it calls “effective architecture” top of mind during every step—hoping to simultaneously satisfy clients’ needs while complementing the surrounding community and respecting its resources.
One Columbus Center, Suite 1000, Virginia Beach. 757-490-9048.
HBAOnline.com
Silver
VIA Design Architects
VIADesignArchitects.com
Bronze
Retnauer Baynes Architects
RBAPC.com
Best Bank for Business
Gold
TowneBank*
For 20 years, TowneBank has dedicated itself to individuals and businesses looking to secure their future with responsible financial backing and advice. The bank has grown to 41 offices in two states since 1999 yet retains its small-town commitment to offering friendly service targeted to individual needs.
TowneBank has locations throughout Coastal Virginia.
TowneBank.com
Silver
Navy Federal Credit Union
NavyFederal.org
Bronze
Southern Bank
SouthernBank.com
Best Business Accounting Firm
Gold
Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer, P.C.
Thirty years of business have been fueled by the confidence this accounting firm instills in its clients. Wall, Einhorn & Chernitzer wants the organizations turning to them for help to believe in the work they do, the advice they offer and the person presenting the guidance.
West Main St., Suite 1200, Norfolk. 757-625-4700.
WEC-CPA.com
Silver
Pro Tax & Accounting LLC
ProTaxLLCVa.com
Bronze
K&M Winslow Associates
KMWinslowAssociates.com
Best Business Broker
Gold
Divaris
Divaris embraces a team philosophy, bringing together a group of employees under the direction of a principal. Working as one, the group identifies clients’ needs and pinpoints how to meet them so that results are delivered quickly to save time and maximize investments.
Divaris has locations throughout Coastal Virginia.
Divaris.com
Silver
Virginia Asset Group
VirginiaAssetGroup.com
Bronze
Hampton Roads Business Brokers
MurphyBusiness.com/Hampton-Roads
Best Commercial Builder
Gold
Armada Hoffler
Priding itself on repeat business, Armada Hoffler Construction Company has built for a number of the same clients repeatedly throughout its nearly four decades of being in business. Their commitment to quality and flexibility keeps people returning for general contracting, design-build and preconstruction services.
249 Central Park Ave., Suite 300, Virginia Beach. 757-366-4000.
ArmadaHofflerConstruction.com
Silver
S.B. Ballard
SBBallard.com
Bronze
W.M. Jordan
WMJordan.com
Best Commercial Insurance Firm (Benefits/Liability)
Gold
Blade Benefit Consulting
Blade Benefit Consulting has handled benefits for companies from its Virginia Beach headquarters for 40 years, providing all the services a business needs to care for their employees, including enrollment services, payroll, pension, insurance brokers and benefits administration. Its goal is to make the benefit delivery process as simple as possible and to communicate clearly with businesses’ employees.
PO Box 1472, Virginia Beach.
BladeBC.com
Silver
Ware Insurance
WareInsurance.com
Bronze
The Colony Group
TheColonyGroup.com
Best Commercial Lender
Gold
TowneBank*
TowneBank has locations throughout Coastal Virginia.
TowneBank.com
Silver
Navy Federal Credit Union
NavyFederal.org
Bronze
Old Point National Bank
OldPoint.com
Best Commercial Photographer
Gold
Hampton Roads Photography
With more than 50 local businesses ranging from realtors and publishers to restaurants and healthcare organizations relying on Hampton Roads Photography, this creative business captures individual portraits, events, products and scenery in unique ways to draw in viewers. Whether photographing a dancer in motion, a speaker delivering a keynote address or a professional at work in an office, these photographers make every subject a standout.
5773 Arrowhead Drive, Suite 301, Virginia Beach. 757-499-8708.
HamptonRoadsPhotography.com
Silver
Ramone Photography
Ramone.com
Bronze
Bob Harper Photography LLC
BobHarperPhotography.com
Best Commercial Plumber
Gold
Mason & Son Plumbing and Heating
Putting the customer first for 50 years, this business started as a father-and-son effort and continues today with a husband-and-wife team supported by top technicians. Every employee is skilled, trained and background-checked to provide service that can be trusted.
13646 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. 757-596-5166.
MasonAndSonPlumbing.com
Silver
Fitch Specialties, LLC
FitchSpecialties.com
Bronze
Michael & Son Services
Service.MichaelAndSon.com
Best Property Management Company
Gold
S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co.
After more than 100 years in the business, S.L. Nusbaum knows to prioritize high occupancy, tenant satisfaction, service and cost-containment when it comes to managing properties, whether the property is a commercial building, an apartment complex or a shopping center. They aim to maximize profits for owners by maintaining these priorities.
