Winners of the "A Heart As Big As Texas" 30th Birthday Contest
Congrats to the 30 winners who will receive trips for two in September to our world headquarters in Austin to help us celebrate our 30th birthday. These winners will be treated to a VIP culinary weekend event provided by Whole Foods Market and our anniversary partners, Texas Tourism, JetBlue Airways and the Radisson Austin.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to share your special stories and memories on why you love Whole Foods Market. We had a great time reviewing all of the entries!
By the way, we officially turn 30 on Monday, September 20. We'll host "30 Years Fresh" festivities during the weekend of September 17 at all of our stores across North America and the U.K. So, even if you didn't win a trip to Austin, you can still join the party! Now, happy travels to these winners:
- Amy in California
- Angela in Hawaii
- Anjanette in Florida
- Annmarie in Michigan
- Anthony in Virginia
- Beth in Pennsylvania
- Charles in Washington
- Clare in Texas
- Claudia in Michigan
- David in Colorado
- Donna in Florida
- Donna in South Carolina
- Dustin in Ontario
- Gayle in Massachusetts
- Gian in Massachusetts
- Jan in Florida
- Jo in California
- Justin in New York
- Karee in Oklahoma
- Karen in Utah
- Kathleen in Virginia
- Kristin in California
- Marianne in Arizona
- Melissa in Washington
- Merit in California
- Michael and Stephanie in Georgia
- Mindy in New Mexico
- Sadie in Texas
- Sarah in Massachusetts
- Shawna in Oregon
30th Birthday Trip Contest: Winning Entries
Amy
Shops at the Coddingtown store in Santa Rosa, CA
I was born on January 1, 1985 but not in Texas. I baked a cake as big as Texas but now I can't. (Gluten-Free birthday: November 30, 2006) I ate a steak as big as Texas but now I don't. (Vegetarian birthday: September 21, 2008.) I had a thyroid as big as Texas but now it's gone. (Thyroidectomy birthday: March 17, 2009) And yet, despite a crooked toe on my left foot, a few sprained ankles, a freckle in my eye, Celiac Disease, Dermatitis Herpetiformis, four extracted wisdom teeth, Graves Disease, and post-surgical Hypocalcemia I am WHOLE. Healed with whole foods (asparagus, broccoli, buckwheat, coconut water, elderberry, figs, ginger, magnesium, maple syrup, pineapple, pistachios, quinoa and watermelon) from Whole Foods. And through it all I've learned: My BODY is a temple. LESS (animal protein, artificial colors + flavors + sweeteners, auto-immune disease, bisphenol A, dairy, gluten, genetically modified organisms, herbicides, high fructose corn syrup, monosodium glutamate, nitrates, partially hydrogenated oils, pesticides, processing, preservatives, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, sugar alcohols, trans fats) is MORE. The tide ALWAYS turns. And, oh, don't MESS with Texas.
Angela
Shops at the Kahala store in Honolulu, HI
My Love Affair With Whole Foods
I admit it, I am obsessed with Whole Foods. Ever since I was introduced to Whole Foods by a friend, it was love at first taste. It has since been a major part of my life, I am absolutely addicted. There are so many great qualities about Whole Foods: the amazing local produce, the delectable hot food bar, the bountiful and healthful salad bar, the divine fresh desserts, the expansive meat and seafood section, and I must not forget to mention the sexy Organic-ness of it all.
I follow Whole Foods everywhere I go. Each time I vacation somewhere new, I make it a priority to discover and meet with Whole Foods while I am there. There have been so many amazing visits to Whole Foods around the country: Portland, Minneapolis, Seattle, Chicago, Las Vegas, Phoenix, New York, and Honolulu. I have to say that the Honolulu Whole Foods is dearest to my heart as it is in my hometown. I am grateful that Whole Foods Hawaii carries local Hawaiian products, from their local and succulent pineapple, mangoes, and collard greens to the delicious locally made body products, soaps, and lotions that are so soothing to the senses. However, I love all Whole Foods equally, they are all unique and magnificent in their own special ways.
Overall, I have been delighted, amazed and nourished by Whole Foods and its Greatness. Just as Whole Foods continually provides me with top quality service and goods, I will continue to be loyal and wholeheartedly lovestruck with Whole Foods.
