Articles Tagged "Local businesses"

The Christmas season is here, and it's time to find those special holiday gifts for your family and friends. Our real estate agents know that Southport is a wonderful place to call home, and it's also filled with an abundance of great gift shops for holiday shopping. We want to recommend some of our favorite shops where you'll find a variety of special Christmas gifts for everyone on your list.

• Coastal Cottage Shop
  If you're looking for a gift with coastal flair, head over to the Coastal Cottage Shop, where you'll find an assortment of lovely gifts that are everything coastal. This shop is filled with unique gifts, including upcycled furniture that's painted and upholstered, home decor items like china, linens, kitchen items, lamps, and household accessories. You'll also find an assortment of good coffee table books, custom jewelry items, artwork by local artists, and special holiday-themed gifts to celebrate the season.

• Mad River Studio
  If you're currently living in Southport or looking for Southport homes for sale with coastal views, be sure to make Mad River Studio your first stop. This store specializes in home design for coastal living. When you walk into the store, you'll be greeted by furniture and accessory items that reflect a comfortable coastal cottage interior. You can browse the showroom for floor items or request an in-home design for someone special on your Christmas list. Before you leave, be sure to say hello to Sailor and Fish, the two adorable shop dogs who just love getting treats.

• Magnolia's of Southport
  Magnolia's of Southport is a family-owned business that specializes in home decor and garden items, ladies' apparel, handbags, and accessories, custom jewelry from local artists, delightful greeting cards, and a variety of gifts. Magnolia's is a small comfortable shop that offers a personalized touch with lovely owners who will help you find the perfect holiday gift for family and friends. Magnolia's is open year-round, so plan a holiday visit this season to find a special Christmas gift for the lady of the house.

• Olde Southport Village Shops
  If you want to explore some unique shops with a charming atmosphere, don't miss a visit to the Olde Southport Village Shops. You can spend a relaxing afternoon browsing through a row of quaint little houses that contain everything from home décor, antiques and collectibles, artwork and hand-made pottery, hand-made jams and jellies, food and beverages, and Christmas candies and cookies. During the holiday season, you can even enjoy a Christmas festival with music, Santa, and some special holiday goodies.

• Southport Wine Rack
  For that person on your list who has everything, plan a shopping trip to the Southport Wine Rack located in the heart of historic downtown Southport, just across the street from the Southport Water Tower. This is a quaint shop that offers a big selection of wines from around the world, as well as tasty craft and imported beers. For a special holiday gift, take a friend to a free wine-tasting event or gift them a membership to the Wine Club, which offers invitations to "Members Only" events and special discounts on bottles of wine. The Wine Rack is the perfect place for a unique holiday experience and world-class Christmas spirits.

If you're thinking about a move to Southport, contact us to explore available properties with coastal views and great amenities. Let us help you find the home of your dreams this holiday season.

Moving to the southeastern coast of North Carolina means acclimating yourself to the most beloved dishes and cuisine of the local area. For those of us in Brunswick County, and the low country of North Carolina, this usually involves falling in love with seafood. And, one of the most popular seafoods during the fall and winter is a salty, briny oyster.

Enjoy Oysters at Area Restaurants

Lucky residents of Southport, Oak Island and the surrounding areas can find these salty delicacies in numerous establishments. A few to note include:

Moore Street Oyster Bar

Earning its name from its extensive menu of oysters and fresh seafood, this popular spot can be found along the downtown streets of Southport. Pop in for a quick bite while shopping or visiting the waterfront. Be sure to order The Kathryn with artichoke, white wine, parmesan cream sauce and basil or the Simply Southern with collards, ham, and bacon topped with pimento cheese.

Shagger Jack's

Featuring an assorted menu with some quality cajun flair, Shagger Jack's is a local and tourist favorite with indoor and outdoor (dog-friendly) seating. Lightly fried oysters can be ordered as a platter with cole slaw and fries, or as a po'boy sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles and house-made remoulade.

