BEST FLORIST
BLOOM SHAKALAKA
640 E Main St, Lakeland (Inside The Joinery)
(863) 417-3007
FB: @bloom.shakalaka1
IG @bloom.shakalaka
Have you stopped to smell the roses lately? Bloom Shakalaka is a funky fresh flower shop and gift boutique started by Laura Helm. They offer flower wraps and arrangements, wearables, full-service event florals, subscriptions, and a pick-your-stems flower bar. Need some peonies in a pinch? They offer next-day delivery in the Lakeland area! “At Bloom Shakalaka, we want to be known as the funky, fresh flower shop whose mission is to spread joy. We believe that every single bloom is a miracle of both strength and hope - and we love getting to offer that to others.”
2nd: Flower Cart Florist
3rd: Golden Wild Florals
BEST WEDDING VENUE
HAUS 820
820 N Massachusetts Ave, Lakeland
(888) 428-7820
FB: Haus 820
IG @haus820
This renovated historic warehouse is a blank canvas for clients to make their own. It’s a wedding spot for the cool kids. Haus 820 is an industrial chic event venue built in 1924 as an A&P grocery store, then a furniture warehouse, before it was brought back to its roots and restored, including original wall-to-wall white brick, 17-foot exposed rafters, and charcoal-stained and sealed cement floors. In addition to the main spacious area, Haus 820 features a permanent 16-foot bar, catering finishing kitchen, restrooms, and a bridal suite in the building next door with private bathrooms. The private courtyard was created from the original loading docks and is perfect for a sunny afternoon ceremony or vows under the stars.
2nd: Bonnet Springs Park
3rd: White Horse Venue
BEST PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER
WERLOSTBOYS MEDIA COLLABORATIVE
FB: werlostboys
IG @werlostboys
This Lakeland media collaborative was started in 2019 when freelancing videographer Cole Adams teamed up with photographer and entrepreneur Earnest J. Odom. Together they formed a film production and creative agency. Since partnering with Lakeland event series Buena Market, over 50 clients have seen their visions materialize through werlostboys’ photography, videography, and design services. “Our team of experienced photographers, filmmakers, and designers strive to create unique visuals that truly capture the essence of each story. From promotional videos for small businesses to event highlight reels for organizations in the community, we are dedicated to delivering stunning images and videos that showcase the best of what Lakeland has to offer.”
2nd: Jonicia Rodrigues
3rd: Tina Sargeant Photography
BEST EVENT ENTERTAINMENT
DREAMS COME TRUE ENTERTAINMENT
214 Traders Alley, Lakeland
(863) 944-1264
FB @DreamsComeTrueEntertainment
IG @dctemagicalmemories
It’s all in the name! Dreams Come True Entertainment sets out to create magic for party-goers by providing character entertainment for all ages. After all, “all it takes is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust.” They can make an appearance at your private party, host your private event at their Enchanted Fairytale Hollow, or you can join them for weekly and monthly events! Award-winning custom-made costumes and experienced actors bring an unmatched level of authenticity to each fairytale and superhero character. Owner Amy Sharpe says, “It has always been my dream to make children happy and make a difference in their lives, and with my new company, now I can do that while doing something I love and bring magic and hope into hearts young and old. I strive my hardest to be the most memorable, authentic, and fun entertainer you ever meet!”
2nd: Momma and Friends Brunch Show (Rose Dynasty Foundation)
3rd: Graingertainment
BEST FUNERAL SERVICES
HEATH FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORY
328 S Ingraham Ave, Lakeland
(863) 682-0111
FB: Heath Funeral Chapel & Crematory
“Funeral care that’s state-of-the-heart.” Heath Funeral Chapel has been family-owned and operated since 1959. In addition to their Best Of LKLD win this year, Heath has been honored numerous times with the Pursuit of Excellence Award by the National Funeral Directors Association. “Heath has been continuously recognized for professional, ethical excellence and for providing quality, compassionate care, and aftercare to all families served.” That care is reflected in their many glowing reviews. One heartfelt review reads, “Heath Funeral Chapel took great care of our family and helped us through the very hard times you face after the death of a loved one. We have used their services twice since 2020 and they have been professional and keep in frequent contact during the steps in the cremation and service process.”