Anjanette
Shops at the Bayhill store in Orlando, FL
Look no further; your most "Faithful Customer of the Year" is here! My friends say I should have my very own parking space, because I shop at Whole Foods at least three times a week! If I didn't know any better, I would say my husband just might be a little jealous of how much time I spend shopping at the store and attending the informative classes offered. He says the store is my "man on the side" and to make sure I bring him home a plate! We both LOVE the store! My husband, mother and I started eating natural and organic foods about 4 years ago when my mother was diagnosed with cancer. We researched stores that offered organic foods, eco cleaning supplies and even natural make-up. Whole Foods has ALL of what we were looking for and more! We enjoy the samples, community outreach days and the friendly staff that remembers what type of seafood I get, to the butcher who gets my grass-fed meats ready for me as he sees me walking down the aisle. I definitely can't forget the bakery — which makes sure my six-pack of cupcakes are half chocolate and half vanilla! We ALL have kicked processed foods to the curb and picked up the healthier way of life. My mother went to her doctor for a check-up and the doctors were amazed at her labs. They asked her what she was doing and she told them that she decided to eat natural and organic foods and that her daughter has turned her into Whole Foods junkie! I'm thankful that this store has literally made a life-changing impact on my family.
Annmarie
Shops at the Ann Arbor store in Ann Arbor, MI
"It's not easy being Green" said Kermit the Frog but that's because he didn't have Whole Foods! Whole Foods has helped my life become healthier and I have to drive an hour and 35 minutes to my closest Whole Foods but I do with a smile on my face (a smile as big as Texas) — knowing what's IN STORE for me! I sure wish I had one in my hometown. We pack a cooler and off we go! The WHOLE experience is wonderful — atmosphere, variety and staff! Regular stores just don't understand the concept — they must think it's a fad. The other stores mainly carry brands that lead you to believe they are "organic", brands that could have and should have had organic, healthy options but have only "joined in" now that it is more widely known and accepted. These brands are copycats and Whole Foods has the "real brands"...the brands that have always "lived life organically and naturally"! I have people ask me to pick them up something they've learned about from me on my next trip to Whole Foods. Whole Foods commits themselves to the community, their partners, their customers, and the environment. They teach, support and have fun and share that with everyone that enters the store or the website. Whole Foods is Whole Hearted Goodness! I love Whole Foods and I know Whole Foods loves me (and takes care of me!) Happy Birthday Whole Foods!
Anthony
Shops at the Fair Lakes store in Fairfax, VA
Honey, we're going grocery shopping. Words many husbands dread, no? Well, I dreaded them myself until my wife discovered Whole Foods. I'll admit it — most manly men like myself are a little late on the organic-green-healthy scene. Whole Foods has educated me that organic and healthy are really code words for delicious. Who knew fresh foods that aren't loaded with fillers and chemicals could be so TASTY? From New York quality pizza, to delicious beers, I'm in manly-mans paradise when I pick up dinner these days. Hey, it's not all pizza and beer with me. I am married so once in a while it's a romantic dinner for two. Thanks to Whole Foods, cooking is easy with several items I can simply heat and serve. Happy Valentines Day dear wife, enjoy your bisque and baguette without worry over whether its processed junk. You're welcome. Whole Foods, you helped me knock it out of the park with your fantastic roses on Valentines Day. Not only did you have a great bargain, your blooms were also extremely high quality. Thanks for making it easy to impress the love of my life. I was pleasantly surprised when I found out Whole Foods originated in Austin, Texas. Austin is a city I love to visit and I enjoyed being Austin's neighbor while working in Houston a couple of years ago. While they say, Keep Austin Weird, I am glad you helped keep Austin healthy for the last 30 years. Here's to you, Whole Foods, wishing you another 30 eco-responsible years transforming Americas eating habits.
Beth
Shops at the Plymouth Meeting store in Plymouth Meeting, PA
I love you, Whole Foods,
Oh, yes I do.
From your free-range bison to your vindaloo.
If I want olives, you have twenty-two.
Oh, Whole Foods, I love you!
The chickens are free range, the berries organic.
The Salazon chocolate makes me orgasmic.
The Fage yogurt that's so super thick
Oh, Whole Foods, you're my pick!
I love the prepared foods when I'm tired of cooking.
Or whole fish with heads on when company's coming.
Your cheerful fishmonger helps me cook this large thing
Oh, Whole Foods, you're the king!
Coenzyme Q10 so my heart keeps on tickin'.
Fish oil capsules so my blood don't start stickin'.
And maybe some ice cream because I need a lickin'
Oh, Whole Foods, you make me grin!
You introduced me to pluots, organic kale, too.
My fondness for blue cheese? I learned that from you.
From breakfast 'til bedtime Whole Foods sees me through ...
Oh, Whole Foods, I love you!
Charles
Shops at the Redmond store in Redmond, WA
My response is in the form of a poem. Please enjoy!!
