Voting Now Open for our 2024 Business Awards

Voting Now Open for our 2024 Business Awards

Hello Denver! We’re back for another year of recognizing the best businesses and establishments in our wonderful state.

Who Selected Our Nominees?

Ultimately our nominees were selected by Denver metro residents. The determining factors were the nominations received in January and the candidates’ Google reviews throughout the previous year.

Now, Denver area residents can show their support once more by voting for their favorite candidates online. Voting is open from now through March 8, 2024.

And the Winner Is…

After voting closes on March 8, we’ll gather the results and check each candidate’s BBB grade.  (An absence of a grade is acceptable, but a negative one is not!!) But that’s not where it ends.

In addition to votes, the winner of each category is also determined by their Google reviews from the previous 12 months. Combining the vote total with the review score will give us our winners. We will first announce the 2024 winners at our awards ceremony in Denver on April 16 + 17, 2024.  Winners will then be published online and in our Best of Mile High 2024 Magazine. 

For more details, the latest information can be found on our How It Works and FAQ pages.

Thanks for your support and participation!

Congrats to our 2024 Nominees!

Denver has spoken and we have done the work of vetting thousands of nominees. The result is a great list of 2,856 candidates across 310 categories. As a nominee, you earned your spot by having a good mix of nominations and reviews.

What should you do now?

Claim your nomination

If you’re a nominee, be sure to claim your nomination right away.  It only takes a minute!

Why claim your company’s nomination? You’ll get instant access to complimentary graphics, announcements, and other benefits. Plus, we’ll be able to correct any errors that we have on file for your business.

When you register, you have the opportunity to help us get it right. You’re able to verify that your business name, location(s), and contact information are correct.

Claiming Your Nomination Helps Us…and You!

It’s true! Claiming your nomination for Best of Mile High can make it better. Engagement plays a pivotal role in driving the changes we implement. We do the best we can to compare like with like to achieve a level playing field. Categories with minimal nominations, and even fewer registered companies get less attention.  They may be absorbed by another category or disappear altogether.

Categories with a lot of competitors and registered companies are likely to get more attention. This doesn’t mean altered scoring; rather, that it’s more likely we’ll add categories that are more narrowly defined, giving every business in that group better odds and a fairer shake.

Claiming your company’s nomination can even give you a leg up in our awards programs.  While ties in scoring aren’t common, they do occur.  In such cases, that advantage goes to the company that has claimed their company. Claimed Candidate > Unclaimed Candidate

New Timeline

In case you hadn’t noticed, we needed to change up the schedule for this year’s awards just a bit. Please check out the How It Works page on our website for details.

We Care About Your Privacy

You can see the complete Best of Mile High privacy policy here. We want you to know that we won’t share any information you provide when you claim your nomination (or make nominations, or vote) with any other party or organization unless you request it. Our email notifications are strictly opt-in and are only used for communications regarding Idaho’s Best so we can let you know about important dates or events.

We’ve Received Your Nominations!

The 2024 Mile High season is off to a great start! At first count, we’ve got nearly 3,000 nominations to sort through… Impressive!!

The nomination period was open from January 1st – January 12th. We spread the message through social media, and thanks to your nominations and reviews, it appears we have a wealth of candidates to review. Thank you for helping us spread the word by sharing and tagging us in so many posts!

What’s Next?

Here is where our real work begins. In our quest to discover the very best that Denver has to offer, we will meticulously review each candidate. Our focus includes confirming that they align with the nominated category and ensuring all locations are accurate in our system.

Regarding locations, evaluating a single-location business is straightforward. We’ll tally their votes and reviews for the final score. However, businesses having multiple locations adds a layer of complexity. The quantity of votes and reviews significantly impacts the results of Best of Mile High, and we don’t want larger businesses to have an unfair advantage simply due to their size. To keep things fair, we average out reviews per location.

This process can be incredibly time consuming, which is why it takes so long for us to announce the official nominees. Our small team will spend the next few weeks to get things sorted as quickly as possible, and hopefully, we’ll be able to announce the nominees in early February.

Thank You!