2nd: Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes
3rd: Coney Funeral Home
BEST DRY CLEANER
GARMENT CARE PROS AT SOUTHSIDE CLEANERS
901 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(Second location in Plant City)
(863) 688-4747
FB @SouthsideCleaners
The clever signs draw you in – the quality dry cleaning services keep your business. Garment Care Pros at Southside Cleaners continues to be a Best Of LKLD voter favorite. Since 1954, Southside Cleaners has provided Lakeland with the highest quality of care for their garments. They are one of the only eight companies worldwide to have multiple employees pass the rigorous training to become a Certified Garment Care Professional (CGCP). This team of garment care professionals offers traditional dry cleaning and laundry services, weekly home/office service plans, and historic garment and wedding gown restoration. One freshly laundered customer wrote, “They give great time and attention to my dry cleaning requests and my clothes always look good as new when they are delivered.”
2nd: Regal Cleaners
3rd: Executive Cleaners & Launderer
BEST DAYCARE
LITTLE SHEPHERDS PRESCHOOL
175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lakeland
(863) 616-9196
FB: First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, Florida
IG @fpclakeland
This licensed preschool for children three months to four years old has served Lakeland for over 25 years. Little Shepherds is a church-supported program regulated by the Polk County Health Department/Department of Children and Families with oversight from the session, pastors, and church administration of First Presbyterian Church (FPC), Lakeland. The preschool prides itself on providing quality, safe childcare, noting, “The mission of Little Shepherds Preschool is to communicate God’s message of love and redemption through Christ by prayer, teaching, example, worship, and play.”
2nd: Country Lane Child Enrichment Center
3rd: Bright Imaginations Learning Centers of Lakeland
BEST AUTO REPAIR
LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE
833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 688-7131
This tire dealer and automotive repair shop take the worry and hassle out of car repairs. Whether your A/C is on the fritz or your check engine light is aglow, Levy’s is the place to go! Customers laud Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto for good, honest service. One forever patron writes, “I had a nail in my tire four years ago and I never forgot the wonderful service I received when I visited Levy’s. Today I bought a brand new set of tires from the same man who helped me back then and I am naturally very happy with the service I received today! You have a customer for life, Levy’s! Thank you for the consistently awesome customer service!!”
2nd: Webb’s BP Services Center
3rd: Christian Brothers Automotive
BEST AUTO DEALER
BARTOW FORD
2800 US-98 North, Bartow
(863) 533-0425
FB: Bartow Ford Company
IG @bartowford
Proudly serving Central Florida for over 75 years, Bartow Ford provides unmatched customer care. They specialize in selling and servicing new Ford vehicles and all used makes and models. According to Ford Motor Company, Bartow Ford was the #1 Volume Truck Sales Dealership in Florida for 2014, is part of Ford Motor Credit’s Top 25 Commercial Vehicle Center franchises, is a 30-time Ford’s Top One Hundred Club member, and a 19-time President’s Award Winner. With over 250 employees across their 30-acre facility, Bartow Ford has what you need, whether that’s a Service Department, Parts Department, Collision Center, Heavy Duty Shop, Rental Center, or appointment-free Quick Lane for oil changes. One of thousands of five-star reviews reads in part, “I’ve brought a couple trucks from here and have always been satisfied with the entire process. This dealership is not pushy and really tries to do everything they can to get [you] the best deal for your budget. [...]”
2nd: Regal Honda
3rd: Lakeland Automall
BEST CAR WASH
MISTER CAR WASH
Multiple Locations
FB: Mister Car Wash
IG @mistercarwashhq
Mister Car Wash – “Inspiring people to shine!” Since opening their first Houston, Texas location in 1969, Mister Car Wash has become a premier car wash company, committed to offering customers a clean, dry, shiny car every time using their patented Unity Chemistry system. Whether you’re looking for a single wash or to become a member of the Ultimate Wash Club, Mister Car Wash’s team members are committed to a quality experience. One Mister Car Wash South Florida location customer wrote, “I wish I would have come here ages ago! One of the last full service options out there. They cleaned the car inside and out. [...]”
2nd: Waters CarWash
3rd: Love Express Car Wash
BEST RV DEALER
CAMPING WORLD
7400 E State Rd 60, Bartow
(866) 906-9517
FB: Camping World
IG @campingworld
Camping World is the nation’s largest retailer of RVs, RV accessories, and RV-related services, with over 185 Camping World SuperCenters across the country. They won by a landslide in this category, not even a close 2nd in sight! Not only do they offer a full-service call center, but their comprehensive website also features thousands of quality products for RVs, camping, towing, and outdoor living. One Bartow Camping World customer raved, “Super experience in all respects! Staff is friendly, knowledgeable & ready to serve your needs. I purchased a new premium camper & the selection process was facilitated by Rhonda, a great sales associate. Took delivery today and am looking forward to my first expedition!”