How much do you love Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market, located in Redmond, Washington
A preferred store to shop as my number one
For reasons of benefits, standards and quality it completes
My continuing devotion always totals the greatest amount of receipts
The many choices among competitors and restaurants in town
But stepping into Whole Foods always turns my frown upside down
An established energy built from principles it holds
Immediately walking through the glass door the feeling unfolds
Employees eager to greet with a smile cheek-to-cheek
Utilizing their expertise among the natural products I seek
Prepared foods, pizza, cheese and meats galore
A pint of gelato is something I always budget for
Strolling the store, pushing a modern shopping cart in hand
Connecting the dots, searching for each sample stand
Aisles displaying a bright, clean and organized look
But the smell from the bakery reels me in on a hook
Even planned a summer driving trip around the U.S.A.
Exploring and sightseeing; traveling through Labor Day
Each destination had a mapped and predetermined colorful glow
Of a Whole Foods Market sign under the rainbow
Active community involvement, donations and competitive pricing
Maintaining strong core values is the company's icing
I will continue to sing at the top of my lungs
Preaching the many benefits Whole Foods Market provides off my tongue
Clare
Shops at the Lakewood store in Dallas, TX
Some people have shopping habits. Some people have drug habits. Others habitually speed. Some folks might even have really good habits like flossing everyday. I, on the other hand, have a bona fide Whole Foods habit. It's not just that I do my weekly grocery shopping at Whole Foods. Cheesy as it might sound, my Lakewood store is like a little parenthesis in the otherwise chaotic, fast-paced daily grind that life can turn into when you're not looking. And what makes a grocery store my refuge? It's different things on different days. Row upon row of beautiful looking produce makes my quasi-vegetarian heart happy. I could try a new cheese every week and seemingly never run out of options. My husband dreams of the dry aged steaks. The coffee is a treat when I'm trying to psych myself up for a big day at work. And nothing goes better with my tomato soup than their jalapeno cheddar bread. But more than all of these things, my Whole Foods seems like a little community within the community. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, quirky as all get out and I love it. They remember me and make jokes and suggest foods I might want to try. They sing along to the songs piped into the store. It's the people behind my Whole Foods that keep me coming back every week. Where else are you going to find the beer guy singing along to Madonna?
Claudia
Shops at the Somerset store in Troy, MI
Do I love Whole Foods? You bet I do! There's so much to love, you haven't a clue. There veggies with no pesticides to be seen, not a nitrite or nitrate or anything mean. Each item you buy is tasty, clean & pure, your health is protected, no need for a cure. The staff is friendly & helpful & kind, the return policy easy, if you're in a bind.
Do I love Whole Foods? You bet I do! There's so much to love, you haven't a clue. The artichoke dip is the best in the land, the baby food better than anything canned. Local produce is featured, organic galore, it's all so delicious, the best in any store. Vitamins, shampoo, makeup & more, without toxic chemicals, nothing to abhor. The salad bar spills over, choices abound. Lunch there often is where I can be found.
Do I love Whole Foods? You bet I do! There's so much to love, you haven't a clue. Selection is great, as large as can be, of specialty foods that are additive free. I could go on and on, there is so much to love Suffice it to say, there is much more than the above. My hat's off to this wonderful store, a leader in making our world better, for sure. They think big & lead in the way that they stock to be certain their customers get a bang for their buck! So listen to me, & shop there today, you'll be better off in one hundred different ways.
Do I love Whole Foods? You bet I do. I'm healthy & happy & I DO have a clue. Their heart can be found in just the right place, bigger than Texas, protecting the whole human race.
David
Shops at the Cherry Creek store in Denver, CO
The Top 10 Reasons Why My Love For Whole Foods Is As Big As Texas:
- When I walk in the door, I am always greeted with a great big smile, even on bad hair days.
- When I forget my lunch at home, there's a nice nutritious meal waiting for me at the Hot Bar. (OK. So I forget my lunch on purpose.)
- Gold beets, blue potatoes, yellow carrots and purple cauliflower. I can put a rainbow on my plate. It's a brand hue world.
- The smell of fresh baking bread makes me feel like a little kid. Is my mom working in your bakery?
- When I am in a rut, the email and online recipes expand my eating horizons. Quinoa Primavera, anyone?
- Free samples to nibble while I shop. Yum!
- I get to make my own fresh ground peanut butter! It stickth to da roof of my mouff.
- Location, location, location. Local food from local farmers for the win. My realtor was right.
- A credit or donation to charity for using my own bags. Sweet!
- Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Orgasmic.
Donna G.