The success of these awards hinges on the support of the local community, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. A special thank you for your nominations, votes, and reviews – your contribution is truly appreciated!

Shattering Stereotypes: The Wilhite Law Firm’s Journey of Justice and Compassion

In the heart of the bustling city, there stands a law firm that defies the stereotypes often associated with lawyers. The Wilhite Law Firm, with its rich history and commitment to justice, shatters preconceived notions with every case they take on. Founded in 1977, and rebranded just this year, the firm has become a beacon of hope for those seeking justice in their darkest times.

At the helm of this remarkable establishment is Robert D. Wilhite III, a professional driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference. Having started his career there two decades ago, Rob has witnessed firsthand the power of the law to change lives. He became a litigator not for the prestige or financial gain, but to lend a voice to the voiceless, to fight for what people deserved during their most trying moments.

Recently, a desperate client approached the firm after being turned away and abandoned by several other legal teams. The client had been offered nothing by their insurance company and had lost hope in receiving justice. However, Rob and his team refused to let this injustice persist.

With unwavering dedication, the lawyers at Wilhite Law Firm embarked on a journey to uncover the truth. They delved deep into the evidence, leaving no stone unturned, until they had assembled a compelling case that proved the client’s innocence. Through their tireless efforts, they managed to secure a settlement of $1.275 million to cover the client’s medical expenses and damages. The client, now able to rebuild their life, found solace in the knowledge that the law could indeed serve justice.

Beyond their remarkable success in the courtroom, the Wilhite Law Firm extended its commitment to making a positive impact within the community. They recognized the importance of fostering a safe environment, particularly during occasions when the risk of drunk driving soars. To combat this issue, the firm established their renowned Rideshare Program. During holidays throughout the year, they reimburse individuals who opt for cabs or rideshares instead of driving under the influence. This simple act of goodwill saves lives and demonstrates the firm’s dedication to protecting the community from harm.

Moreover, the Wilhite Law Firm embraces a love for animals and has partnered with the Dumb Friends League, an organization committed to finding forever homes for vulnerable animals in need. By supporting this noble cause, they display a deep compassion that extends beyond the courtroom.

The Wilhite Law Firm continues to challenge the stereotypes associated with lawyers. They prove that the legal profession can be a force for good, that justice can be pursued with integrity and empathy. Through their unwavering dedication, they provide a glimmer of hope to those who have lost faith in the system.

Robert D. Wilhite III and his team stand tall, a testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and the unwavering belief that every individual deserves a fair chance. The Wilhite Law Firm reminds the world that behind the facade of stereotypes there’s a group of exceptional individuals striving to make a difference, one case at a time. 

Marisco’s El Rey: Bringing the Flavor of Sinaloa to Colorado’s Culinary Scene

Nestled in the heart of Colorado, a state known for its stunning mountain ranges and diverse culinary experiences, lies a hidden gem that has been making waves in the food scene since its inception in 2005. Marisco’s El Rey, the first Sinaloa style seafood restaurant in Colorado, has been captivating the taste buds of locals and visitors alike with its authentic flavors and dedication to culinary excellence.

Founded by the visionary the Valenzuela family, Marisco’s El Rey started its journey in a modest building on Dayton Street. From the very beginning, their passion for cooking and his unwavering commitment to providing the best food and service set the restaurant apart. What makes Marisco’s El Rey truly exceptional is their constant quest for innovation and his relentless pursuit of new Sinaloa style options to tantalize the palates of his patrons.

One of the key factors that distinguishes Marisco’s El Rey from other establishments is their commitment to crafting his own custom seasonings and sauces. These secret recipes infuse each dish with a unique burst of flavors that transport diners to the vibrant coastal regions of Sinaloa, Mexico. From the tantalizing heat of his homemade salsas to the perfectly balanced blend of herbs and spices, every bite at Marisco’s El Rey is a culinary adventure that leaves patrons craving for more.

Colorado, with its diverse population and adventurous food culture, warmly embraced Marisco’s El Rey as soon as its doors opened. As one of the few Sinaloa style restaurants in the bustling city of Denver, Marisco’s El Rey quickly gained a loyal following. Word of mouth spread like wildfire, and soon people were driving hours from neighboring towns to indulge in the irresistible delicacies offered by this culinary haven.