BEST RV PARK
CAMP MARGARITAVILLE AUBURNDALE
361 Denton Ave, Auburndale
(863) 455-7335
FB: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
IG @campmargaritavilleauburndale
Chill at Camp Margaritaville! This Auburndale luxury RV resort offers 326 RV sites, including 11 Super Premium RV Sites, along with 75 Cabana Cabins. Guests can enjoy a tiki bar, fire pits, resort pool, entertainment stage, playground, dog parks, and putting course, or plan a day with the crew hiking, biking, or sightseeing. One happy camper noted, “First time stay and will definitely come back! The resort is very clean and organized. The staff is friendly, helpful and FUN! There are plenty of activities all day long for kids and adults! Our boys loved Gaga ball! Our adult group loved the License to Chill bar and Name That Tune! Our dogs loved the dog park!! Thank you for a great ending to our summer!!”
2nd: Sanlan RV & Golf Resort
3rd: The Outpost Luxury RV Resort Park and Community
BEST POWERSPORTS DEALER
SKY POWERSPORTS OF LAKELAND
1638 Kathleen Rd, Lakeland
(863) 682-4607
FB: Sky Powersports
IG @skypowersports_lakeland
Have you been to Sky Powersports? We hear they’re wheelie good. “Fantastic dealership and even better staff. Was there yesterday and purchased a Polaris XP 1000 NorthStar Edition and a trailer. Jeff the salesperson was phenomenal. Bre and Jeremy were fantastic as well. They made the process smooth, easy, and a warm exchange all around. Thank you all at SkySports Lakeland! We will be back soon!” writes one powersport patron. Sky Powersports has a large selection of new and pre-owned models of motorcycles, ATVs, and sideby-sides and is an authorized Indian Motorcycle®, Polaris®, Slingshot®, Suzuki, Victory Motorcycles®, and Yamaha powersport dealership. They are the most progressive multi-line powersports dealer in Florida, with a team of professional sales members, finance experts, service technicians, and a knowledgeable parts and accessories staff.
2nd: Fun Bike Center Motorsports
3rd: 92 Powersports
BEST OIL CHANGE
LEVY’S IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE
833 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 688-7131
Best Auto Repair and Best Oil Change?! Best Of LKLD voters are revved up about Levy’s Imperial Tire & Auto Service. Known for reliable, honest service, Levy’s is the place to go for that oil change you’re overdue for. One customer writes, “Competitively priced and great service. They helped us out one time and it really stayed with us and recommend them, always. Family establishment and if you hang around for your car you can play with the dog. Highly recommend.”
2nd: Take 5 Oil Change
3rd: Christian Brothers Automotive
BEST PRINT OR SIGN SHOP
WHATEVER TEES
4020 Kidron Rd #6, Lakeland
(863) 370-0740
FB: Whatever Tees Screen Printing & Embroidery
IG @whatevertees
“Could not be happier with our shirts and the customer service of Whatever Tees! I had messaged and even stopped into four other local companies for quotes and never heard back from any of them. When I emailed Whatever Tees, I had a response within minutes and each subsequent email was answered just as promptly. They were able to do exactly what I wanted, offered suggestions, and completed the project quickly. Would recommend them to everyone looking to have shirts screen printed. [...]” raves one Whatever Tees customer. This family-operated embroidery and screen printing shop focuses on quick turnaround, quality work, and customer service. “We can handle any size order, as many as you need, or just one shirt. Whatever!”
2nd: Dixie Signs
3rd: iNK Screen Printing
BEST CPA
PARRISH & PARRISH CPAS, P.A.
6700 Florida Ave S STE 19, Lakeland
(863) 709-8337
FB: Parrish & Parrish CPAs, P.A.
Parrish & Parrish, P.A., is a Certified Public Accounting firm with offices in Lakeland and Plant City, providing a wide variety of accounting, tax and financial management services tailored to meet the needs of their business and individual clients. “Our Certified Public Accounting (CPA) services are designed to make your job easier and provide you with more time to focus on building your business. We keep abreast of tax law changes throughout the year to ensure that you are taking advantage of ALL tax incentives.” Their Lakeland-based team has over 50 years of combined accounting experience with experts in the areas of Business and Individual Tax Preparation, Tax & Estate Planning, IRS Problem Resolution, Sales Tax Audit Representation, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Payroll, QuickBooks, Guardianship Accounts, New Business Formations, Financial Statements, Business Valuation, and Litigation Support.