Shops at the Palm Beach Gardens store in Palm Beach Gardens, FL
THE WHOLE FOODS BUNCH (Sung to the theme of The Brady Bunch)
Here's the story.
Of a store named Whole Foods, Which began as one store in Austin.
And this one store became more than 270, and we are very glad!
Here's the story.
Of two folks from Philly.
Who loved reading (especially Stephen King), listening to music, enjoying natural, healthful foods ....
and each other
And those two became one couple (and vegetarians) about 20 years ago.
This couple couldn't stand their smelly markets.
Which were filled with wilted veggies and shelves of processed food
So each week they drove forty-five minutes to get to Whole Foods.
Where fresh produce, helpful employees and cheeses abounded.
This store, they soon discovered ... Made grocery shopping fun!
Then this couple had two lovely babies.
Who ate Earths Best Baby Food from the greatest store in town.
Soon those babies pushed their own mini-carts around
Then this couple moved down to South Florida, Where the Whole Foods was nearly an hour away.
The trip was a fun family outing, until one lovely day ... A new Whole Foods opened nearby.
A NEW WHOLE FOODS! THEIR OWN WHOLE FOODS. THEY COULD GO THERE EVERY SINGLE DAY. HOORAY!!!
Now each birthday and celebration means treats from Whole Foods (And an occasional scrumptious
drink and lunch.) .
Then last Christmas came the promise of an Austin trip for this couple, .
Who knew they were much more than a hunch. .
They'd surely love to go to Austin and celebrate being ... proud members of The Whole Foods Bunch!
Donna R.
Shops at the Mount Pleasant store in Charleston, SC
They browse the Whole Foods website together and decide upon a dish. This one sounds unique, colorful savory. They know, without saying that this dish will be made this Friday. They always cook together every Friday. Habits, when done with best friends, become treasured rituals. This week it's vegan, with some funny vegetable they've never tried before, because they were feeling adventurous. Days later, between giggles, sips of wine, and chatter while stirring, they both taste the dish at the same time. It's a keeper. It usually is. They have the same tastes — in most things actually. And, as they discuss the meal, one looks out the window. She sees the Blackland Prairie, and dreams of the ocean — maybe someday. The other looks out the window, sees the calm South Carolina waters and dreams of bluebonnets. She'll see them ... one day. Two friends can share love food wine and life in two places far apart. I know. This story is my own. Although I cook every Friday with my best friend, she lives in Austin, and I ... in South Carolina. Two lives far away but intertwined always by shared ventures whole love, Whole Foods, and a shared heart ... as big as Texas.Dustin
Shops at the Yorkville store in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
30 reasons I love Whole Foods:
30. Your sampling efforts always open my taste buds to something new
29. Your environmental efforts as a company
28. Friendly, knowledgeable staff
27. Clean, pristine stores
26. Fair prices
25. Value for dollar
24. High food standards
23. Large selection of organic products
22. Great Deli
21. The number of options offered in the food to go category
20. The number of attractive women seen in Whole Foods on the regular :)
19. Great fish counter
18. Local efforts
17. Helpful cooking tips
16. The number of lanes you have open at any given time — great in and out mentality
15. Great meat counter
14. Healthy options
13. Recipes, recipes, recipes
12. Your ability to stay true to your values
11. Organization of aisles
10. Being different from every other grocery store
9. The Whole Foods blog(s)
8. Ongoing communication and willingness to get better and grow
7. The amount of content on your website
6. The fact you have two stores close to me (we could use some more though)
5. The fact that I've never been let down with any purchase
4. The smell of the store
3. Seasonal recipes
2. Being a pioneer in the grocery industry
1. The fact that you are going to fly me to Texas
Gayle
Shops at the Newton store in Newton, MA
Never in my life have I encountered anyone who loves Whole Foods the way that I do. My roommate finds her peace at temple; my friend does yoga. My brother drives to clear his head; I go to Whole Foods Market. Every store is a haven for me. I walk in and am intrigued by recipes, in awe of displays. Nowhere else have carrots stacked in front of me like a wall. Never before has a pile of potatoes seemed perfect. At WFM I see people like me, not simply buying groceries to fill an empty cupboard. I see people harvesting nourishment off the shelves, as a farmer would harvest his own crop. There is a sense of ownership, collectively over the story and over the health of our bodies. Whole Foods is, to me, the epicenter. It sounds dramatic; I sound crazy. But when I wander the aisles of the store, my faith is renewed. I see brands — Seventh Generation, If You Care, Recycline — and I know that there are other individuals who are as worried about the planet--as invested in saving it--as I am. I know there are entrepreneurs and food distributors who feel the way that I do. When I buy their products, I feel I am supporting them and furthering our collective goal. WFM affords me this opportunity. Without the store, I would not use most of the products I rely on each day; I would not know how many other people share my values. I am proud of the success that the market has garnered. It's gratifying to see something so great prosper so much. Watching the expansion of WFM has felt like watching the good guy triumph in a film; something inside of me is cheering, rooting you on.