1700 Wells Fargo Center, 440 Monticello Ave., Norfolk. 757-627-8611.
SLNusbaum.com
Silver
The Franklin Johnston Group
TheFranklinJohnstonGroup.com
Bronze
Pembroke Real Estate
PembrokeRealty.com
Best Commercial Real Estate Agent
Gold
JC Wynkoop
Heading up a Wynkoop Realty Group through Re/Max Alliance, JC Wynkoop assists those looking at commercial and residential properties as well as meeting property management needs. He distinguishes his group with loyalty, a boutique-service mindset and an entrepreneurial, creative approach backed with 20 years experience.
4701 Columbus St., Suite 201, Virginia Beach. 757-816-0182.
WynKoopRealty.com. ReMax.com
Silver
Jim Abrams, Abrams Realty
AbramsHomes.com
Bronze
Martin Burwell, Chantel Ray
ChantelRay.com
Best Commercial Videographer
Gold
View It Do It
A full video production house, View It Do It can create a video or commercial for your company. Their staff is also available to help companies live stream events or teach a company representative how to live stream on their own so that others can join in meetings and events.
237 Hanbury Road, E. Suite 17–243, Chesapeake. 757-741-8434.
ViewItDoIt.com
Silver
Kevin Makes Sense Media
KevinMakesSense.com
Bronze
Chris Lane Video
ChrisLaneVideo.com
Best Corporate Law Firm
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
Founded in 1883, this Norfolk-headquartered law firm has represented thousands of successful cases in many disciplines, including bankruptcy and collections, bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, director and officer liability, eminent domain and land use, intellectual property, labor and employment, maritime and admiralty, professional liability, trust and estate planning and workers’ compensation.
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Wolcott Rivers Gates
WolcottRiversGates.com
Bronze
Hanger Law
HangerLaw.com
Best Corporate Moving Company
Gold
Accurate Installations & Moving Services
This experienced moving company is certified to work with not only businesses but also government identities, moving offices and equipment and setting up in new spaces once all items are securely delivered. Their service area reaches beyond Coastal Virginia and into Richmond and Northern Virginia as well as out of state upon request.
5595 Raby Road, Norfolk. 757-855-2400.
AIMSVa.com
Silver
Two Men and a Truck Virginia Beach
TwoMenAndATruck.com
Bronze
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving Virginia Beach
CollegeHunksHaulingJunk.com
Best Employment Law Firm
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Wolcott Rivers Gates
WolcottRiversGates.com
Bronze
Foley & Foley, P.C.
FoleyAndFoleyLaw.com
Best Engineering Firm
Gold
Speight, Marshall & Francis P.C.
This firm’s desire is to secure repeat clients with above-and-beyond client care and a can-do mentality. Quality is held to the highest standard as team members meet every deadline with innovative designs and solutions to meet clients’ long-term and short-term goals.
1228 Perimeter Pkwy., Virginia Beach.
SMAndF.com
Silver
Clark Nexsen
ClarkNexsen.com
Bronze
Bamforth Engineers + Surveyors, Inc.
Bamforth.com
Best General Contractor
Gold
Build America Construction
Early in his career, Build America Construction owner Duane Cotton operated a local HVAC sales and service company and later a company specializing in modular homes and renovations. He grew to become Build America Construction in 2010 and focus on commercial and government building as well as residential homes, including work on a home for the popular Extreme Makeover Home Edition on ABC.
3017 Stratford Drive, Chesapeake. 757-598-1211.
BuildAmericaConstruction.com
Silver
Valor Construction Group
Valor-USA.com
Bronze
Armada Hoffler Construction Company
ArmadaHofflerConstruction.com
Best Health Insurance Agency Brokerage
Gold
The Harmond Group
Offering guidance in health, Medicare, dental, life, disability and long-term care insurance, The Harmond Group provides clients with insurance that meets their needs at a competitive price. Their flexible offerings mean they can work with clients who have as few as two employees or those who have hundreds.
5269 Greenwich Road, Suite 200, Virginia Beach. 757-464-9557.
TheHarmondGroup.com
Silver
Blade Benefit Consulting
BladeBC.com
Bronze
The Colony Group
TheColonyGroup.com
Best Health Insurance Provider for Businesses
Gold
Beskin-Divers Insurance Group Inc.
As an independent insurance agency, not pledged to any one insurer, this group can turn to a variety of insurers who can offer the best option for an employer. They do so by paying attention to details, understanding their customers’ needs and finding the ideal match for each client.
300 Southport Circle, Virginia Beach. 757-497-1041.
BeskinDivers.com
Silver
Blade Benefit Consulting
BladeBC.com
Bronze
The Colony Group
TheColonyGroup.com
Best HR Firm
Gold
Woodard Associates LLC*
Woodard & Associates wants to create better business operations as it strengthens management and employee relationships and implements effective systems. From onboarding employees to communicating policies, the company, led by founder Julie Woodard, provides the services that build trust and confidence in management so that employees feel secure and appreciated. Woodard also assists individuals looking to perfect their job-seeking skills.
757-769-6138.