Fishy Fishy

Seated right on the Intracoastal Waterway, boasting gorgeous sunset views is Fishy Fishy Restaurant. With dock side service available and a menu offering everything from delicious appetizers to seafood platters, you're sure to find something for the seafood lovers and non-seafood lovers in your crew! Opt for the highly-sought after seafood plate or add their mouth-watering oysters to any salad.

Island Way

Is there any other way than the Island Way? This oceanfront restaurant neighbors Ocean Crest Fishing Pier and offers some of the best views of any place in Brunswick County. Featuring steaks and seafood, be sure to stop by for a romantic dinner and to grab their oysters on the half shell before diving into your meal!

Enjoy Oysters at Home

Oysters can be enjoyed a variety of different ways like on the raw bar, steamed, fried or roasted. The only thing that stands in your way from devouring these filters of the ocean is the act of shucking (opening) the oysters. While the process seems intimidating, it's actually very simple.

Shuck in Six: 6 Steps to Shucking an Oyster

1. Protect. Use a thick cloth, kitchen towel or gloves to cover and protect your hands from the sharp shells and oyster knife.
2. Place. Using your non-dominant covered hand, hold the oyster with the hinge facing you.
3. Pressure. Using the oyster knife, gradually apply pressure and oscillate around the hinge to try and insert the knife into the hinge of the shell.
4. Cut. Once the knife enters the hinge of the shell, reach straight into the oyster for the adductor and make one clean cut across the adductor.
5. Open. Using the oyster knife, open the oyster and rinse it lightly to remove any broken shell pieces.
6. Decide. You can test the oyster by poking it around the lips to see if it's alive as it should retract. The oyster should smell fresh and like the ocean but not overly fishy or bad. If the oyster smells bad, or does not retract when poked, do not eat it. If the oyster is good to go, just decide on how you want to prepare to eat this delicacy!

Celebrate the Oyster

While oysters are technically harvested between October and March, they can be enjoyed year round. In Brunswick County, we celebrate all that is the oyster during the NC Oyster Festival. This annual family-friendly event includes everything from an oyster roast and arts and crafts festival to a full entertainment line-up and so much more!

Enjoy Oysters In Your Brunswick County Home

Living in Brunswick County is about so much more than just enjoying oysters. Whether you're looking for the perfect second home with a bit of coastal charm or you want to know what island life is all about, reach out to Margaret Rudd & Associates, Inc., REALTORS® today to learn more about living in Brunswick County, North Carolina. Be sure to check out the current available listings on our website to find your new Brunswick County dream home today! 

Southport is a historic city filled with old-world charm, maritime museums, and coastal communities with waterfront views. Although it feels like a small seaport town, our real estate agents know Southport offers homeowners a relaxing lifestyle with job opportunities, excellent schools, and a variety of outdoor activities.

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Everybody has their own pasta favorite. With October 17th being National Pasta Day, it's time to celebrate at a good Italian restaurant. If you are planning on moving to the Southport, North Carolina area, our real estate agents can give you a head start. They know many of the most popular Italian eateries in the area and often recommend them to their clients.

• Bella Cucina – Bella Cucina offers authentic Italian food for both dining-in and carry-out orders. For almost 20 years, the De Meo family has been preparing Tuscan-style cuisine using recipes that have been passed down for several generations.

• Falcone's Italian Restaurant Southport – Falcone's Italian Restaurant Southport offers a full menu of Italian foods, including a variety of pasta dishes. When you want a good, filling meal, bring the entire family to Falcone's. If you prefer to eat at home after a long day, call in for a carry-out order. For over 35 years, the family-owned restaurant has been providing authentic Italian food to Southport area residents.

• Bambini's Italian Restaurant – Bambini's Italian Restaurant has quickly earned a reputation for being the best Italian restaurant in the Southport area. The restaurant opened in 2018 and offers a variety of pasta dishes, Italian favorites, and specialty desserts. They even offer the most authentic New York Style pizza in North Carolina. Dine-in or carry-out options are available. It's a great place to take the whole family or if you want to spend a little quiet time with your significant other.