Gian
Shops at the Fresh Pond store in Cambridge, MA
Where do I even begin? I have been a huge fan of yours since my childhood — growing up in New Jersey, during my college years in Washington DC, then in San Diego and now in Boston. In a sense, I have "grown up" with you — in addition to buying diverse, dynamic, sustainable food, I also enjoy the various in-store cafes and takeout: from the barbeque pit, sushi stands, pizzeria, gelateria, and so on. The turning point, when I knew it was "true love", was during the pregnancy of our son when we decided to keep my sweetie on a "100% whole foods diet" consisting of near-daily visits to your stores. Without going into all of the details on what a special time this was, from the actual pregnancy itself to the miraculous unexpected delivery in our home after a 40 min labor- we still credit the Whole Foods diet to our son's amazing entry into the world and his great health! Fast-forward to a few months ago, when we visited Austin for the first time — all of us fell completely in love with the city and are planning to move there over the next 12 months. It may be hard to believe, but we decided while at your flagship store in downtown Austin! So in many ways, Whole Foods means the world to us, as you have not only had a profound impact on the overall health and wellbeing of our family, but have played a role in influencing our decision to call Austin our home too! We would love to celebrate 30 with you.
Jan
Shops at the Jacksonville store in Jacksonville, FL
Whole Foods was the catalyst that changed my life! Before I discovered this market, I cooked and ate like a bachelor — right out of a can. Then on vacation to Atlanta, I went to a Whole Foods market and was very intrigued by the vast array of exotic and wholesome products! I began watching for recipes on TV, in which I could incorporate these special ingredients. This, in turn, led me to cooking things I would have only eaten in a restaurant. Now my husband and I live and eat more healthfully! And we both actually ENJOY my cooking now! Thanks to the Whole Foods market, my family and even our dogs are living healthier! Thanks Whole Foods! I LOVE YOU!
Jo
Shops at the Fresno store in Fresno, CA
Deep in the heart of Texas 30 years ago, a great movement began. At the time no one might have imagined the impact that the opening of one new grocery store would have on changing eating habits of Americans. It is often said that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Whole Foods Market, through allowing its heart energy to radiate beyond Texas, has touched the hearts of many people through their stomachs, creating a passion for healthy eating. In the last 30 years the natural product industry has grown to amazing levels and so has Whole Foods, expanding across the ocean to the UK. In that expansion, the core mission of Whole Foods has remained. It continues to be the leader in setting standards for manufacturers of natural and organic products, as well as motivating others to take action to protect the environment of planet Earth. When traveling I always locate the nearest Whole Foods store. I know I can count on finding high-quality, healthy food choices to be able to maintain the nutritious eating habits that my body regularly thrives on even when on vacation or a business trip. Having visited over 20 Whole Foods locations in at least 5 states, I have observed that each store, though maintaining its familiar appearance, has a unique flavor of its own. Staff is consistently upbeat and helpful, ready to assist in finding the best items to meet my needs. Despite the flood in the beginning, the acquisition challenges, and the occasional skipping of a beat, Whole Foods heartbeat remains strong and steady and ready for another 30 years of flowing through the heart of America and beyond. Happy Birthday!
Justin
Shops at the Upper West Side store in New York, NY
I'm an only child, but Whole Foods grew up with me. Both of us were born in 1980 in Austin, just a few months apart. My first memories include bulk food bins taller than my height. I was wowed by the choices, the cool staff, the vibe, and even the flood level marked on the wall. By the time I was in high school, Whole Foods had moved into fancy new digs. I wasn't a popular kid so I ended up enjoying a daily routine at lunchtime: a Solar Falafel and Good Flow juice as I camped out in front of the store reading the Austin Chronicle. I was forced to say goodbye temporarily as I traded my "tempeh" for pop tarts in college. But just as I moved to New York, the first store opened in the city. And everything I experienced in Austin was still there: the vibe, the cool staff, and the great food. Of course there was no flood marking on the wall and the cheese section had turned into a small city, but it was the same place, a little more mature and even better than before. Just a few months ago I returned to Austin for the first time in over six years, with my wife at my side. We spent a few hours enjoying the flagship store. Can you imagine this in New York?? They let you sit at a counter and eat fresh food, just like open-air markets around the world! And I fell in love all over again, with my wife, with the great dish of pasta we were enjoying, and with 30 years of Whole Foods in my life.