The menu at Marisco’s El Rey is a carefully curated selection of seafood dishes, showcasing the finest ingredients and the masterful touch of the Valenzuela family and their team. From the vibrant oyster ceviche bursting with zesty flavors to the succulent shrimp and fish tacos, each dish is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The signature Sinaloa-style shrimp coco aguachile, bathed in a tangy coconut lime marinade, is an item that has become a favorite among patrons.

Beyond the extraordinary food, Marisco’s El Rey prides itself on delivering exceptional service and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The attentive and friendly staff members treat every guest like family, ensuring that their dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment patrons step foot in the restaurant, they are greeted with genuine hospitality and an ambiance that reflects the vibrant spirit of Sinaloa.

Marisco’s El Rey’s impact on Colorado’s culinary scene cannot be overstated. By introducing the first Sinaloa style seafood restaurant to the state, The Valenzuela Family has not only created a dining establishment but also a cultural experience. Through his culinary artistry, he has brought the essence of Sinaloa’s coastal cuisine to landlocked Colorado, giving locals and visitors an opportunity to savor flavors they might have only dreamt of experiencing.

As Marisco’s El Rey continues to evolve and innovate, The Valenzuela’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering. The restaurant’s status as the first of its kind in Colorado is a testament to their vision and his relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or an adventurous foodie seeking new horizons, Marisco’s El Rey promises a gastronomic journey that will leave you craving for more. So, venture into the heart of Colorado and indulge in the extraordinary flavors of Sinaloa at Marisco’s El Rey.

Jimmy Suds Car Wash: Good. Clean. Fun.

Your ultimate car wash experience.

In the heart of Lakewood, where large chain car washes dominate the landscape, there’s a gem that shines with its commitment to family values and exceptional service. Jimmy Suds Car Wash, Denver’s only car wash rated 4.9 on Google, is not just a place to get your car cleaned; it’s an experience that leaves you with a smile. With a Kids Happy Hour, a “Clean Car Guarantee,” and an unwavering dedication to community values, Jimmy Suds Car Wash stands as a shining example of what a local business can achieve.

While their competitors may have the advantage of scale, Jimmy Suds Car Wash’s unique approach and attention to detail and customer service set them apart. They embrace the challenge, ensuring that every customer who drives through their tunnel receives a personalized and unforgettable experience. Whether it’s striking up a friendly conversation, offering a piece of candy, or addressing any concerns with utmost professionalism, the staff at Jimmy Suds always put their customers first.

Kids Happy Hour: Sweetening the Suds

Jimmy Suds Car Wash understands the importance of creating magical moments for families. Every day from 3 pm until closing time, they host a Kids Happy Hour, a time dedicated to spreading joy and putting smiles on the faces of children of all ages. During this time, free popsicles are handed out, transforming a routine car wash into an adventure filled with laughter and delight.

Jimmy Suds Car Wash also extends their love and care to our furry friends offering free dog treats.  

The “Clean Car Guarantee” and Beyond

When it comes to their work, Jimmy Suds Car Wash takes immense pride in what they do. Their signature “Protect It” wash not only leaves your car gleaming but also comes with a “Clean Car Guarantee.” If you are not completely satisfied with the results, they will rewash your vehicle free of charge. This unwavering commitment to perfection ensures that customers leave with not only a clean car but also peace of mind.

In an unwavering pursuit of excellence, Jimmy Suds Car Wash goes above and beyond by offering a remarkable incentive: the first car wash is absolutely FREE. For more information, visit GetAFreeWash.com or go.JimmySuds.com/free.

Amenities Galore: Going the Extra Mile

At Jimmy Suds Car Wash, no detail is overlooked when it comes to customer satisfaction. They offer a wide range of amenities included with every car wash, designed to exceed customer expectations. From free vacuums, microfiber towels, and glass and interior cleaners to air wands, pet hair removal tools, and even Lakewood’s only WeatherTech mat cleaning system, they ensure a truly exceptional experience. Additionally, they understand the unique needs of pet owners and provide a Dog Hair Cleaning Kit, complete with a specialized hair removal brush, stone, and special vacuum attachments to tackle the challenge.

