Photograph by Ann Spurling
Award of Excellence
People’s Pharmacy
A Victoria Street staple for more than 30 years, People’s Pharmacy is more than just a store; it’s a valued member of the community. Run all of your errands in one spot: pick up a prescription, top up your parking meter, spoil your child with a new toy, even grab something hot for lunch on your way out. Plus, they offer easy parking and a rewarding loyalty card. Caring employees will do everything in their power to make sure you leave happy.
Ambitious mother and daughter owners Donna Pearman and Tamara Richardson have recently expanded People’s Pharmacy, connecting it with the adjacent building and increasing their total retail space to a whopping 11,000 square feet. This has enabled them to widen their kids’ and baby section, which was formerly located in the pharmacy’s back room. Little People’s Toys is now only little in name!
Well done and congratulations People’s Pharmacy for earning your place as one of Bermuda’s must trusted and valued retailers.
62 Victoria Street, Hamilton; 51 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-7527
Great Gifts
Brown & Co
Books, Bermuda sweatshirts, gourmet food items and home décor—there’s something for everyone at Brown & Co. This one-stop shop boasts an ever-changing selection of seasonal and special occasion gifts like heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and singing birthday cards. There’s even a wall of assorted mix-your-own candy for the kids.
35 Front Street, Hamilton, 279-5442
Book Store
Bermuda Bookstore
With over 80 years of bookselling experience, it’s no wonder that the little Bermuda Bookstore on Queen Street is considered something of a literary institution. Lose yourself amongst the jam-packed shelves and stacks of new releases. Looking for a specific title? The enthusiastic staff at Bermuda Bookstore will speedily order and bring in books at very competitive prices. “It’s what a bookstore should be,” exclaimed one of our judges.
3 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-3698
Toy Store
Little People’s Toys
Little People’s Toys is now bigger and better than ever, complete with its very own Church Street entrance. It’s a toy store unlike any other toy store on the island, boasting a hugely expanded variety of games, collectibles, costumes, books and so much more. If the selection doesn’t sway you, Little People’s fantastic customer service definitely will.
51 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-7527
Art Gallery
Bermuda Society of Arts
The Bermuda Society of Arts showcases masterpieces by artists of all ages and backgrounds, from established award winners to primary school students. Exhibitions change regularly and are often accompanied by lively Friday evening social events and small group workshops. BSoA’s inviting location on the top floor of City Hall makes it easy to drop by during a lunch break or add a trip to the gallery on your next date night.
17 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-3824
Fresh Flowers
Demco
By an overwhelming majority and in light of consistently positive experiences, our judges crown Demco best-in-class for alluring bouquets and unique sensory centrepieces. This beloved floral studio is now even more accessible with their new fridge in Lindo’s Devonshire. Well done to their creative and over-the-top-helpful florists who are always such a pleasure to work with.
14 South Road, Devonshire, 234-7777; 26 Church Street, Hamilton, 293-3626
Garden Gear
Aberfeldy Nurseries Ltd.
When it comes to stocking up on gardening tools, weed control products, decorative terracotta pots and fertilizers our judges give Aberfeldy Nurseries the green thumbs up. Their outdoor selection of vegetable seedlings, fruit trees, woody ornamentals and potted flower plants is second-to-none. Plus, they’re open seven days a week.
3 Pomander Road, Paget, 236-2927
Place to Satisfy your Sweet Tooth
TIE: Sweet SAAK & Yo Cherry
Sweet Saak
The next time you’re craving something fresh out of the oven, feast your eyes on Sweet SAAK’s selection of delicious baked goods: buttery croissants, glazed scones, generously frosted cupcakes and old-fashioned Johnny Bread are just a few of their top sellers. Bermudians go crazy for this bakery’s massive cinnamon buns, which are baked fresh every Wednesday and Saturday.
16 York Street, St. George’s, 297-0663
Yo Cherry
Kids of all ages love the crazy toppings and sinfully delicious daily flavour lineup at Bermuda’s favourite frozen yogurt shop, Yo Cherry. Deck out your around-the-world creation with a dollop of marshmallow fluff, handful of gummy candy or drizzle of chocolate syrup. Yo Cherry’s late nighttime hours and rewarding customer loyalty programme always keep us coming back for more.