Karee
Shops at the Tulsa store in Tulsa, OK
How much do I love Whole Foods? Let me count the ways: I drive more than two hours (couple hundred miles) to the nearest location; I seek them out when I go on trips; I have emailed them numerous times asking for a store in Oklahoma City; I have followed them on Twitter and liked them on Facebook; I tell everyone I know they should visit a location; I can spot stores used on TV shows and I gladly reuse my whole foods bags in my everyday life (Why not they are cute!). On my last visit to the Tulsa location, I once again asked (as I always do) if a store was planned for Oklahoma City. The cashier, always friendly and helpful, gladly uttered to my delight that a store was in the works! It's official now and the sign is up just down the street from my house!! YEA! I was so excited about this discovery that I took my picture with the sign. I am even thinking about being the first customer through the doors when it opens. I have even kiddingly suggested that we should camp out for the opening. In all seriousness, it is such a joy to visit a store of Whole Foods size that not only offers such a quality brand, but also cares so much about our world and stands by their word. Thank you. Hopefully, more businesses will follow suit.
Karen
Shops at the Sugarhouse store in Salt Lake City, UT
The joke at our house (when my husband and I go on a trip to California) is "what fun stuff from WHOLE FOODS are the parents going to bring us"? Living in Southeast Idaho limits our food shopping to standard grocery stores. We first discovered the store in Petaluma, California on one of our bi-annual trips out to the Beach. While many husbands will wait patiently as their wives shop the mall or specialty stores for memorabilia of a vacation my poor husband patiently waits for me in the WHOLE FOODS parking lot!!! I have been known to spend an hour in just the Sebastapol, California store — and it's one of the little guys! In fact, we would take our WHOLE FOODS bags with us on our trips just for a "shopping spree"! Now that you have expanded into northern Utah we can take advantage of those stores and save room on vacation for the important stuff — like clothes and shoes!
Kathleen
Shops at the Short Pump store in Glen Allen, VA
When I answered, "Yes" to the question, "Do you like fish?" my home-stay father got in his boat and caught three fish; two gray ones and a vibrant turquoise one. Later, nibbling at the morsels squashed in the seams of my nails, I thought, this is fresh fish. Living on the island of Samoa was like that. Sipping on coconuts delivered moments ago by airmail, noshing on taro I'd harvested and scrambling the egg I found on my doorstep for breakfast. But the focus wasn't on how fresh it was; it was about being able to share in the celebration of eating with family and friends. Eating is, after all, about relationships. We eat to sustain life, and we love to share it with others. Which is why I love Whole Foods, where people and food are celebrated. I can find fresh food harvested by real people at affordable prices (even on my tight student budget). New ideas and recipes sparkle in-store and online, not to mention the unexpected pleasures of helpful, friendly workers and tasty samples. Unlike any other grocer, the diversity of foods makes even the plainest of days delightful. And the larger community benefits too, since sustainable practices like reusable bags are rewarded with the option to donate to local charities. Now 30 years later, it's proof that good works do not go unnoticed. Which means I can continue sharing my love of food with others, just like in Samoa. With an eye on what matters quality, community, and sustainability the future is a little tastier with Whole Foods.
Kristin
Shops at the Santa Monica store in Santa Monica, CA
Whole Foods is my long lost identical twin!!! I've always had a feeling we were separated at birth, but finding out we share the same 30th birthday led me to investigate further. I've always felt a certain kinship in the stores no matter where they were located, even as far away as London. It's great to have brothers and sisters to visit in nearly every city. I keep close tabs on our growing family as both a share holder and crazy late shopping sister who you have to kick out of your room to get some sleep at night. I did a simple visual DNA test today to confirm our genetic match while shopping at the Santa Monica location. Walking the aisles of Whole Foods I noticed our genetic building blocks are identical. I start my day with fresh produce of the season cherries, raspberries, and move through leafy greens to starchy grains and potatoes and yams. I intuitively swing through the natural body section for shower and shave products. Our closets are nearly identical, Simple Shoes and Threads For Thought. The family discounts always helps out on 365 products. It's undeniable that we are never apart for more than a day as I always forget something at your place, like a Preserve recycled toothbrush, sea salt, or soymilk. Think of sharing our birthdays together in Austin as a family reunion. I know you see me almost every day, but it's been a long time since I've been home and swam in Barton Springs or kayaked on Town Lake. Happy Birthday from your long lost sis!!