Woodard-Associates.com
Silver
Principle Strategies
PrincipleStrategies.com
Bronze
Gere Consulting Associates
GereConsulting.com
Best Independent Insurance Agency
Gold
Bruce Laderberg Insurance
Bruce Laderberg’s mission is to provide counseling and advice to clients to help them choose the products that will best protect them and their families. His advice is the same he would give to his own family. He is free to choose the carrier for each individual’s needs, working for the client, and not one insurance company.
5215 Colley Ave., Norfolk. 757-965-7700.
LaderbergInsurance.com
Silver
J Richard Braun Insurance
Agency.Nationwide.com
Bronze
Dominion Financial Solutions
DominionWins.com
Best Intellectual Property Law Firm
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Willcox Savage
WillcoxSavage.com
Bronze
Peter J. Van Bergen, Patent Attorney
PeterVanBergen.com
Best IT Company
Gold
NetTek
NetTek formed 29 years ago after its leaders recognized small- and medium-sized businesses’ needs for technology services. These needs have only grown over the years as technology dominates many aspects of business and NetTek has been able to meet them, from data cabling and complex network migrations to managed services and cloud computing.
2415 Almeda Ave., Norfolk. 757-321-4000.
NetTek.com
Silver
Electronic Systems, Inc.
ESI.net
Bronze
MI Technical Solutions
MITechnicalSolutions.com
Best Landscaping/Lawn Care Service
Gold
Earthscapes Lawn & Land Services
A family started Earthscapes over 25 years ago and today the two founding twin sons remain committed to treating every customer as a cherished member of their extended family. In addition to their business experience garnered at a young age, the twins each earned a degree in horticulture and lawn maintenance and continue to educate themselves on the newest and best techniques.
3112 Beachmont Ave., Norfolk. 757-395-4306.
EarthscapesVB.com
Silver
Agronomic Lawn Management
FertilizeWithALM.com
Bronze
Basnight Land & Lawn
BasnightLandAndLawn.com
Best Law Firm Overall
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Wolcott Rivers Gates
WolcottRiversGates.com
Bronze
Phillips & Peters, PLLC
PhillipsPetersLaw.com
Best Life Insurance Provider
Gold
Dominion Financial Solutions
Dominion Financial Solutions understands that each person and business’ needs are unique, and they wish to learn about those needs and objectives before recommending strategies. They set aside time to listen to prospective clients and pinpoint concerns before making recommendations that can bring about beyond-expectation results.
521 Old Great Neck Road, Suite 3, Virginia Beach. 757-631-0700.
DominionWins.com
Silver
Blade Benefit Consulting
BladeBC.com
Bronze
The Colony Group
TheColonyGroup.com
Best Locally Owned Office Furniture
Gold
Total Business Solutions, Inc.*
In 1988, owner John Tuttle, Sr. created a company to assist businesses with a variety of needs. With a focus on gaining clients’ trust, and a desire to provide quality products and services, Total Business Solutions grew from a home-based business to a top business in Portsmouth. Their extensive services include office furniture consultations and 3D-renderings to help customers see how new furniture will work in various settings.
3413 Griffin St., Portsmouth. 757-398-8312.
TotalBusinessSolutions.com
Silver
Office Furniture Outlet
OFOVa.com
Bronze
Willis Furniture
WillisFurniture.com
Best Luxury Auto Dealership
Gold
Mercedes-Benz of Virginia Beach a Charles Barker Family
Part of the Charles Barker company, this Mercedes-Benz dealer wants every customer to be empowered with knowledge and to trust their sales team. From the first visit to follow-up service, each customer should feel that they’ve been efficiently assisted and leave confident in the car they drive and its reliability.
4949 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach. 757-499-3771.
MercedesBenzOfVirginiaBeach.com
Silver
Charles Barker Lexus Virginia Beach
CharlesBarkerLexusVirginiaBeach.com
Bronze
Checkered Flag BMW
BMW.CheckeredFlag.com
Best Mortgage Lender
Gold
Old Point National Bank
Old Point National Bank assists customers locally and nationwide with home loan and refinancing needs. They offer transparent information and communication and responsible lending through a variety of loans, fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages, FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, jumbo loans, state-specific bond programs and renovation loans.
Old Point National Bank has locations throughout Coastal Virginia. 757-769-7169.
OldPoint.com
Silver
The Elite Team powered by Tidewater Mortgage Services, Inc
TidewaterMortgage.com
Bronze
TowneBank Mortgage
TowneBankMortgage.com
Best Office Cleaning Service
Gold
Davis Professional Services
As a woman-owned commercial janitorial business in Coastal Virginia, Davis Professional Services uses the most up-to-date software and technology to clean and manage services for commercial clients. They aim to provide top-quality cleaning at affordable prices with customer-specific services delivered by highly trained staff members.