• Castucci's – Castucci's is an Italian eatery that never ceases to amaze. The chef is also the owner and uses his own family recipes to create some of the best Italian food in the area. If you are out looking at Southport homes for sale, Castucci's is where to go to relax and wind down after a long day of house hunting. Your kids have their own menu, and you have the option of dining in or ordering carry-out. The atmosphere is inviting, and everyone is sure to have a good time.

• Joseph's Italian Bistro – Joseph's Italian Bistro sits on the edge of the water and is ideal for private parties or if you want to take your loved one out on a special date. Indoor or outdoor seating is available, and if you want special treatment, you can become a VIP! Authentic Italian cuisine is something to rave about. You can also choose one of their many wines to add to your dinner.

If you live in the Southport area or are thinking about moving, contact our agents right away. They can fill you in on all of the best Italian restaurants and show you several houses that meet your specifications. All of our agents have years of experience and know Southport and the surrounding communities. When you want to find a home, choose a realtor that offers a personal touch! We will always go the extra mile to ensure the home that best suits your needs.

Southport, NC, offers a wealth of dining options, including flavors and cuisines from all over the globe. There's great food here for every taste, and if you have a hankering for some next-level fried rice, be sure to check out our real estate agents' favorite Asian restaurants in Southport!

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National Cheeseburger Day is one of those holidays that our real estate agents can really get behind. We're lucky to have some really exceptional burger restaurants here in the Southport, NC area, and in honor of National Cheeseburger Day on September 18, we're here to share our favorites!

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Now that you're settling into the house you chose from Southport homes for sale, you're going to want to get out and see what's available locally — particularly when it comes to wining and dining. Maybe you did some scouting before you bought your home, just so you'd know what's a short drive from home base for dining and entertainment. But if you've been too busy getting moved in to explore, our real estate agents can help. Have a look at some of the top spots for wine and dinner in Southport.

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Whether you're searching for a new home or making improvements to your existing residence, creativity helps you open your mind and expand your problem-solving skills. Tap into your creative side by visiting some of Southport's top destinations for art, music, and crafts. Our real estate agents suggest exploring these inspired spots in the Southport area.

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For those new to the Southport area, congratulations! Not only do you have your new home from Southport homes for sale to enjoy, but you've also got myriad attractions nearby. The area is a gateway to wonders, with beaches, a maritime town, fishing, golfing, kayaking, and exciting historical and cultural attractions. Whether you're outdoorsy or more of a shopping/dining aficionado, you can find something that will call to you at Southport.

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Looking for a place to celebrate this Saint Patrick's Day? You're in luck. The Southport area is home to some great local watering holes. These are our real estate agents' favorite places to enjoy a frosty pint on St. Patty's Day in Southport!

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Thousands of people love to travel to Southport each year, and some even make it their home. Southport is famous for its charming atmosphere, serene ocean breezes, and gorgeous scenery; it's also a fantastic spot to grab delicious American eats.

Our real estate agents suggest taking a few hours to enjoy some of Southport's top eateries. Here are a few can't-miss spots.

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One of our real estate agents' favorite things to do in Southport is perusing the many great local businesses in the city. Local business is often one of the biggest factors that makes a place unique, with one-of-a-kind products, and more importantly one-of-a-kind people you just can't find anywhere else. This is true for Southport, and the best place you can see this for yourself is on Howe Street. Cutting straight through the heart of Southport before finishing right on the water, Howe Street is the perfect display of what makes Southport so great to the people who live here. And if you're in the mood for shopping or just for finding something new, look no further than these uniquely Southport businesses.

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Things really heat up during summertime in the Southport area, and our real estate agents have the perfect solution. Cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth at one of these great local ice cream shops!

