Carolina Hemp Hut Selected as Best of Chapel Hill 2020

Best of Chapel Hill Magazine selects Carolina Hemp Hut as best recipient
Main Store: Carolina Hemp Hut - Hillsborough, NC

Carolina Hemp Hut in Hillsborough proudly earned the title of Best New Business in Chapel Hill, as chosen by the readers of Chapel Hill Magazine. This exciting recognition highlights the heart and hustle of the Carolina Hemp Hut team. It’s not just a trophy on a shelf—this award represents the trust, support, and enthusiasm of the local community. From day one, Carolina Hemp Hut has worked hard to educate, support, and serve people with the healing potential of hemp.

Founder Mary Lopez Carter was thrilled when she found out about the award. She said, “The hemp industry can be tough because of the stigma around cannabis. People still come into our Hillsborough store and are surprised to find out we sell cannabis products, especially Industrial Hemp.” That kind of misunderstanding is common, especially in North Carolina, where hemp laws are still evolving. But Carolina Hemp Hut makes it easy for customers to understand the difference.

What Is Industrial Hemp and Why Does It Matter?

In North Carolina, Industrial Hemp means cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC. THC is the compound that makes marijuana users feel “high.” But hemp products, including those sold at Carolina Hemp Hut, are non-intoxicating and perfectly legal. Everything in their store is tested and verified to meet these strict guidelines. That means customers can shop with confidence, knowing their products are both safe and compliant with the law.

At Carolina Hemp Hut, education is a huge part of the mission. Mary and her team don’t just sell hemp—they teach people about it. Whether a customer is dealing with pain, stress, or sleep issues, or just wants to explore wellness options, the staff is there to help, without judgment.

How It All Started: From a Kiosk to Two Thriving Stores

Carolina Hemp Hut started small. Back in 2018, Mary opened a tiny kiosk at The Streets at Southpoint Mall in Durham. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to spark something special. The more people stopped by, the more they realized hemp might help them.

As demand grew, so did the business. The kiosk was quickly outgrown, and soon Carolina Hemp Hut opened two full brick-and-mortar locations—one in Hillsborough and another on Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard in Durham. Today, these shops are more than stores. They’re wellness hubs for customers across the Triangle and beyond.

CBD store Carolina Hemp Hut with a selection of Charlott's Web and other CBD droops

Why Customers Keep Coming Back

One thing that makes Carolina Hemp Hut different is the sheer variety. The store offers more than 1,000 different products, including CBD tinctures, THC-free oils, topicals, Delta 8 THC gummies, live rosin edibles, hemp flower, vapes, and more. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned wellness shopper, there’s something here for everyone.

But it’s not just the products—it’s the people. The team behind the counter is trained to help guide each person to the right option for their specific needs. Customers often come in unsure or overwhelmed, but they leave feeling informed and cared for. Mary puts it best: “A small amount of THC can be very beneficial for those who can use it. It’s the only cannabinoid known to bind with the endocannabinoid receptors in the human body.”

Still, not everyone wants or can use THC. Some people face drug testing at work or prefer to stay away from intoxicating compounds altogether. Carolina Hemp Hut understands that. That’s why they carry a full lineup of THC-free options, too.

Carolina Hemp Hut offers the largest selection of in store hemp and cannabis products along with mushroom vapes and functional mushrooms

A Business Built on Personal Healing

The passion behind Carolina Hemp Hut comes from a very real and personal place. Mary Lopez Carter didn’t launch her business to cash in on a trend. She started it because her husband was battling malignant tumors, and she was desperate to find something that would ease his suffering.

“I knew there had to be a way for nature to help heal,” Mary says. “I’m so glad I found legal cannabis as a solid option for many people to improve their lives by helping with the discomfort they face.”

What started as a personal journey grew into something much bigger. Today, Carolina Hemp Hut is not only helping her family, but it’s also helping thousands of others across the country. Through compassionate service and top-tier products, the business continues to grow while staying true to its roots.