820 Greenbrier Circle, Unit 18, Chesapeake. 757-431-1344.
DavisProServ.com
Silver
Domestic Divas
CleaningGoddess.com
Bronze
Dust Bunnies of Hampton Roads
DustBunniesHR.com
Best Office Designer
Gold
Total Business Solutions, Inc.*
3413 Griffin St., Portsmouth. 757-398-8312.
TotalBusinessSolutions.com
Silver
Office Furniture Outlet
OFOVa.com
Bronze
RRMM Architects
RRMM.com
Best Payroll Services
Gold
Pay Day Payroll
Founder Andy Kline started his business doing tax returns back in 1985 and later found himself helping a client with payroll. From there, he grew to help clients nationwide, added a location in Florida and recruited family members to be part of his business, which now offers a variety of human resource services.
6465 College Park Square, Suite 200, Virginia Beach. 757-523-0605.
PayDayPayroll.com
Silver
ADP
ADP.com
Bronze
Pro Tax and Accounting
ProTaxLLCVa.com
Best Real Estate Law Firm
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Wolcott Rivers Gates
WolcottRiversGates.com
Bronze
Virginia Beach Law Group
VaBeachLawGroup.com
Best Staffing Company
Gold
Arvon Staffing
With two locations, Arvon helps both jobseekers and employers. Their job board and coaching services assists those looking for employment, and their marketing skills and extensive network support businesses looking for high-achieving individuals to hire. Save time and resources by asking Arvon to do the hard work of building a new career or improving a business with top staffers.
5544 Greenwich Road, Suite 102, Virginia Beach. 757-499-9900. 714 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Suite 130, Newport News. 757-595-5551.
Arvon.com
Silver
Priority Staffing
Priority-Staffing.com
Bronze
Aerotek
Aerotek.com
Best Tax Law Firm
Gold
Vandeventer Black LLP*
101 West Main St., 500 World Trade Center, Norfolk. 757-446-8600.
VanBlackLaw.com
Silver
Wolcott Rivers Gates
WolcottRiversGates.com
Bronze
Kaufman & Canoles
KaufCan.com
Best Telecommunications Provider
Gold
Segra (formerly Lumos)
Segra strives to change the image of telecommunications by offering great customer service. They’ve recently re-engineered their operations to be customer-centered, prioritizing listening and respecting every customer. In addition, they’re building an improved infrastructure designed for the future of many different industries, including healthcare, finance and manufacturing.
800-686-7671.
Segra.com
Silver
Verizon
VerizonWireless.com
Bronze
Cox Business
Cox.com
Best Title Company
Gold
First Settlement Title & Escrow Company
In partnership with Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, this Virginia Beach company provides title and escrow services to those looking for an experienced and knowledgeable company. They educate clients on the need to protect themselves and secure the correct documents and accounts to contain their risk.
200 Bendix Road, Suite 220, Virginia Beach. 757-554-0234.
Facebook.com/FSTECVA
Silver
Title Concepts LLC
VaTitleGirl.com
Bronze
Priority Title & Escrow
PriorityTitleUS.com
Best Wealth Management/Financial Planning Company
Gold
Five Rings Financial Brinkman Group
This team understands that preparing for your financial future is one of the most important steps. They look for strategies to minimize taxes and create lifetime income so that you can enjoy your life now and into the future, while also securing your family’s stability in the days to come.
575 Lynnhaven Parkway, Suite 278, Virginia Beach. 757-750-1555.
FiveRingsFinancial.com
Silver
Korving & Company
KorvingCo.com
Bronze
Dominion Financial Services
DominionFinancial.org
Best Web Development
Gold
DelMar New Media
Two simple words summarize this company’s philosophy: Beauty and brains. Their leaders see those two elements as the keys to an effective website, one that grows your business, and work in partnership to develop a stunning look that shows off your brand online and delivers the results you’re looking for.
1436 S Independence Blvd., Suite 220, Virginia Beach. 757-932-7400.
DelMarNewMedia.com
Silver
MI Technical Solutions
MITechnicalSolutions.com
Bronze
TechArk Solutions
GoTechArk.com
Business Travel
Best Airline for Business Travel
Gold
Delta
Eighty thousand employees worldwide power Delta Air Lines, the U.S. global airline leader in products, services, innovation, reliability and customer experience. The airline is the world’s No. 1 carrier in total revenues, serving about 200 million travelers every year with flights for business trips and personal vacations across the globe.
Delta.com
Silver
Southwest
Southwest.com
Bronze
American Airlines
AA.com
Best Airport for Business Travel
Gold
Norfolk International Airport
Conveniently located one mile east of I-64 in Norfolk near the Virginia Beach border, Norfolk International Airport is the major airport serving Coastal Virginia and northeast North Carolina. Six airlines—Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and United—provide convenient flights connecting you directly to major cities and hubs for national and international travel.
2200 Norview Ave., Norfolk. 757- 857-3351.
NorfolkAirport.com
Silver
Richmond International Airport
FlyRichmond.com
Bronze
Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
FlyPHF.com
Best Airport Restaurant
Gold
Starbucks
Get the fuel you need to survive that early flight or keep going during a long day of travel with coffee from the always fast and delicious Starbucks. Quick bites to eat are available, along with vitamin-packed juices for those preferring a nutritious lift.