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There's a lot to see and do in Southport! With a vibrant Downtown district just footsteps away from the water, Southport offers all kinds of fun shopping and dining options. Sometimes our real estate agents just like to walk around Downtown Southport and take it all in, and these are some of our favorite local businesses to check out.

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Our real estate agents love talking to clients about their plans for decorating their new homes. While there's nothing wrong with modern decor, it's always so much fun to visit local vintage and antique stores searching for one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you're still exploring Southport homes for sale or you're already settled into your home, we recommend taking a look at some of the great shops in the area. Each shop listed below is located near Waterfront Park. We recommend stopping by to visit each one and making a day of exploring the area.

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Is that love we smell in the air…or just the amazing cuisine of Southport? Perhaps a bit of both! Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and our real estate agents encourage you to start thinking about your dinner plans ahead of time. As Cupid draws back his bow, peruse the menus at these Southport restaurants perfect for couples planning to celebrate Valentine's Day with takeout.

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Winter is in the air. It's true that we don't see much in the way of snow down here on the North Carolina coast, but that doesn't lessen our holiday cheer one bit. Our real estate agents are always excited to help support local businesses here in Brunswick County. And with the holidays on the horizon, we thought we'd share some of our favorite local shops to find gifts for someone special on your list!

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National Go to An Art Museum Day is coming up on Monday, November 9th, and our real estate agents want to be sure you know your options!

Brunswick County isn't only known for the famous lighthouse you'll find a short distance from Oak Island homes for sale. As a resident here, there's always more to see and do. Galleries and museums allow you to learn while enjoying the works of contemporary and historic artists from around the area.

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October is National Seafood Month, so what better time to enjoy savory sustainable seafood straight from the North Carolina coast. One of the best things about living in Brunswick County is the easy access to some of the best seafood in the country. With so many seafood markets and retail stores serving-up fresh-caught seafood, you can easily get high-quality products to make your favorite dishes. If you're looking for recommendations on where to pick up seafood this October, check out these local favorites.

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The first frozen treats date back thousands of years, when people of the Persian Empire poured grape juice over handfuls of snow and stored it in underground chambers to prevent melting. Ice cream has come a long way since then, but we still enjoy its creamy sweetness year-round.

Our real estate agents are looking forward to one of their favorite holidays when National Ice Cream Day occurs on Sunday, July 19th. Join the celebration with a trip to one of these popular ice cream spots around Southport.

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These days, it feels like cooking dinner night after night is almost impossible. Trust us, our real estate agents are also getting a little bored with the same skillet servings and microwave meals. Thankfully, so many of our favorite restaurants around Brunswick County are saving the day with their takeout services. Close your kitchen for the night, and treat your family to a delicious dish from one of these popular Southport eateries.

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Anyone with a green thumb has a lot to look forward to in the Southport area this spring. Our REALTORS® are always excited to see young plants popping up all over town, and now is a great time to revamp your lawn and garden. 

If you're looking for some new additions to your garden this spring, be sure to check out these great local greenhouses in and around Southport, NC.

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Dining out is even more special when you can share the experience with your best friend. Our real estate agents have put together a list of their favorite dog-friendly restaurants in the Southport area.

1. Fishy Fishy Café - 106 Yacht Basin Dr., Southport, NC 28461
   Seafood is the centerpiece of North Carolina cuisine, and it doesn't get better than Fishy Fishy Café. Dine on coconut shrimp, lobster mac and cheese or Cajun crab cakes as you and Fido enjoy a stunning sunset view from the waterfront deck. Stop in after a Saturday of touring Southport homes for sale to get the prime rib special. Hours are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when closing time is 9 p.m. 

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Whether you're inspired by a beautiful painting or love the look of blown glass in your home, art is something that brings people together and sparks our imaginations. Southport has a unique, thriving arts community that's bound to pique your interest. There's no better way to celebrate Inspire Your Heart with Art Day on January 31st than by visiting local galleries and studios. Art lovers searching for Southport homes for sale often ask about where to find the perfect piece to help make their new house a home. Our real estate agents enjoy supporting local artists, so here are a few of our fave galleries and studios.