2nd: Kellie M. Deitrick, P.A. CPA
3rd: Brinton Fairchild, LLC - CPAs
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
CPS INVESTMENT ADVISORS
205 E Orange St #310, Lakeland
(863) 688-1725
FB: CPS Investment Advisors
IG @cpsinvestmentadvisors
Since 1975, CPS Investment Advisors have helped clients plan for the future and achieve financial independence. They’ve forged trusting, long-lasting relationships to craft comprehensive financial plans that deliver long-term security and success. “We provide each client with a highly coordinated team of finance, tax, investment, and business experts, all working together to provide clients with comprehensive solutions as unique as their situations.” Clients praise CPS for their friendly, knowledgeable staff and individualized customer service.
2nd: Allen & Company
3rd: CORE Wealth Advisors
BEST ATTORNEY
DOUG BURNETTI LAW OFFICES OF BURNETTI, P.A.
211 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(888) 444-8508
FB: Burnetti, P.A.
IG @burnetti_pa
“As a board-certified civil trial lawyer, I have had the opportunity to handle many different types of cases in the courtroom, including auto accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, and products liability. As the founder of Burnetti, P.A., I am very pleased to have watched the firm develop over the years,” says Doug Burnetti. The personal injury attorneys at Burnetti, P.A. have served clients across the state for over 25 years. One client testimonial reads in part, “My Burnetti experience was amazing. I felt the concern and care they had for me. They were always calling to check on me and keep me updated on my case. I highly recommend Burnetti P.A. as a great and caring law firm. [...]”
2nd: Brooks Law Group
3rd: Lauriane Ciccarelli | Troiano & Roberts
BEST BANK
MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION
Multiple Locations
FB @MIDFLORIDA
IG @midflorida_creditunion
MIDFLORIDA, a repeat winner for Best Bank, is not-for-profit and member-owned, offering banking products and services from personal and business banking to loans, mortgages, and investing. It began in 1954 as Polk County Teachers Credit Union and now has more than 60 branches as Central Florida’s community credit union. MIDFLORIDA emphasizes personal attention and competitive rates “Because your money isn’t just a string of numbers on an account statement. It’s personal—and we think the way you bank should reflect that.”
2nd: (TIE) Citizens Bank & Trust
2nd: (TIE) SouthState Bank
3rd: Bank of Central Florida
BEST INSURANCE AGENT
JOY MORSE | STATE FARM
5727 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland
(863) 647-2915
FB @JoyMorseInsurance
“My team of licensed insurance professionals and I are here to help make insurance & financial services easy to understand. We are here to protect you from everyday risks and make sure that your insurance program doesn’t have gaps or caps that you are unaware of.” Joy Morse is in her 35th year of business serving Lakeland and the surrounding areas. Her agency has qualified for multiple State Farm Awards over the years, including Ambassador Travel, State Farm Crystal Honor, and State Farm Chairman’s Circle. The Joy Morse State Farm Insurance Agency can help you with Car, Home, Life, Renters, Boat, Motorcycle, and Health Insurance and assist small business owners with their Commercial Insurance.
2nd: Ewing Blackwelder & Duce Insurance
3rd: Mark Lanier | State Farm
BEST SPA
DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA
1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland
(863) 686-5859
FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland
IG @daydreams.dayspa
This is the stuff dreams are made of. “A brand that is synonymous with luxury, beauty, and high-end services,” DayDreams Day & Med Spa offers spa packages, massages, facials, chemical peels, HydraFacial/Oxygeneo, permanent makeup, nails, waxing, lashes and brows, and even a kid’s spa. One pampered patron writes, “I love the atmosphere of the spa. It smells great, it instantly relaxes you, the staff is always friendly and who doesn’t love a mimosa? I’ve had several massages, eyebrow and nail treatments and they have all been amazing. I leave feeling relaxed and pampered. I have recommended DayDreams to numerous people.”
2nd: Vega Spa
3rd: Pura Vie Holistic Studio
BEST MEDICAL SPA
DAYDREAMS DAY & MED SPA
1463 Town Center Dr. E, Lakeland
(863) 686-5859
FB @DayDreamsDaySpaLakeland
IG @daydreams.dayspa
Get back your glow at DayDreams Day & Med Spa in Lakeland. This med spa offers premium services in medical esthetics performed by licensed healthcare providers. Whether you’re in the market for Botox and fillers or facial resurfacing, DayDreams can assist you. The spa recommends one of its most popular services, the DayDreams Medical Esthetics procedure. “In a true spa setting, cutting-edge technology, top-notch products, and decades of medical aesthetic experience make for the area’s premier medical spa experience.” Step into a plush robe and slippers, enjoy complimentary guest services, including infused waters, coffee, tea, and snacks, and relax. You deserve it!