8 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 292-2020
Pharmacy
People’s Pharmacy
For decades, the helpful staff at People’s Pharmacy have gone out of their way to cultivate a feel-good shopping experience. Our judges love the excellent selection of products and the store’s long hours: Monday through Saturday until 8:30 p.m. and Sunday until 6 p.m. The pharmacy also offers online refills to make picking up your prescription a breeze.
62 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 292-7527
Pet Pampering
Dog Gone Good
There’s nothing more relaxing for you and your pet than a comprehensive grooming without a trip to the vet. That’s why in-the-know dog owners turn to Dog Gone Good for a stress-free mobile alternative for ear cleanings, nail clippings and full coat makeovers. Highly trained owner Amy Terceira provides a full range of services as well as dog obedience instruction and her very popular doggie playgroups.
735-2581
Pet Supplies
Noah’s Ark
No surprise here! Noah’s Ark has once again been crowned Bermuda’s best for pet supplies. In addition to the essentials like food, carriers and grooming accessories, this animal-lover’s superstore has an overwhelming assortment of treats, toys and dress-up clothes for pets large and small.
3 Marsh Lane, Devonshire, 236-1533
Grocery Store
The Supermart
While picking a favourite grocery store is obviously about the products on the shelves, it’s just as much about the people who put them there. The brilliant staff at The Supermart are always willing to go the extra mile, offer suggestions and ensure that you find everything on your shopping list. We particularly appreciate their variety of Waitrose products from the UK, their hot lunch buffet and their willingness to bring in new healthy and natural food items.
125 Front Street, Hamilton, 292-2064
Warehouse Style Shopping
Price Rite Warwick
Cementing their place as top warehouse-style shop in Bermuda, Price Rite has recently expanded their empire into the 13,000 square feet of retail space that once housed White’s Supermarket in Warwick. Wide aisles, towering displays, shelves absolutely loaded with bulk products—it’s everything you’d expect in a big-box megastore. And, since they’ve got tons of parking, the only thing you need to worry about is how you’re going to fit it all in your car!
22 Middle Road, Warwick, 232-0010
Kitchen Tools & Accessories
International Imports
If a chef is only as good as the tools he uses, we’ll be shopping at International Imports from now on, thank you very much. From Le Creuset cast-iron cookware to KitchenAid mixers to the sleekest professional-grade Wusthof knives, this store focuses on top-of-the-line culinary products that are built to last. So what are you waiting for? Pick out a kitchen gadget or three and get cooking!
44 Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton, 292-1661
Sports Store
Sports R Us
With countless years of experience, consistently great service and all the top name brands, Sports R Us is the ultimate shopping destination for every athlete. Nowhere has a more comprehensive assortment of sporting gear and equipment, ranging from soccer cleats to tennis racquets to swimming goggles. They’ve even got trendy workout apparel to ensure you look your best as you’re breaking a sweat.
61 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-1891
Helpful Hardware Store
Gorham’s
A genuinely helpful hardware store like Gorham’s comprises two things: a great selection and savvy staff. Whether you’re searching for that certain something to complete a home project or just browsing the end-of-aisle discount displays, trust one of the friendly blue-shirted employees to point you in the right direction.
62 St. John’s Road, Pembroke, 295-1550
Honourable Mention: Godet & Young Hardware Ltd.
Personable and unhurried, the staff at Godet & Young make you feel as if you’re stepping back in time to a different era of retail. Our judges swear by the true one-on-one service, so unique that it earns this petite hardware store an honourable mention.
27 Wellington Street, St. George’s, 297-1940
Computer &/or Digital Device Sales
Redlaser
Don’t let the process of choosing a new wireless modem or external hard drive keep you up at night. Redlaser has the best name brands in the industry plus the know-how to help you pick the right part. From smart watches to USB flash drives to Beats headphones to the island’s biggest selection of printer ink, this is the place to go for your next computer or tech gadget.
12 Bakery Lane, Pembroke, 296-6400
Computer Service
Sam Roberts, Bermuda Tech Guru
Very helpful and patient, talented and good with customers—our judges had nothing but compliments for Bermuda Tech Guru’s Sam Roberts. Save yourself the frustration of figuring out your new modem, printer or mobile device and make an appointment for Sam to come right to your home or office to set everything up. He also provides personalised computer lessons, can boost Wi-Fi signals and will even tidy messy cables around your workspace.