1. Southport Mudpuddle Pottery Studio, 4002 Executive Park Blvd SE, Ste. 600B (rear), Southport, NC 28461
   This cool co-op features six local artists who make unique handcrafted pottery. Check it out and pick up a one-of-a-kind piece mug or vase to complement your kitchen or living room. Mudpuddle Pottery Studio is open by appointment and the first and third Saturdays of each month from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Tuesdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
2. Uncorked by the Sea Wine Shop & Gallery, 602 N. Howe St., Southport, NC 28461
   Sip on a glass of vino or a beer while checking out all types of artwork by hand-picked local and regional artists. Want to connect with other art and wine lovers in the community? Enjoy wine, art, and good company Thursday nights at Uncorked by the Sea's weekly wine tasting events! Donations support local Brunswick County charities.

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The holidays are here, and there's a good chance you still have some shopping that needs completed. Rather than rushing around town in search of gifts, narrow your search to these fabulous area shops. Our REALTORS® recommend these "go-to" places where you are guaranteed to find the perfect gift.

1. Uncorked by the Sea - 602 N Howe St, Southport, NC 28461
   You can't go wrong with wine for that hard to shop for family member. Uncorked by the Sea features plenty of wines, local art, and unique gifts. If you know anyone who is about to purchase one of the Southport homes for sale, it's the perfect place to pick up a housewarming gift.

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National Cheeseburger Day will soon be upon us! (September 18th, to be exact) There are countless variations of this quintessentially American treat. In Southport, many places serve up substantial, savory cheeseburgers. So while you're around town, checking out Southport homes for sale, take a break and get a taste at one of our REALTORS® favorite burger joints!

1. Fat Andy's Burgers - 4655 Long Beach Road SE, Southport, NC 28461
   Fat Andy's simple menu features hot, juicy burgers and fries. Also, if you're more of a hot dog person, they have those too. With fast, friendly service and an outdoor dining area, it's the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner.
2. Old Bridge Diner - 132 Country Club Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465
   From omelets to salads to a patty melt that's to die for, this local diner has something for everyone. In addition to classic burgers, they offer southern specialties like fried okra, biscuits and gravy and hushpuppies. Old Bridge Diner is open for breakfast and lunch, so stop by and fill up before peeking at some fabulous Oak Island homes for sale.
3. Loco Jo's Bar & Grill - 602 N. Howe St. # E, Southport, NC 28461
   A laid-back bar & grill that's a local favorite.

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Are you considering a move to Southport? If so, you'll probably be spending some time in town shopping our great selection of Southport homes for sale. Given the beauty of the area and its coastlines, it would be a shame to make that visit all about business. You'd certainly be missing out if you didn't make time to sample the local cuisine while you're here, most especially the fresh seafood for which our area is known. If you're particularly partial to oysters, you'll find them in abundance at local eateries, including these 5 Southport restaurants:

1. Moore Street Oyster Bar, 110 E. Moore St., Southport
   A very popular and modern eatery, Moore Street Oyster Bar offers a great selection of delicious oyster creations. If you have trouble choosing among them, you can try them all by ordering their generous sample platter, which features two of every hot-topped oyster variety on the menu.

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Our REALTORS® know all the things that make the neighborhoods we represent great places to live. There are unique places to dine out with friends and spend an evening. Places to enjoy nature or the beach. And plenty of places to get in a little exercise.

Practicing yoga has been linked to many health benefits. It can increase flexibility, balance, and strength. It can help with weight loss. And probably one of the most significant benefits is helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Whether you're a long time enthusiast, looking to change up your fitness routine, or just want to take a break from looking at Southport homes for sale you can find the class that's right for you.

