Frequently Asked Questions
Nominations & Voting
How do I get on the ballot?
If you or your business or organization is based in Chatham County and offers goods, services or experiences in one of our current categories, you may ask a customer to nominate you in that category as a write-in if the ballot is live. Our team tracks write-in submissions for nomination categories and adds applicable nominees to the ballot at several intervals during voting. If the ballot is not yet available, you may ask that customer to send their nomination to editorial@chathammagazinenc.com.
Do businesses have to pay to be on the ballot?
No. Best of Chatham nominees are determined by readers, first and foremost, with weigh-in from our editorial team who determines if a nominated business belongs in a specific category. Advertising does not influence an addition to the ballot nor does it guarantee an outcome or win.
Then why are there ads on the ballot?
We offer Best of Chatham advertising packages (which may include ballot placements, magazine ads and website placements) to increase visibility. These packages do not guarantee voting or results, but certainly help and are recommended as part of campaigning strategy.
Why isn't my nomination showing up on the ballot yet?
The list isn’t fully finalized until voting begins. If you don’t see your name, it may be because our editorial team hasn’t yet added it. If you believe your business belongs in a category that it is not currently in, ask your customers to write it in.
How specific should my write-in be?
Please be specific so we can verify it. Where applicable, please use the full name of a business and/or person.
- People: “John Smith at The Watering Hole” (not just “John”).
- Multi-location businesses: specify the location (e.g., “Chatham Fitness – Main Street”).
When no clear location winner emerges, multi-location companies may be combined.
How does voting work?
Voting takes place May 1 through May 10. Voters can cast one vote per sub-category during the voting period. You can cast your vote here: chathammagazinenc.com/vote
How many times can I vote?
You may vote once per sub-category during voting (per the ballot rules shown on the form). The email address you submit is essentially your ID – you will need to use the same email address every time you visit the survey. We’re only counting one ballot per email address.
Do I have to answer every question when voting?
All questions are optional. Though we’d love for you to vote in all the categories, you are welcome to pick and choose.
Using the Ballot
I'm having trouble viewing the ballot. What should I do?
I’m having trouble viewing the ballot. What should I do?
Try these steps (in order):
- Clear cache/cookies (see instructions for Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge).
- Try a different browser or device.
- Disable ad-blocking/extension tools.
- Check your internet connection.
- Open the page in an incognito/private window.
If issues persist, contact support@trianglemediapartners.com.
I don't have time to finish now. Can I come back later?
Yes. After you enter your email on your first nomination/vote, you can return on the same device and pick up where you left off. If not logged in, click “Already entered?” on the ballot, and enter the same email.
I've been logged out and didn't receive the login email.
Check spam for an email with a subject like "Login to Best of Durham Ballot 2026". If you still don't see it, whitelist chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com and try again. You can follow these instructions to make sure your email platform isn't blocking us. Still need help? Email support@trianglemediapartners.com.
Why do I have to make an account?
Our ballot software uses your email to protect against fraudulent voting and to let you revisit/complete your ballot later. No password is required.
Eligibility & Categories
Can nominees be outside Chatham?
Only businesses located within Chatham County are eligible for Best of Chatham.
Can chains and franchises be nominated, or is it only for locals?
We love celebrating locally owned businesses. Some categories include chains/franchises if they meaningfully serve our community. Ultimately, voters decide what they support.
What happened to a category from last year?
We review categories annually. Some are added, combined, retired or reworded for clarity. Send suggestions to editorial@chathammagazinenc.com.
Results & Recognition
When are finalists and winners notified?
We aim to notify winners the second week of March. If you haven't heard from us by June 15, please email support@trianglemediapartners.com and we'll confirm your status. We ask all winners to keep results embargoed until the public announcement in June.
How do I find out who the winners are?
Winners are announced online when the Fall Best of Chatham issue is published both online and in print in August. Subscribe, or find Chatham Magazine on newsstands.
Promotion & Materials
How can I promote my business to earn votes?
Grab our free campaign graphics and read our Marketing Tips for voting:
Can I order a plaque or window cling if we win?
Yes. Best of Chatham window clings will be distributed to all winners at no cost. Order official Best of Chatham plaques through our authorized vendor.
Shop official Best of Chatham awards →
Note: Emails from third parties may not be authorized. For authenticity, order via our official link only.
Can I advertise in the Best of Chatham issue?
Yes! The Fall Best of Chatham issue is one of our biggest of the year.
Ad deadline: July 17, 2026
Reserve space: Contact sales@trianglemediapartners.com or your marketing advisor.
I missed campaigning this year. How do I prepare for next time?
Join our Best of Chatham email list for key dates, tips and reminders. Sign up →
Still have questions?
Email our client success team at support@trianglemediapartners.com and we'll be happy to help.