Hometown Values and Family First

As a cornerstone of the Lakewood community, Jimmy Suds Car Wash embodies the values that make their hometown special. They believe in the power of local businesses to create a positive impact and actively contribute to the community. Whether it’s participating in local school fundraisers, supporting community events, or fostering connections with residents, Jimmy Suds Car Wash embraces their role, proving that community values can thrive even in the face of large chain competition.

If you’re looking for more than just a car wash, then Jimmy Suds Car Wash is the place to be. Support a local business that puts its heart and soul into every interaction and leave with a Clean. Dry. Shiny Car and a smile on your face.

Wendy Cottingham: The Visionary behind Colorado Music Institute, Inc.

In the world of music, there are those who are born with natural talent and an innate passion for melodies and rhythms. Then, there are individuals like Wendy Cottingham, who may not have a musical background but possess the resolve to make a difference. Wendy is the current owner of Colorado Music Institute, Inc., a family-owned business that has been in operation since 1996. Her  efforts have transformed the struggling institute into a thriving musical hub, earning numerous accolades and a reputation for excellence.

In 2018, the institute faced an uncertain future, with Wendy’s husband and mother-in-law struggling to keep the business afloat. Despite their efforts, the business was on the verge of closure, just two weeks away from shutting its doors forever. However, Wendy refused to let her family’s legacy fade away. Armed with an unwavering determination, she made the bold decision to take charge and save the institute.

Music was not Wendy’s primary field of expertise, but she quickly learned that her love for people and building relationships could be the driving force behind her success. Wendy quickly immersed herself in the world of music, learning the intricacies of running a music institute and understanding the needs and aspirations of students. She realized that music is not just about learning notes and scales; it is about the joy it brings and the connections it fosters.

Under Wendy’s leadership, Colorado Music Institute experienced a transformation. The once-struggling institute flourished, expanding its reach and impact within the community. Wendy’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere resonated with students, teachers, and staff, resulting in a diverse population that reflects the vibrant spirit of Colorado. Wendy’s dedication to ensuring that music truly is for everyone is evident in the wide range of lessons offered, catering to individuals aged 18 months to 96 years old. Regardless of age, instrument choice, genre preference, or level of experience, Wendy and her team strive to provide the guidance and support needed to nurture each student’s musical journey.

One of Wendy’s greatest achievements is the exponential growth of the institute. From a modest 190 students, she spearheaded its expansion to 1,200 students. This remarkable increase is a testament to the trust and confidence that students and their families place in Wendy and her team. She has created an environment where individuals of all ages and skill levels can pursue their passion for music and find their own unique voices.

Wendy’s dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2022, Colorado Music Institute, Inc. was honored with the prestigious title of National Music School of the Year, recognizing the institute’s outstanding commitment to music education and its remarkable impact on students’ lives. In 2023, the institute received another accolade, being named the Best of Mile High, further solidifying its position as a leading institution in the region.

One of Wendy’s guiding principles is that if Colorado Music Institute cannot meet a student’s needs, they will go above and beyond to find them the assistance they require. This commitment to individualized attention and finding the right resources has earned Wendy and her team the trust and gratitude of countless individuals seeking to explore the magic of music.

In the realm of music education, Wendy Cottingham’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, passion, and an unwavering belief in the transformative nature of music. Her resolute efforts to rescue and revitalize Colorado Music Institute have not only saved a cherished family business but have also created a sanctuary where individuals from all walks of life can discover the joy and fulfillment that music brings.

What Makes the Best of Mile High the Best?

No other “best of” contest cares about getting it right as much as Best of Mile High does, period. What sets Best of Mile High apart is our relentless aim to find and recognize the very best companies and places that the Denver metro area has to offer.
We’re able to find the best because we do it differently:
» No pay to play — participation is free.
» You choose the nominees; we don’t.
» Online reviews help determine the winners.