Starbucks.com
Silver
Here's to the Heroes
NorfolkAirport.com
Bronze
Great American Bagel
GreatAmericanBagel.com
Best Car Rental Company
Gold
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Make the rental process as simple as possible with Enterprise’s Hilltop location. With just a few clicks on your laptop or phone, you can reserve the ideal car for getting around town or heading out on a business trip. With additional pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the state and nationwide, you’ll find your rental experience quick and convenient.
1845 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach. 757-422-6900.
Enterprise.com
Silver
Budget Rental Car
Budget.com
Bronze
National Car Rental
NationalCar.com
Best Executive Car Service
Gold
Superior Executive Transportation
Corporate VIPs, travel agents and other busy individuals rely on Superior Executive Transportation—known as SET—to travel throughout Coastal Virginia and have done so for over a decade. They know they’re considered friends, even on the first meeting, and will receive special attention and safe transportation.
4571 Columbus St., Virginia Beach. 757-567-0353.
GetSetGo.us
Silver
Orange Peel Transportation
OrangePeelTransportation.com
Bronze
Williamsburg Chauffer Service
WilliamsburgChauffeur.com
Best Travel Agency
Gold
Expedia CruiseShipCenters
Whether you’re new to cruising or are planning your 10th voyage in 10 years, Expedia CruiseShipCenters can find a vacation to meet your needs. They have inside knowledge of popular and more off-the-beaten path destinations, experience with a number of cruise lines and even know the distinct personalities of individual ships.
1860 Laskin Road #112, Virginia Beach. 757-550-1184.
CruiseShipCenters.com
Silver
Warwick Travel Services Inc
WarwickTravel.com
Bronze
CI Azumano Travel
CIAzumano.com
Excellence in Business
Best Business Incubator/Startup Program
Gold
Suffolk Executive Offices*
With the slogan “We run your office, while you run your business,” Suffolk Executive Offices provides the support you need at the level of support right for you. If you’d like to secure your own office with a receptionist and meeting rooms, share a space or simply rely on services on an as-needed basis while using a professional address, you can—all with fellow entrepreneurs nearby to interact with.
425 W Washington St., Suffolk. 757- 925-4744.
SuffolkExecutiveOffices.com
Silver
Center for Retail Excellence
RetailAlliance.com
Bronze
StartWheel
StartWheel.org
Best Coastal Virginia-Made Food/Beverage
Gold
The Bee and The Biscuit
This small, cottage restaurant in the country relies on fresh produce grown by local farmers to serve memorable breakfasts and lunches, complete with desserts and drinks. Reservations are available for small events in this charming setting, made all the more special with cozy fireside seating in the fall and winter or outdoor dining in the spring and summer.
1785 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. 757-689-6243.
BeeBiscuit.com
Silver
The Creative Wedge: An Artisan Market
TheCreativeWedge.com
Bronze
Wasserhund Brewing Company
WasserhundBrewing.com
Best Coastal Virginia-Made Product
Gold
Academics in a Box, Inc.
Academics in a Box created Groovy Lab in a Box to encourage children ages 8 and up to channel their inner “STEMist,” the part of them that naturally embraces science, technology, engineering and math. Each box, delivered monthly with a subscription, provides a way to complete a STEM project.
1508 Sams Circle, Suite 102–536, Chesapeake. 888-938-3848.
GroovyLabInABox.com
Silver
Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que
Pierces.com
Bronze
North End Bag Company
NorthEndBagCompany.com
Best Local Company with a National Presence
Gold
Electronic Systems, Inc.
One of the largest providers of customized technology solutions in the Mid-Atlantic region, Electronic Systems, part of Xerox Business Solutions, reaches customers in Virginia Beach, Richmond, Roanoke and Chantilly. They also partner with Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Cisco, HP Inc, Dell, Lenovo and Microsoft to deliver exceptional advancements to their clients.
369 Edwin Drive, Virginia Beach. 757-497-8000.
ESI.net
Silver
Smithfield Foods Inc
SmithfieldFoods.com
Bronze
Academics in a Box, Inc.
GroovyLabInABox.com
Best New Business
Gold
Suffolk Executive Offices*
425 W Washington St., Suffolk. 757- 925-4744.
SuffolkExecutiveOffices.com
Silver
Upscale Avenues Realty Group
UpscaleAvenues.com
Bronze
Cater Boom
CaterBoom.com
Best New Local Project/Development
Gold
Town Center of Virginia Beach
Located 10 miles from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Norfolk, Town Center is conveniently situated in the heart of the region and offers a variety of businesses, shopping and entertainment choices. The resident population has grown to 934 units; hundreds of guests visit The Westin and Hilton hotels; and many more locals and tourists frequent the 1,300-seat Sandler Center and the 450,000 square feet filled with some of the top stores in Coastal Virginia.
