Best Day Wilmington: Jill McGlaughlin

What’s a woman to do with an idyllic sunny day in Wilmington, no appointments, and perhaps most importantly, no budget? 

That’s what we asked JILL McGLAUGHLIN, who is the co-founder and CEO of Magnolia Grove Design & Cabinetry. The design studio, at 2305 Market Street, is a 1920s bungalow that McGlaughlin renovated with her husband and business partner, CHAD.  

The duo had a well-established kitchen and bath business in Harrisonburg, Virginia, but started spending more time with family at Carolina Beach during the pandemic. In 2021, they began operating a second business at the beach, but the distance eventually became too much for Jill McGlaughlin: “I said, I can’t run these two (businesses) and be driving six hours back and forth,” she says. For her, the choice was clear: “This is where we want to be long term.” 

She and her family permanently relocated to Carolina Beach in February 2025 and have been steadily building their Magnolia Grove business. 

“With remodeling work, you get to do some fun things … with going into a home and reimagining a space,” Jill McGlaughlin says, adding that she sees many requests for taking out a wall to open up a living space and for rearranging kitchen layouts. 

She draws inspiration from the coastal landscape, too. “Some of the houses we’ve been privileged to work on have amazing views on the waterway,” she says. “It’s fun to see where someone gets to live … and how beautiful it is.” 

Here’s how Jill McGlaughlin would spend an ideal day in Wilmington: 

How are you starting your day?   

“For me, a perfect day always begins with both stillness and movement! I wake before sunrise, savor a quiet cup of coffee and meditation before heading to CrossFit Carolina Beach, in Monkey Junction, where I leave it all on the floor, along with plenty of sweat.” 

Where would you go next?   

“After getting ready for the day, I would head to Drift Coffee-Carolina Beach at the Proximity. It is so bright, welcoming, and prefect spot to grab a latte and protein bowl whether I am enjoying a quiet moment alone or catching up with a gym bestie.” 

What’s for lunch?  

“I would meet my husband and head to Mayfaire to Coquina Fishbar. It is another bright and inviting space we love, and I absolutely love their ahi tuna salad, and he goes straight for their tacos!” 

How are you spending your afternoon?  

“In the afternoon, I would unwind at Head to Toe Day Spa. After an intense morning workout, nothing feels better than a deep tissue massage followed by a rejuvenating facial. It is the ultimate place to relax; they offer everything you could ever ask for.” 

Where are you stopping for a drink?  

“After a relaxing afternoon, I would head down to the Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar in Carolina Beach for a Pim’s Cove cocktail overlooking the beach and surf. With its laid-back, beachy vibe, it immediately feels like a mini vacation, even if just for an hour or two.”  

How about dinner?  

“For dinner, I would make my way downtown to manna in Wilmington. From the menu to the cocktails, atmosphere and service, everything is top notch. They offer fresh, local ingredients and offer creative, thoughtfully crafted dishes. With having dietary restrictions, I truly value a kitchen that can accommodate with ease and not compromise the experience.” 

How are you spending the rest of your evening?  

“To close out the evening, we’d head over to the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Set in a beautiful setting by the lake, the intimate seating makes the show feel up-close and personal. It’s a delightful venue and the early curfew ensures you’re home at a reasonable time.” 

Editor’s note: Some responses were edited for clarity. 

To view more of photographer Aris Harding’s work, go to arisharding.com.

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