704-3901, www.bermudatech.guru
Home Furnishings & Decor
ESC/Escape
Since branching out into furnishings and decorative accents in late 2015, ESC’s Escape department has garnered an enthusiastic following of home décor connoisseurs. A beautifully arranged showroom takes full advantage of their 8,000-square-foot premises, showing off everything from ceiling fans to mirrors, coffee tables, candles and bookends. Just make sure to buy it if you like it; ESC only stocks a few of each item to keep their inventory fresh and unique.
4 Mill Creek Road, Pembroke, 292-7269
Gas Station
RUBiS
This year we recognize RUBiS as a whole for its suite of fully stocked gas station convenience stores and rewarding customer loyalty programme. Their islandwide locations keep us coming back for more with monthly fuel giveaways, free drinks and discount coupons. And, as if that wasn’t enough, RUBiS’s friendly employees are always willing to check your oil and clean your windows while you fill up.
297-1577
Lawn & Garden Care
Sousa’s Landscape Management Co. Ltd.
Trust your backyard to the landscaping specialists at Sousa’s Landscape Management Co. Ltd. Their full-service team handles each job with unparalleled efficiency and professionalism, and will mow, weed, trim and clear your lawn into tip-top shape. Planning a remodel? Sousa’s also offers full architectural and horticultural consultations to help you plan and build the outdoor area or garden of your dreams.
2 Camp Hill Road, Southampton, 238-1797
Electrician
JeVon Smith,P.E.N.G. Electric
People Everywhere Need Good Electricians is the driving philosophy behind JeVon Smith’s service-centric contracting business. P.E.N.G Electric handles both residential and commercial installations, maintenance and repair with an emphasis on professionalism and fostering lasting client relationships. Just ask one of his many satisfied customers: JeVon takes pride in his work.
505-9595, www.pengelectric.com
Boat Repair
Derek Excell, Offshore Yachting and Maintenance
If you want the job done right, Derek Excell at Offshore Yachting and Maintenance is your guy. With years of experience captaining ships of all shapes and sizes, Derek is regarded among the boating community as a preeminent expert in mechanics and repair.
83 Harbour Road, Paget, 236-9464
Plumber
Island Engineering Ltd.
For over 25 years, the hardworking plumbing professionals at Island Engineering Ltd. have provided residential, commercial and industrial services to clients islandwide. IEL’s technicians work closely with the sales and service team to make sure jobs get done as soon as possible, ensuring happy customers every time.
9 Wellbottom Road, Southampton, 238-1079
Water Truck Service
WaterNow
When you need water, you need it now. And that’s why, when our tanks are running low, we choose WaterNow for their seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year delivery service. You can even order water online. How convenient is that?
504-5555
Car Mechanic
Auto Solutions
The automotive professionals at Auto Solutions believe that getting your vehicle fixed or serviced should never be a headache. Their highly trained technicians ensure that your car runs safely and smoothly using the latest diagnostic equipment and maintenance techniques. They even have a free shuttle into Hamilton to make pickup and drop-off hassle free.
61 St. John’s Road, Pembroke, 295-5000
Bike Mechanic
Ambrosio Cycles
Affordability and speed are two reasons we call the bike gurus at Ambrosio Cycles. Customers are treated to the fastest repair service around—often hours, not days—to get their scooters back on the road as quickly as possible. Need a pickup? They do that too.
6 Market Lane, Pembroke, 292-2205
Upholsterer
Gotcha Covered
It’s unanimous: we turn to Kat Fisher at Gotcha Covered when we need custom sun shades, hurricane covers, boat- and bike-seat repair as well as car upholstery. Kat is very skilled at her craft and can personalise any project to your exact specifications.
21 Euclid Avenue, Pembroke, 232-2628
Interior Designer/Decorator
Gregory Nelmes, Gregory Nelmes Interior Design
Refresh and redecorate with the help of Gregory Nelmes Interior Design. With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, Nelmes provides clients with design consultancy for projects ranging from single kitchens to large offices and even entire homes. A variety of his stylish, island-chic home furnishings and tastefully remodeled classic furniture is on display at his beautiful showroom in St. George’s.
8 Duke of York Street, St. George’s, 704-7740
For Patio & Pool
Island Trading
Known for its massive showroom, Island Trading has the best selection of classic and contemporary furniture for the outdoor lifestyle. The family-run business specialises in gorgeous poolside decorations, teak lounge chairs, fire pits and matching umbrellas from name brands such as Lloyd Flanders and Gloster. As one of our judges said, “If you want the best in Bermuda, this is the place to go”.