Gone are the days of the glorified popularity contest that allows companies to win with an endless supply of duplicate votes provided by employees. With Best of Mile High, tricksters are unable to manipulate the results!

STEPPING UP OUR GAME

Did you know? We take pride in ensuring our results are fair and accurate.

#1: Text Message Registration
To reduce duplicates, our voting software utilizes text message verification. This security feature is a great boon to maintaining the integrity of your vote.
#2: BBB Partnership
Could a company truly be named the “best” if they’ve lost their accreditation with the Better Business Bureau? No, and neither should companies with negative BBB ratings.
Thanks to our local BBB office, which provided access to its expansive company data, we were able to filter out those that came up short.

HOW IT WORKS

There are three stages to Best of Mile High, all of which may increase a contestant’s chances of winning:

Nominations
December 7 – 18, 2022 — We launched by opening up the nominations to anyone living in the Denver metro area.

Voting
January 30 – February 15, 2023 — After determining the top nominees in each category, we opened up the voting round.
Nominees didn’t mess around either. Many got the word out to their customers on social media. In the end, we came away with the top three finalists in each category.


Reviews
February 16, 2022 – February 15, 2023 — In reality, the contest started before it even started! We counted the reviews and ratings for each finalist from the previous twelve calendar months.


Announcing the Winners
April 12, 2023 — Once all the data was in, we added the vote total to the review score for each finalist. This final score determined the winners.
We were so grateful for the support we received over the past few months and we had a great time celebrating with all of you! Thank you!!

Our 2023 Business Award Winners Are…

Did you notice that we announced our 2023 Best of Mile High Business Award winners?

Congrats to all the Top 3 finalists and winners of this year’s awards. It’s quite the accomplishment and you should be proud of yourselves!

Awards Ceremony

Last week we were fortunate enough to celebrate with a sold out audience of nearly 300 people representing dozens of candidates.

Zac Maas entertained us with a comedy show, we had over $2,000 in door prizes that we gave away, and the cash bar and catered dessert bar was amazing.

Oh yeah, and then there’s the awards! We announced the results of the categories that were represented in person at the ceremony. Attendance wasn’t required to win, but it sure was required if you wanted to have a good time.

Take a look at the photos from the event. And if you didn’t make it, hopefully we’ll see you there next year!

Be sure to download the free marketing graphics we have prepared for all of our finalists. These images can be accessed through our online dashboard.

Thank You!

It’s been such a wonderful year and we’ve really enjoyed putting on this year’s Business Awards.

From our entire team at Inbound Systems that run and operate Best of Mile High, we want to thank you, the candidates and residents of the Denver Metro Area. Your participation is paramount to anything we do for the program.

Also, a shout out to our 2023 sponsors. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to put on these awards. It takes a lot of time and effort to manage the nominations, votes, reviews, awards ceremony, magazine, plaques, etc. So, thank you again to our sponsors.

Announcing our 2023 Finalists!

Voting for our 2023 Best of Mile High Business Awards is now closed, but we want to thank everyone who participated.

We had a phenomenal inaugural year, with nearly 8,000 votes over 297 categories!

Way to go Denver!

Special Thanks To…

Our weekly Hump Day Giveaway was also a hit.

The credit for this can also be shared by our wonderful Hump Day Giveaway sponsors and their generosity:

What’s Next?

You may have noticed, finalists were announced on our website and social media today. Keep an eye on your mail, as we’ll also be reaching out to finalists there with more details.

In addition to votes, the winner of each category will be determined by their Google reviews from the previous 12 months. Combining the vote total with the review score will give us our winners. We’ll first announce the winners at the Best of Mile High Awards Ceremony . Then, we’ll publish the results online and in our Best of Mile High 2023 Magazine.

The 2023 Best of Mile High Awards Ceremony will take place at The Grand Ballroom at the Denver Athletic Club in downtown Denver on Wednesday, April 12. Tickets start as low as $55, with VIP tickets priced at $95. Ticket will be available on our website starting Thursday, March 9th at 10am. Tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis. We anticipate tickets will sell out.

Thanks again for all your support!