222 Central Park Ave., Virginia Beach. 757-497-2113.
VaBeachTownCenter.com
Silver
Gather – Norfolk
WorkAtGather.com
Bronze
ViBe Creative District
VibeCreativeDistrict.org
Best Small Business
Gold
VIBEvents Group, LLC
With over 20 years of experience, these event professionals specialize in developing concepts and creating memorable corporate and special events. They plan every aspect of events whether it’s designed for team building, branding, fundraising or celebrating.
1244 Executive Blvd Ste. A-101, Chesapeake. 757-810-8371.
PlanMyVibe.com
Silver
A Glawmorous Pet Pawlor
Facebook.com/AGlawmorousPetPawlor
Bronze
Diamond Auto Detailing
Diamond-Auto-Detail.net
Meetings and Gatherings
Best After-Work Happy Hour
Gold
Grain, Hilton Norfolk The Main
Tops for views of Norfolk and Portsmouth and tops for beer selection, this beer garden caps The Hilton Norfolk The Main. Whether you choose inside or outside seating, drinks or food, your eyes and tastebuds will be satisfied with the upscale décor and dining delights and drinks presented with a laidback approach.
100 E Main St., Norfolk. 757-763-6279.
GrainNorfolk.com
Silver
Taste
Taste.Online
Bronze
Waterman's Surfside Grille
Watermans.com
Best Coffee Meeting Location
Gold
Starving Artist Cafe
Artist Kim Keene grew her art gallery, studio and frame shop into this artsy café serving breakfast and lunch and showing off the talent of fellow local creators. At night, Kim opens the space for art classes, musicians, meetings and events to further fuel creative souls with education and companionship.
4408 Colley Ave., Norfolk. 757-305-9290.
StarvingArtistNorfolk.com
Silver
Gather
WorkAtGather.com
Bronze
Three Ships Coffee Roasters
ThreeShipsCoffee.com
Best Corporate Event Caterer
Gold
Mermaid Catering
Owners Chef Julie Aubrey and Christopher Johnson bring over a decade of experience in cooking, menu planning and event execution to Mermaid Catering. Their well-trained team, with degrees from the Culinary Institute of Virginia and Johnson and Wales University, the country’s top schools, ensure every bite guests take is a delicious one and presented in a uniquely designed environment for a memorable event.
485 S Independence Blvd., Suite 108, Virginia Beach. 757-358-7904.
MermaidCatering.com
Silver
Delta Hotels by Marriott Chesapeake Norfolk
Marriott.com
Bronze
Sweetwater Cuisine
SweetwaterCuisine.com
Best Delivered Lunch
Gold
Gourmet Gang
Enjoy uniquely imaginative and top-notch ingredients when indulging in the lunch provided by this experienced team. With more than 27 years in the business, Gourmet Gang knows what people need midday for a boost of energy and a mini-treat to keep on working.
Gourmet Gang has locations throughout Coastal Virginia. 757-857-6100, Ext. 1.
GourmetGang.com
Silver
TASTE
Taste.Online
Bronze
Mermaid Catering
MermaidCatering.com
Best Event Planner
Gold
The Happy Hour Hostess
The three professionals behind The Happy Hour Hostess, with expertise in event planning (weddings, corporate events, birthdays and more), floral arrangement and graphic design, have earned rave reviews from clients: “I couldn't imagine anything more perfect. There was not a moment of stress on my end.” “Took all our worries away.” “Professional and extremely knowledgeable in every aspect of their industry.”
757-773-5351.
TheHappyHourHostess.com
Silver
VIBEvents Group
PlanMyVibe.com
Bronze
Mermaid Catering
MermaidCatering.com
Best Golf Course for Business Outings
Gold
Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club
For over 90 years, the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club has been one of the best places for Coastal Virginians to connect and celebrate, either for a casual meal, a once-in-a-lifetime family-and-friends event or a business-solidifying round of golf in a pristine setting.
1052 Cardinal Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. 757-428-3131.
CavalierGYC.com
Silver
Greenbrier Country Club
ClubCorp.com
Bronze
Kiskiack Golf Club
KiskiackGC.com
Best Hotel for Business Travel
Gold
Norfolk Hilton The Main
In the heart of Norfolk, this swanky high-rise is a step above even most big-city gems. Views of the Elizabeth River, Norfolk and Portsmouth tempt guests to stay put in the hotel, but if they manage to pull themselves away, they’ll find it easy to reach their destination from this conveniently located upscale hotel.
100 E Main St., Norfolk. 757-763-6200.
TheMainNorfolk.com
Silver
Delta Hotels by Marriott Chesapeake Norfolk
Marriott.com
Bronze
The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center
Marriott.com
Best Local Teambuilding Experience
Gold
Escape Room
You have only yourself, your team and your collective wit to figure out the mystery in front of you—and escape the room you’ve entered within 60 minutes. Solve puzzles, look for clues and find the missing links to free your group—and get to know yourself and your fellow adventurers better in the process.