93 Reid Street East, Hamilton, 292-0400
Heath & Fitness Club
Court House
Commit to your health and invest in yourself with the support of Bermuda’s best comprehensive fitness club, Court House. This fully equipped gym caters to the working professional who demands a clean, motivating environment, convenient classes and state-of-the-art equipment. Court House is open 24/7 and offers members access to a variety of wellness programmes, personal trainers and three squash courts.
31 Victoria Street, Hamilton, 292-8357
Personal Trainer
Sergio White, Positive Results
Our judges love the passion and commitment of personal trainer Sergio White at Positive Results. Sergio builds personalised fitness programmes to help individuals improve their overall wellness and maintain a healthy lifestyle. He is also a trainer for the Beat the Couch programme, an initiative that offers group support and expert coaching to help novice runners complete a 5K race.
295-0297, sergio@positiveresults.bm
Massage Therapy
Glenn Robinson, Ashlan Clinic
Relief from back pain might be just a few sessions away with the aid of certified massage and neuromuscular therapist Glenn Robinson, owner of Ashlan Clinic. Glenn provides a wide variety of customised treatments including prenatal and sports injury. As one judge raved, “He makes you feel like a million bucks.”
48 Cedar Avenue, Hamilton, 292-6830
Photograph by Ann Spurling
Yoga/Pilates Studio
Lucky Elephant
Lucky Elephant’s new studio on the corner of Burnaby and Church Streets hosts a dynamic range of yoga classes for all ages and experience levels. Instructors teach the fundamentals as well as the latest fads, including “hot” yoga, which is held in a special heated room to promote muscle flexibility. Parents with young yogis will particularly enjoy the kid- and baby-friendly sessions.
3 Burnaby Street, Hamilton, 296-3262
New Local Ad/Promotion
Bermuda Tourism Authority
Since its inception in 2013, the Bermuda Tourism Authority has been devoted to celebrating our little slice of paradise by capturing and showcasing what makes our island special. One of their most recent projects is the #lovemybermuda hashtag campaign, which encourages national pride and highlights cultural uniqueness via social media. Be sure to watch BTA’s three-part mini-documentary series entitled “What I Love About Bermuda.”
22 Church Street, Hamilton, 296-9200
Private Party Boat Charter
Zara
Savour a salty afternoon in style aboard the Kempe family’s luxurious Bermuda 77 catamaran known as Zara. The brand-new, beautifully sleek yacht effortlessly accommodates private events for up to 70 passengers, offering spacious deck areas and panoramic views from the flybridge. Charter rates start at $2,300 for two hours; $1,150 for each additional hour.
85 Harbour Road, Warwick, www.bermuda-yachts.com
Diligent Real Estate Agent
Laura Bolton
Up-and-coming representative Laura Bolton at Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty has a passion for growing and sharing her knowledge of the island’s real-estate market. Laura works closely with her clients to secure the perfect rental home or apartment.
11 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton, 705-5086, lbolton@brcl.bm
Barber
The New Universal Barber Shop
Years go by, and barber shops come and go, but this Court Street staple still stands strong, a testament to its excellent service and faithful clientele. The New Universal Barber Shop embodies the best of old-school hair cutting practices—and that’s why we love it. Drop by for a walk-in, enjoy a bit of “barber-shop talk” and leave feeling good.
40 Court Street, Hamilton, 292-5642
Hair Salon
Salon 27
Armed with top-of-the-line products and years of know-how, Salon 27’s stylists deliver flattering cuts and hairdos every time. Whether you drop by for a mid-afternoon de-frizz or treat yourself to full-head re-colour, just sit back, relax and enjoy the best overall salon experience around.
27 Reid Street, Hamilton, 295-2727
Heath Care Professional
Dr. Gerhard Boonstra
Dr. Gerhard Boonstra comes highly recommended as one of Bermuda’s best general practitioners. He builds a healthy rapport with patients and is an invaluable member of the family practice team at Island Health Services.
40 Point Finger Road, Paget, 236-0084
Caterer
Get-Er-Done Barbecue
Chef Ian Linnell of Get-Er-Done Barbecue throws an incredible party. He’ll bring the pig, the cornbread, the sides and, of course, the BBQ to grill up the most mouth-watering food for your next backyard bash.