• Southport Yoga Dock - 317 W Bay St., Southport, NC 28461
  Southport Yoga Dock offers Hatha and Vinyasa yoga classes with local instructors. Classes are held on a covered open-air dock with the sound of gentle waves and ocean breeze as a backdrop. It's a great way to help you relax and connect with nature. Choose a morning class or a sunset class.

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Mother's Day is coming up soon, and you might be wondering how to show the special moms in your life just how much you care. Our REALTORS® recommend taking them out for lunch or dinner at one of the area's excellent waterfront restaurants. Here are five locations that are guaranteed to give you a memorable experience. 

1. Provision Company - 130 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport, NC 28461
   Located in downtown Southport, Provision Company (called Provisions by the locals) overlooks the Old Yacht Basin and provides excellent views of the Intercoastal Waterway. This casual dining spot is great for enjoying a cold beer with some crab cakes and conch fritters. While you're in the area, we suggest taking a drive around to look at some of the beautiful Southport homes for sale.  

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Our REALTORS® know how important the Easter holiday is to so many of our clients. Southport families adorn their homes with colorful decorations and cherish the moments spent watching their young ones find their Easter baskets. If you're considering browsing our Southport homes for sale, we invite you to get to know the area on a Sunday morning by visiting one of these amazing Southport eateries for brunch.

1. Locals Family Diner - 832 N. Howe St., Southport, NC 28461
   What are your family's Easter traditions? Church service, egg painting or basket hunting? Locals Family Diner invites you to create more memories with your kids with a delicious brunch at one of Southport's favorite restaurants. Try their delicious Eggs Benedict or a classic dish order of biscuits and gravy. With special menu options for children and seniors, Locals Family Diner is the perfect place for Easter breakfast with the entire family.

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Starting the New Year in a new home is the best way to get 2019 off on the right foot. As you ponder the possibilities of new curtains and furniture, there is a good chance you are also thinking about creating a new you. As you consider the physical fitness goals you want to achieve in the coming year, the following are five Brunswick County gyms that can help make your dreams a reality.

1. Crossfit Ocean Isle Beach - 570 Meadow Summit Drive, Suite 17, Ocean Isle Beach
   Crossfit Ocean Isle Beach offers more than just exercise; they provide a way of life. When you sign up for this rigorous program, you will find yourself surrounded by a team of people who will help you reach your goals. The workouts are intense, and the results are undeniable. Crossfit works every muscle and organ, the most important of which is your brain. As your training progresses, you will adopt a mindset that will help you settle into one of the many Ocean Isle Beach homes for sale.
   
   

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Every neighborhood has its hidden (and sometimes not-so-hidden) gems that make the area a great place to live. Here are seven delicious bakeries in Brunswick County that will tempt, delight, and tantalize your taste buds. 

1. SeaSide Wine & Gourmet — 6600 Beach Drive SW, Ocean Isle Beach
   So there you are, cruising around on the lookout for Ocean Isle Beach homes for sale when you realize you are famished (or perhaps you're parched?). A stop at SeaSide Wine & Gourmet is just the pick-me-up any house hunter needs. 
   
   

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The holiday season is brimming with joy and excitement, and along with the merriment comes the hustle and bustle of seasonal shopping. Make your shopping endeavors a bit brighter this year by visiting some of Brunswick County's shops and boutiques. With gifts for practically everyone on your list (don't forget yourself!), these shops are our absolute favorites for holiday decor and more.

• The Christmas House - 104 W Moore St., Southport, NC 
  After you've looked at homes for sale in Southport, be sure to visit The Christmas House and discover a magical shopping adventure full of all things Christmas. Find a fantastic selection of decorative Christmas items including wreaths, garland, and ornaments, as well as a huge assortment of rustic and whimsical gift ideas. The Christmas House has fun and engaging toys for the little ones on your list, and you won't want to miss their great variety of old-fashioned candy to satisfy the sweet tooth and bring back memories of yesteryears.

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