408 Investors Place, Suite 107, Virginia Beach. 757-228-7577.
EscapeRoomVirginiaBeach.com
Silver
Topgolf
Topgolf.com/US/Virginia-Beach
Bronze
iFLY Va Beach, Indoor Skydiving
IFlyWorld.com/Virginia-Beach
Best Lunch Meeting Location
Gold
Luminous Restaurant and Lounge*
In this restaurant in the newly remodeled Delta Hotel, part of the Marriott family, contemporary décor meets a convenient location. Diners are provided with the ideal setting for those looking for a stylish locale for a lunch sure to wow clients and further business relationships.
725 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake. 757-523-1500.
Marriott.com
Silver
TASTE in Ghent
Taste.Online/Locations/Ghent
Bronze
Varia
VariaNorfolk.com
Best Networking Event
Gold
BizConnect Hampton Roads*
Connecting with potential clients is easier as a member of BizConnect Hampton Roads, which hosts events open to all Coastal Virginia movers and shakers, and provides vital support with marketing and public relations education and services. Meet fellow business owners and learn how your can assist each other in growing your career or small business.
318 W 21st St., Norfolk. 757-927-5200.
BizConnectHR.com
Silver
Retail Alliance Meet & Greets
RetailAlliance.com
Bronze
BNI Southeastern VA
BNI-SeVa.com
Best Place for Business Meetings/Conferences
Gold
Delta Hotels by Marriott Chesapeake Norfolk*
Delta Hotels Chesapeake Norfolk upgraded its interior recently for a welcoming and sophisticated look added to its already comfortable meeting rooms designed for professionals needing today’s technology. With its central location in the Greenbrier section of Chesapeake, locals and travelers alike will find it easy to access with nearby after-work entertainment as well.
725 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake. 757-523-1500.
Marriott.com
Silver
Hilton Norfolk The Main
TheMainNorfolk.com
Bronze
Sweet Magnolias at Sweetwater Cuisine
SweetwaterCuisine.com
Best Place to Close a Deal
Gold
BizConnect Hampton Roads*
318 W 21st St., Norfolk. 757-927-5200.
BizConnectHR.com
Silver
Luminous Restaurant and Lounge
Marriott.com
Bronze
Saltine
SaltineNorfolk.com
Best Restaurant for Business Dinners
Gold
Luminous Restaurant and Lounge
725 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake. 757-523-1500.
Marriott.com
Silver
Varia
VariaNorfolk.com
Bronze
Ruth's Chris Steak House
RuthsChris.com
Best Small Venue for Meetings and Events
Gold
Delta Hotels by Marriott Chesapeake Norfolk*
725 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake. 757-523-1500.
Marriott.com
Silver
Meet@319 - The Essex Building
VIADesignArchitects.com
Bronze
Sweet Magnolias at Sweetwater Cuisine
SweetwaterCuisine.com
Best Sporting Event to Take Clients To
Gold
Norfolk Tides
The farm team for the Baltimore Orioles competes in a Downtown Norfolk stadium with water views, easy parking and tempting food, all perfect for getting to know potential and trusted clients better in a casual setting. Day and night games, during the week and weekends, give you the ultimate flexibility in finding a time that works for everyone who needs to step out of the office, while still advancing their careers.
140 Park Ave., Norfolk. 757-622-2222.
MILB.com/Norfolk
Silver
ODU Football Games
ODUSports.com
Bronze
Norfolk Admirals Hockey
NorfolkAdmirals.com
Best Young Professionals Network
Gold
LEAD Hampton Roads*
Coordinated by the Hampton Roads Chamber, LEAD is a combination of three programs for Coastal Virginia’s leaders and emerging leaders. Whether you’re a high schooler already thinking about how to leave a legacy, a younger professional aged 21–29 looking for specific leadership training or a more experienced professional striving to widen your circle of influence, LEAD presents the training and opportunities for you.
500 E Main St., Norfolk. 757-622-5563.
LeadHamptonRoads.net
Silver
tHRive, The Young Professionals of the Hampton Roads Chamber
HamptonRoadsChamber.com/Page/Thrive
Bronze
CBDX
TheCBDX.com
Professional Development
Best Business School
Gold
Old Dominion University*
The Strome College of Business at Old Dominion University welcomes top undergraduate and graduate students preparing to meet today and tomorrow’s business challenges. Faculty and local business leaders guide students to impact Coastal Virginia in areas vital to our community, including maritime and supply chain management. They also foster a spirit of entrepreneurship and encourage new business development.