747-6911
Government Service
Bermuda National Library and Bermuda National Youth Library
Thanks to the Bermuda National Library for bringing readers of all ages together with its book signing events, free internet access and outreach delivery service for the elderly. Kids and parents love the Bermuda National Youth Library’s storytelling sleepovers and poetry competitions.
13 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-2905; 74 Church Street, Hamilton, 295-0487
Place for a Mani/Pedi
Orchid Nail Spa
Need to relax? Splurge for one of Orchid Nail Spa’s full 60-minute treatments and escape into mani-pedi heaven. They have hundreds of different polishes to choose from including the newest from the CND Shellac brand to keep your nails looking flawless longer.
54 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton, 296-8696
Spa
Sense, Rosewood Tucker’s Point
Rejuvenate and reflect at Rosewood Tucker’s Point’s world-class spa, Sense. Guests can enjoy a soothing, all-day mind and body experience complete with a beautiful lounge pool, customised massages and aromatherapy facials.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton, 298-4000
Taxi Service
Hitch
Bermuda’s first electronic taxi app, Hitch, is changing the way we travel by allowing passengers to use their mobile phones to schedule a pickup. Payments are handled directly through the app, so you never have to worry about cash. Don’t forget that you can earn credit toward your next ride when you refer a friend.
www.hitch.bm; download the Hitch Bermuda app via the Apple Store or Google Play Store
Cleaning Service
Jahma Gibbons, JKG Mobile Detailing
Bermudian entrepreneur Jahma Gibbons’s mobile car and bike detailing business appears to be on a collision course with success; he has recently purchased a fully outfitted van to meet the growing demand for his services across the island. Just ask one of Jahma’s satisfied customers: a clean vehicle plus unbeatable convenience is a winning combination every time.
703-2195
Awesome Audio/Visual Sales
M&M International
With decades of experience, M&M International is the premier purveyor of all things consumer electronics. TVs, speakers, top-of-the-line headphones—they’ve even got a squad of tech gurus to ensure that installations and repairs go without a hitch.
61 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-8158
Cool Finds
DNA Creative Shoppe
Professional artists and hobbyists alike will be blown away by the selection of affordable craft supplies at DNA Creative Shoppe. Owners Lexy and Dion Correia are constantly expanding their inventory to include niche products that are unavailable elsewhere.
129 Front Street, Hamilton, 747-5399
Friendliest Customer Service
Rowe Spurling Paint Company
Our judges had nothing but glowing reviews for Bermuda’s oldest paint store, Rowe Spurling. The dedicated sales team has years of experience and is always on hand to give you invaluably honest opinions and advice. Follow Rowe Spurling on social media for DIY tips, special offers and decorating ideas.
67 St. John’s Road, Pembroke, 292-7770
Wedding Planner/Coordinator
Nikki Begg
Professional bridal consultant Nikki Begg of Bermuda Bride caters to lavish, high-end nuptials with no expense spared. Imagine the wedding of your dreams and let Nikki handle the rest.
Suite One, 3 Park Road, Hamilton, 295-8697
Makeup Artist
Christopher Vee
Get glamorous for your next special event with the help of internationally renowned makeup artist Christopher Vee. Driven by his passion for the field, Christopher strives to make each and every one of his clients feel beautiful.
info@christopherveemakeup.com
Locally Made Product
Dockyard Fudge Company
Sweets-lovers can’t resist the thick, decadent fudge at Bermuda Fudge Company. This cute little shop invites you to drop by often to sample their latest tantalising flavours, like butterfinger and English toffee.
The Clocktower Mall, Dockyard, 293-8343
Bike Sales
World Distributors Ltd.
Piaggio, Yamaha, Vespa and Aprilia—the showroom at World Distributors sells the hottest models and sexiest bikes on the island. Whether you’re shopping new or used, their service is unparalleled. Don’t forget to pick up a helmet and storage case while you’re there.
32 North Street, Hamilton, 295-2329
Wildcard: Best Spent $20
Bermuda Fun Golf
Bermuda Fun Golf is our top pick for affordable fun. Enjoy panoramic views, a healthy sea breeze and 18 challenging holes for $15 per person ($12 for kids under 12).
7 Maritime Lane, Dockyard, 400-7888
Check out the winners in the other 2016 Best of Bermuda Award divisions here:
Clothing & Accessories 2016
Food, Drink & Entertainment 2016
People & Places 2016