Trust, Safety, and Consistency

One of the biggest concerns people have when trying hemp products for the first time is quality. Carolina Hemp Hut removes the guesswork. Every product is thoroughly lab-tested to ensure it meets safety and potency standards. No mystery ingredients. No shady sourcing. Just clean, effective hemp solutions that work.

This attention to quality has built a reputation that reaches beyond Hillsborough and Durham. Customers from all over North Carolina and nearby states drive in—or order online—because they trust the brand.

Giving Back and Lifting Others Up

Beyond retail, Carolina Hemp Hut also believes in giving back. The team regularly partners with local nonprofits, donates to important causes, and even hosts educational events to share the science and safety behind hemp. They want to create lasting, positive change—not just ring up sales.

Mary’s goal isn’t just to be successful. She wants to leave a legacy of hope, healing, and understanding. That’s why Carolina Hemp Hut always puts people over profits, always.

A Leader in Hemp Education

Carolina Hemp Hut sets itself apart with one major advantage, They aren’t here to just sell their products, they teach people how to use them. From blog posts and newsletters to in-store consultations, the staff makes it easy to learn about hemp’s many benefits. Customers often come in with important questions, especially if they’re new to hemp. Many want to know the difference between CBD and Delta 8, and the staff takes time to explain how each compound works in the body and what kind of experience to expect.

Others worry about whether hemp products will show up on a drug test or wonder if they can safely use CBD while taking other medications. These are common concerns, and the team addresses each one with care and clarity. By keeping things simple and approachable, Carolina Hemp Hut helps people feel more confident about their wellness choices. The goal is always to empower, not overwhelm, and that’s exactly what makes their educational efforts so effective.

 

Looking Ahead: Growth with Purpose

As the hemp industry evolves, Carolina Hemp Hut is ready to lead. The company plans to expand its product line, continue exploring new cannabinoids, and offer even more wellness support. With a team that’s always learning and adapting, there’s no limit to what’s next.

They’re also increasing their community involvement. Plans are in motion to host more workshops, support more local events, and collaborate with other businesses to keep bringing positive vibes to the Triangle.

Why Carolina Hemp Hut Stands Above the Rest

So what makes Carolina Hemp Hut the Best New Business? It’s not just the recognition from Chapel Hill Magazine, though that’s a big deal. It’s the consistent focus on customer care, education, quality, and heart. Mary and her team don’t treat this as just retail—it’s a mission.

The store welcomes everyone, from newcomers, to skeptics, and seasoned hemp lovers alike. Everyone is treated with kindness and respect, and nobody walks out the door confused. That’s rare in this industry, and it’s why so many people keep coming back.

Plan Your Visit (Or Shop Online!)

If you’re near Hillsborough or Durham, stop by and see what all the buzz is about. Both locations offer the same warm welcome and knowledgeable staff. You’ll find products you can trust, people who care, and a vibe that feels more like a wellness retreat than a retail shop.

Can’t make it in person? Carolina Hemp Hut’s online store is fully stocked and ships nationwide. With fast shipping, secure checkout, and detailed product info, shopping from home is a breeze. Plus, the team is always available to answer questions via phone or email.

Sign up for their newsletter to get access to educational tips, discount codes, and first dibs on new product drops. It’s one of the best ways to stay informed while saving money.

Voting for 2025 Begins in April!

Carolina Hemp Hut has already made history, but they’re not done yet. Voting for the 2025 Best of Chapel Hill Awards kicks off this April. If you believe in supporting local businesses that care, keep an eye out for the voting link and cast your vote for Carolina Hemp Hut. Every vote helps shine a light on a business that’s truly making a difference.

Whether you’re looking for natural relief, trusted products, or a welcoming place to learn more about hemp, Carolina Hemp Hut delivers. Come see why the community calls them the best—and help them bring home another win in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Carolina Hemp Hut was chosen as the Best New Business by Chapel Hill Magazine readers for its great products and excellent service.

Carolina Hemp Hut offers high-quality hemp products with less than 0.3% THC, focusing on customer health and safety.

You can find Carolina Hemp Hut stores in Hillsborough and Durham, NC, or shop online at https://CarolinaHempHut.com with shipping nationwide.

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