2004 Constant Hall, Norfolk. 757-683-3520.
ODU.edu/Business
Silver
South University
Go.SouthUniversity.edu
Bronze
Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William and Mary
Mason.WM.edu
Best Executive Training
Gold
LEAD Hampton Roads*
500 E Main St., Norfolk. 757-622-5563.
LeadHamptonRoads.net
Silver
Dale Carnegie
DaleCarnegie.com
Best MBA Program
Gold
Old Dominion University*
2004 Constant Hall, Norfolk. 757-683-3520.
ODU.edu/Business
Silver
Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William and Mary
Mason.WM.edu
Bronze
Saint Leo University
Info.Online.SaintLeo.edu
Best Professional Development Workshop
Gold
Woodard Associates - Julie Woodard*
757-769-6138.
Woodard-Associates.com
Silver
LEAD Hampton Roads
LeadHamptonRoads.net
Bronze
Retail Alliance STRIVE workshops
RetailAlliance.com
People in Business
Best Local Entrepreneur
Xerxes L. Nabong*
Almost 20 years ago, Xerxes Nabong co-founded Virginia Financial Planning to recommend options for employers and affluent individuals looking to build retirement and investment income and choose sound insurance coverage. In addition to assisting his clients, he sits on the leadership board of the American Diabetes Association of Hampton Roads and is a founding member of the Beach Ambassadors, a grassroots group supporting charities through events.
Virginia Financial Planning is located at 4669 South Blvd., Suite 105, Virginia Beach. 757-394-3486 Ext. 302.
VaFinancialPlanning.com
Best Local Leader Making a Difference
Laura Henderson - BizConnect Hampton Roads
Laura Henderson created BizConnect Hampton Roads after more than 15 years at Pilot Media. The networking and marketing/public relations group grew from her business WIN LOCAL STUFF, which promotes retail stores, restaurants, artists, service providers and more. She is a member of the Hampton Roads Chamber, Downtown Norfolk Council, the Retail Alliance, LOVEVA, Hampton Roads Business Outreach, the Ghent Business Association and serves on the Board of the Ghent Business Association, VisitNorfolk and Troopster Donations.
BizConnect Hampton Roads is located at 318 W 21st St., Norfolk, VA 23517. 757-927-5200.
BizConnectHR.com
Best Salesperson
Matt Tuttle - Total Business Solutions, Inc.
Matt is vice president of Total Business Solutions, Inc. and gives back to both his business and personal communities with a long list of leadership and civic engagement: The Portsmouth Partnership Executive Board, recruitment chair; Young Executive Symposium (Yes!), SP Richards Company; Vann H. Lefcoe Leadership Development Program; Groupe Lacasse VIP Office Furniture Dealer Association; Art Jones Memorial Golf Tournament Committee; The Portsmouth Assembly; Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Art Show; and Virginia Tech Monogram Club (Football Alumni).
Total Business Solutions is located at 3413 Griffin St., Portsmouth. 757-398-8312.
TotalBusinessSolutions.com
Best Social Media Personality
Naoma Doriguzzi
A social media consultant and blogger, Naoma strategizes with small businesses to maximize their reach online. She reports on the latest social media applications, technology and trends on Saturday mornings on WVEC-13. She is passionate about giving back to the community and consults with several nonprofits.
NaomaDoriguzzi.com
Business Person of the Year
Julie Woodard*
757-769-6138.
Woodard-Associates.com
Innovator of the Year
Chelsea Mandello – Troopster
U.S. Navy Petty Officer Chelsea Mandello founded Troopster while serving as a Navy photojournalist. Her goal was to make it easy for family and friends to send care packages to loved ones and for those loved ones to receive the packages quickly. Mandello knew firsthand the heartache of opening a package, only to be met with expired or melted contents. Troopster provides one-stop shopping and shipping services and masterfully understands the military mail system.
Troopster.org
Outstanding Emerging Professional
Xerxes L. Nabong*
Virginia Financial Planning is located at 4669 South Blvd., Suite 105, Virginia Beach. 757-394-3486 Ext. 302.
VaFinancialPlanning.com
Top CEO
Ben Young
As president and CEO of Hybrid Air Inc., Ben is committed to the quality and reliability of Trane products. He appreciates the stringent requirements Trane places on dealers for customer service and business practices. Starting in the field at the early age of 15, he opened his own business and later folded in his family’s business.
753 Voyager Court, Virginia Beach. 757-436-3749.
HybridAirUSA.com
Top Seasoned Pro
Veronica Thompson - VIBEvents Group
Veronica Thompson is president/CEO of VIBEvents Group, an award-winning event planning agency in Chesapeake. Her team develops event concepts and creates memorable experiences for corporate and special events. Events can be tailored for team building, branding or fundraising so customers receive the look and feel they desire.
1244 Executive Blvd., Ste. A-101, Chesapeake. 757-810-8371.
PlanMyVibe.com
Young Business Person of the Year
Xerxes L. Nabong*
Virginia Financial Planning is located at 4669 South Blvd., Suite 105, Virginia Beach. 757-394-3486 Ext. 302.
VaFinancialPlanning.com