Marianne
Shops at the Scottsdale store in Scottsdale, AZ
What if I told you about a place where there was a profound sense of community and that community was committed to eco responsibility and sustainability and that at this particular place they happen to have the world's best desserts. Would you immediately ask me for directions wanting to check out this wonderful place for yourself? Would you be shocked if I told that incredible place was in fact a Whole Foods store? Whole Foods is more than just a store, for my younger sister and I it is a classroom. Julie and I can often be found strolling the aisles at our local Whole Foods. We chat animatedly and excitedly as we talk about the wonderful things we could create in the kitchen using the items found at Whole Foods. Our first stop is always at the bakery where we pick out a sweet treat to share, next we are off to the fish department to check out the latest sushi grade fish (we took a Sushi 101 class a Whole Foods Maine), then we wander up and down the aisles looking for items we've never heard of and learning about their origins and imagining what they must taste like. There is never a shortage of friendly employees to stop and talk with along the way giving both Julie and I a greater sense of community. Whole Foods has provided Julie with a place where she can ask questions and learn about the world around her. Whole Foods is that special place we go to--to bond, to laugh, to talk, and to learn. Happy 30th Birthday Whole Foods from two people who "heart" Whole Foods!
Melissa
Shops at the Roosevelt Square store in Seattle, WA
Originally from the great state of Texas, I love Whole Foods with the true heart of a Texan. Here is my story. My dad's heart exploded at the age of 42. Diabetes. I will be 42 in October. I had been on my way to also becoming a Diabetic. With lost limbs, health, and life in our family, the growing fear in my gut was more than intense. Well. I am happy to say that because of the expertise and absolute commitment to real, wholesome food, at Whole Foods, along with exercise and a great doctor, my blood sugar is now great. My energy level is remarkable and I have succeeded in losing over thirty pounds, in the last five months, comfortably and deliciously. I go to Whole Foods to shop for not just for food, but also for encouragement and information. You can find me there at least four times a week, shopping, or having a meal. I have become friends with several employees and I truly feel at home when I am there. This isn't all. The consistency and inspiration in these stores has given me the confidence to send my brother, a police officer in Austin, Texas, there to care for himself and family. The word is spreading in our family, and we feel lucky to spend our dollars where it will matter, not only for us, but the world. Our family is growing healthier and stronger, family member by family member, day-by-day, meal-by-meal. We love this store that knows the most important place is where we live. Our hearts and bodies. Thank you and Happy Birthday Whole Foods.
Merit
Shops at the Palo Alto store in Palo Alto, CA
You wont find anyone who loves Whole Foods more than I do. Trust me. I almost missed my cousin's wedding in Chicago two years ago because I got distracted at Whole Foods and the taxi driver got lost getting to the church. In every city I travel to, if there is a Whole Foods, I will find it. I can list off the ingredients, and the price, of just about every prepared food in the deli section. Just the prospect of walking into a Whole Foods makes me excited. I was born with Congenital Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency, which is a complicated way of saying that I cannot digest sugar. No brown sugar, no cane sugar, no processed food — only low-glycemic carbohydrates. Most fruits are out of the question. I can't even eat vegetables like beets and onions. Finding food is a problem and I used to hate eating because I was always sick and never satisfied. But Whole Foods has changed that. Your innovative concept of healthy prepared foods, the thorough labeling of each item, your push for gluten-free foods that has impacted the entire grocery store marketplace — all this has made my health struggles easier. And you have changed me, too. Your recipe offerings have inspired me to seek out creative ways to prepare the limited food I can eat. Your mission has raised my awareness of the importance of eating locally. I eat more slowly now. I take time to savor the flavors of the foods I prepare. Your influence extends far beyond the four walls of a grocery store. And that is why I love you.
Michael
Shops at the West Paces Ferry store in Atlanta, GA
I am writing on behalf of my wife and myself because our love for our neighborhood Whole Foods developed and continues to nourish our love for each other. I met my wife in October 2006. On our first date, I told her I went to college in Austin (UT) and her response was, "I love Austin and I love Whole Foods." For months thereafter, we shopped and ate at Whole Foods almost daily. In December 2006, we traveled to Austin for vacation. A highlight of our trip was shopping at the store on North Lamar. While shopping, I told her the story of Whole Foods' creation (as best I could remember), a story she says I have told her more than once. Two months later, I proposed marriage and when asked where we would like our engagement photos taken we said, "At home, in the park, and at Whole Foods!" Our photographer snapped shots of us going through the hot bar line and feeding each other in the seating areas. To this day, these photos remind us of our courtship and what we consider the birthplace of our union. Within the last two years we have re-tooled our diet to become pescetarians. We shop every Sunday at the Whole Foods on West Paces in Atlanta where we buy all of our organic fruits, vegetables, and dairy. We also enjoy the fish selections (both frozen and fresh). We live in a condo, not two blocks away and Stephanie works two blocks from the store at Ponce de Leon which is where we can be found when I come to visit her for lunch.
