After more than 180,000 nominations from over 14,000 participants, Gulf Coast Media’s Best of Baldwin 2025 has entered its final phase.

From now until Wednesday, Nov. 22, readers and Baldwin County residents can vote to determine the best in nearly 400 categories, ranging from favorite fried shrimp to top medical professionals and everything in between.

Final round voting kicked off today at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/BestOf, allowing participants to cast one vote per category each day. The finalists, narrowed down to the top five most-nominated in each category, now await their community’s decision. Voters can support their local favorites across a diverse array of categories, including best school teacher, art gallery, automotive services, home improvement and even nonprofit organizations.

The annual contest celebrates not just the businesses and services of Baldwin County, but also the people who contribute to its community spirit. Gulf Coast Media Publisher Vince Johnson expressed enthusiasm for this year’s event, noting its continued growth.

“More than 5,000 people and businesses were nominated nearly 200,000 times, and now we’re down to the prestigious Top 5 in each category,” GCM Publisher Vince Johnson said. “Best of Baldwin has become a phenomenon in helping local businesses and professionals promote themselves and feel the support of their communities. Like many of you, we’re excited to see who wins and ready to celebrate all of our winners.”

This community-driven contest, now in its sixth year, has grown into a major local event. What started as a small-scale community vote has evolved into a full-fledged celebration, complete with a red carpet ceremony and a glossy Best of Baldwin magazine. Winners will receive a free framed certificate, a window cling and recognition in the annual magazine. The top vote-getters will be honored at the Best of Baldwin 2025 Red Carpet Event at the Orange Beach Event Center in February 2025.

While voting is open to everyone, nominees and winners must be based in Baldwin County. No subscription to Gulf Coast Media is required to participate, and the contest is entirely free. To avoid potential scams, Gulf Coast Media advises participants to be cautious of fraudulent companies offering plaques or promotional materials for a fee. Only Gulf Coast Media provides official recognition for the contest winners at no cost. Any suspicious communication should be verified by contacting Gulf Coast Media directly.

For those looking to amplify their nomination, Gulf Coast Media offers various advertising opportunities, including gallery features, unique listing ads and a consolidated link showcasing all categories a nominee is competing in. For more information on the contest or to promote your nomination, contact your Gulf Coast Media sales representative or email advertising@gulfcoastmedia.com.

Don’t miss your chance to vote and celebrate the best of what Baldwin County has to offer.