Question 1

Great Outdoor Provision Co.

Accepted Answer

For the past 51 years since its establishment in 1983, Great Outdoor Provision has been a steadfast presence in Village District. Over the years, the landscape may have evolved, but the unwavering commitment of Great Outdoor Provision Co. to the outdoors and delivering top-notch gear has remained constant. The expertise of every Great Outdoor Provision employee spans a diverse range of outdoor activities, from rock climbing to kayaking, reflecting their genuine passion for the outdoors and their eagerness to share their knowledge. Their favorite story is the day former Governor Bev Perdue got her high heel shoe stuck in a crack in our creaky wood floor. She was very gracious standing there on one foot while employees worked to free her shoe. Another fun story from Great Outdoor is the night 200 people showed up at the store to hear Greensky Bluegrass perform an acoustic set. They were an hour and a half late arriving and by the time they got started the store was packed. The team enjoys interacting with the lively customers who frequent the store. Their favorite aspect of Village District is the diverse mix of local merchants, and they particularly favor Cantina 18 as their go-to. Currently, they occupy their third location within Village District, a testament to their substantial growth and the incorporation of numerous new product lines. A fun fact is that until recently, they operated their corporate office, warehouse and distribution center all out of the basement in the Village District location.

Question 2

Village Deli and Grill

Accepted Answer

Having been a cherished part of the Village District for 28 years since its establishment in 1996, Village Deli and Grill holds a special place in the community. Founded by Tim, a local Subway owner seeking to venture into his own unique concept, the deli is a family-owned establishment with many recipes passed down through generations. The primary goal was to create a welcoming environment, offering excellent food while prioritizing locally sourced ingredients. One heartwarming story that resonates with the owners is the 28-year journey of Mrs. Anne, a loyal customer since the deli’s founding. Mrs. Anne has been a constant presence, bringing her children when they were young, and now witnessing the next generation as her kids bring their own children. The sense of familial connection with customers like Mrs. Anne brings joy to the deli owners as they witness the community grow together. What they appreciate most about the Village District is its rich tradition and its convenience as a central location for many residents and office-goers to walk to. Exploring the various shops and enjoying wine tastings at Winestore are one of the owner’s favorite things to do! A favorite memory of theirs is when George Bush spoke at the local school, so there was secret service everywhere! Village Deli and Grill has experienced remarkable growth, expanding and establishing three additional locations in the local area. The deli’s journey reflects its commitment to quality and tradition.

Question 3

Piccola Italia Pizza and Restaurant

Accepted Answer

Piccola Italia Pizza and Restaurant, a beloved establishment, has had its home in the Village for 42 years since its inception in 1982 by the hands of Frank Amato. As a family-owned and operated venture, Piccola Italia proudly maintains its authenticity, with Frank Amato still actively involved in the daily operations. The fondest memories for the Piccola Italia team revolve around the privilege of being a part of numerous families’ significant and everyday moments. Over the years, they’ve witnessed the transformative journeys of young patrons heading off to college, getting married, having children, and witnessing the growth of subsequent generations. The restaurant has become a hub for sharing birthdays, engagements, weddings, and more. The customers have evolved into an extended family, and the Piccola Italia team feels fortunate to have shared in the lives of so many. Village District holds a special place in their hearts, with its vibrant community being their favorite aspect. For over four decades, they’ve observed the community’s growth and prosperity, cherishing the connections with fellow tenants and customers. Their favorite activity in the Village is taking breaks to explore the antique stores or savoring food and drinks from Ajisai and the Village Deli. Throughout the years, Piccola Italia has undergone significant changes, with a noteworthy transformation being the recent addition of a full bar to their menu after 40 years. This innovation has been embraced and loved by their patrons, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment for its valued customers!

Question 4

MADISON

Accepted Answer

Established in 2010, MADISON has thrived going on 14 years, a testament to the passion for shopping, fashion, and the creation of inviting spaces held by its mother/daughter ownership duo. Inspired by the iconic Madison Avenue in NYC, MADISON has become a cherished part of the Village District, contributing to a supportive community alongside an array of local businesses. Among their most treasured memories are their pre-pandemic Spring Events, resembling lively parties with red carpets, step & repeats, DJs, live mannequins, and swag bags. Although recent years saw smaller events, the Madison team is eager to reintroduce more grand in-store gatherings this year and beyond. In Village District, MADISON’s favorite pastime is exploring the diverse stores, especially during the holiday season. They enjoy dining experiences at Tazza Kitchen and appreciate the recent addition of Goodnights Comedy. MADISON’s merchandise collection has continuously expanded, now featuring a broadened selection of shoes, more gifts, and an extended range of accessories, including a highly sought-after jewelry collection.

Question 5

Bailey's Fine Jewelry

Accepted Answer

With a rich history spanning 75 years, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry has evolved significantly since its humble beginnings in 1948. Originally a modest 11 feet wide store in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry opened as it is known in Village District today in 1994, expanding from the acquisition of Henry J Young’s Jewelers. The initial space was a mere 2800-3200 square feet, notably smaller than its current size. Interestingly, in the 1940s, Bailey’s even sold records, bikes, and razors. Celebrating its 75th year in business, Bailey’s is now in its third generation of family ownership. Bailey’s Fine Jewelry has embraced philanthropy as a cornerstone of its values, with initiatives like the “Share the Love” program and the “A Time to Give” watch battery replacement program contributing significantly to the community. Beyond being a renowned jewelry retailer, Bailey’s takes pride in the numerous client stories it has been a part of over the years. These tales go beyond shopping experiences, often involving engagements, weddings, birthdays, and more. The team at Bailey’s cherishes the role they play in their clients’ lives, offering support during significant life milestones and becoming a source of joy during both happy and challenging times. Their favorite part about the Village District is the community atmosphere filled with mostly unique, small, locally owned businesses. Celebratory moments are often shared with their staff at Cantina 18 or exploring Great Outdoor Provisions, a staple in the Village. Bailey’s has undergone remarkable growth and change, with the recent addition of Fox & Bailey in 2022. The introduction of a distinctive OMEGA watch boutique inside the store further solidifies Bailey’s as a destination for luxury timepieces, boasting the second-largest OMEGA boutique of its kind in the country. The continuous evolution of Bailey’s Fine Jewelry showcases its commitment to innovation, quality, and community engagement.