2nd: Bella Viságe Medical & Aesthetic Rejuvenation
3rd: Ageless Aesthetics & Wellness
BEST HAIR SALON
BLOWN BEAUTIFUL DRY BAR
1021 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland
(863) 937-3428
FB: Blown Beautiful Dry Bar
IG @blownbeautifuldrybar
Best Of LKLD voters are blown away by this dry bar! Blown Beautiful Dry Bar is a luxury beauty bar dedicated to providing clients with a premier experience. “We’ve created a space for individuals to come, take a relaxing moment for themselves, be pampered, and leave feeling empowered, confident, beautiful, and ready to conquer the world!” Known for their signature blowouts, Blown Beautiful has a full menu of other services, from hair and makeup to waxing and extensions. “I highly recommend Blown Beautiful because I have had an amazing experience every time that I have gone,” writes one beautified babe, “The staff is so friendly and personable, and I always leave there feeling confident and beautiful.”
2nd: Local Remedy
3rd: Woodlund Salon
BEST BARBER
SKULLY’S BARBER SALON
434 W Pipkin Rd, Lakeland
(863) 224-3507
FB: Skullys Barber Salon
IG @skullysbarbersalon
skullysbarbersalon.com Skully’s can’t be stopped! This year after year Best Barber went from “a tank of gas and a dream” to an award-winning mobile and brick-and-mortar salon. A master barber, Skully founded his hair biz doing house calls in 2015 and opened his mobile barbershop out of a 32-foot RV in 2017. Now Skully’s Barber Salon has a physical location on W. Pipkin Road in Lakeland. Skully can hook you up with a haircut, skin fade, beard trim, or shave (he does women’s hair too)! One customer review reads, “I just moved into the area after having seen my previous barber for seven years. Totally was not looking forward to having to go through all the trials of finding another good one. I was super impressed by how good of a job Skully did with my cut. He’s [won] best barber shop for years in a row and I can see why. Really great price for the cut as well. I absolutely found my next seven-year guy!”
2nd: Lakeland Barber Company
3rd: Gents Classic Cuts
BEST NAIL SALON
PAINT NAIL BAR
1486 Town Center Drive, Lakeland
(863) 777-2947
FB @paintnailbarlakeland
IG @paintlakeland
“I have been visiting this nail salon for about a year now, and my experiences have been consistently amazing. The salon creates a welcoming atmosphere, and its cleanliness and organization are impeccable, [...]” writes one freshly painted patron. Now, it’s time for an Uptown Girl mani/ pedi! PAINT nailed it again this year. They are committed to their client’s health and the earth through their choice of product lines. They also opt for ceramic pedicure basins over whirlpool jets (which often harbor bacteria). “Whether it is cleanliness, color selection, client service, nail art, environment, attention to detail, or the wonderful energy at PAINT… you name it, we’ve thought of it, developed it, and fine-tuned it based on staff and client feedback.”
2nd: Noire The Nail Bar
3rd: Lee Spa Nails
BEST TATTOO STUDIO
BLACK SWAN TATTOO
1119 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 937-9777
FB @blackswantattoo
IG @blackswantattoo
Taking the top tattoo spot again this year, Black Swan provides a relaxed atmosphere, a clean environment, and tattoos worth talking about. Established in 2007, they now have six artists with over 70 years of combined experience, versed in all styles of tattooing. One Black Swan patron writes, “One of my favorite shops to go to. All the artists are talented and very professional. Shop is always clean and provides a positive environment for everyone.” Clients consistently rave about the level of service and quality of work they receive from this Best Of LKLD voter favorite shop.
2nd: Patterson Tattoos
3rd: (TIE) Gaslight Tattoo Company
3rd: (TIE) Holy Grail Tattoo
BEST PIERCING
HOLY GRAIL TATTOO
121 E Alamo Dr, Lakeland
(863) 510-5990
FB: Holy Grail Tattoo
IG @holygrailtattoos
Best Of LKLD voters say this place is the Holy Grail of piercing. Holy Grail Tattoo is a premier custom tattoo and piercing studio in South Lakeland, dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction. The shop boasts hundreds of five-star reviews, many of which applaud the shop’s piercer. One freshly pierced patron writes, “Janet is the by far the best piercer I’ve been to. I have had multiple piercings and jewelry upgrades performed by her. She’s always welcoming and makes sure to thoroughly explain the process so you’re always aware of what’s happening. Not to mention her amazing style and creative piercing plans and ideas. Will not be going to anyone else!”
2nd: Gaslight Tattoo Company
3rd: Black Swan Tattoo