Mindy
Shops at the Academy store in Albuquerque, NM
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my pocketbook can reach, when feeling out of food. For the ends of hunger and 30 years of ideal selection. I love thee to the level of everyday's most important need, by fresh fruits and vegetables. I love thee freely, as employees strive for Right; I love thee purely, as you turn us to Organic. I love thee with the passion put to use in stocking gluten and dairy free foods, and with your unparalleled service. I love thee with a passionate love of your flagship store — a store like no other. I love thee with the breath, smiles, awesomeness, of all your aisles! And, if Whole Foods chooses, I shall but love thee even better when I win. My daughter attends school in Austin, and winning this trip not only will allow me a rare visit with her, but as she will tell you herself, will allow me to shop in my all time favorite store in the Whole Foods world!
Sadie
Shops at the Gateway store in Austin, TX
You're turning thirty? You're not worried about wrinkles, gray hair, finding Mr. or Ms. Right, your biological clock ticking away? Of course not, you've been eating well, living clean, and having a blast sharing your fantastic store to people around the world! From the bottom of my heart, deep in the heart of Austin, Texas, I wish y'all a Happy 30th Birthday. Thank you, Whole Foods, for being there 30 of my own 32 years, even though we didn't meet until I was in college. You came into my life as I was discovering myself, finding the inner vegetarian and health nut that had been aching to come out. You taught me to shop for exotic grains beyond wheat and rice; for fruits and veggies beyond apples, bananas, grapes, and green beans; for household cleaners that actually care about keeping me healthy. You help me support local farmers and merchants as well as taught me a bit about fair trade. You exposed me to being 'green' before I even knew what being 'green' meant. Your re-usable bags were in my trunk thanks to your awesome bag refund long before the rest of the country figured that one out. Thank you for being ahead of the curve. Thank you for caring for us and our Mother Earth. So thirty years, huh? Thanks for all of the wonderful years here in Austin. You are part of my family, part of my city's culture, and inspiration for a healthy life. Thirty years sure does look good on you!
Sarah
Shops at the Brighton store in Brighton, MA
In 30 years, Whole Foods has grown and changed. It's expanded, diversified, and broadened its horizons. I've done the same, and each step of the way, Whole Foods has been there and supported me. I'm strongly committed to a healthy lifestyle of organic and humane food, but I'm also strongly committed to a lifestyle of delicious, inventive and enjoyable eating. Whole Foods made it possible for these two tenets to come together — to eat ethically and humanely, and to do so with ease. Over the last 8 years, I've changed my diet as I became more knowledgeable and versed in the ethics of eating. I've gone from being an omnivore, to not eating red meat, to becoming a lacto/ovo vegetarian, and finally to eating vegan. Whole Foods supported each step along the way. As I become more restricted and inventive with my food choices, I've always been able to make changes with ease because I can easily get the ingredients and foods I need at my local Whole Foods. Whole Foods has also provided me with recipes along the way, and when I'm lacking the time I wish I had to cook, with healthy vegetarian and vegan prepared food options. I'll be turning 30 myself — not this year, but next. I intend to celebrate that birthday the healthiest I've ever been, thanks to Whole Foods.
Shawna
Shops at the Tanasbourne store in Hillsboro, OR
My husband is a professional chef and always makes the best dishes. Several years ago, he quit his job to take care of my mother (who had lung cancer). He spent 2 years caring for her until her passing a year ago. He revels in being creative and innovative in the kitchen. We shop at Whole Foods weekly to get the freshest produce, unique products, interesting seasonings, local cheeses, and fine wines. He enjoys going down every aisle and looking for ways to put unusual things together. He's one of those people who can taste something and tell you every ingredient, I just know whether I like it or not. Whole Foods has helped introduce us to some great items — like gluten free pretzels, buckwheat noodles, a variety of local melons, Greek honey yogurt, and frozen shallots. We can always count on whole foods to provide delicious and healthful foods. I hope to win this trip, because my husband is finally back being a chef again, doing what he loves, and I want to recognize and celebrate his sacrifice and devotion to our family — seriously, how many men do you know would take their mother-in-laws to bunko and then chemo.... He deserves a standing ovation and Whole Foods has been a part of keeping us healthy and happy — Thank you.