Following several months of permitting and construction delays, I Love Juice Bar will open Friday at The Pointe at Barclay.

Local franchise owners Stephannie Perrin and Blake Jensen, longtime friends and co-workers, said they were looking for an opportunity to start a business that would promote healthy living. 

“We’re excited to open this juice bar because it combines our own passion for healthy living with our desire to show that healthy food can also taste great,” Perrin said. 

Perrin said they selected The Pointe based upon its accessibility to their target market.

“We want to help educate the Wilmington community about the benefits of plant-based nutrition while creating a fun, welcoming environment in the growing midtown area.”

When researching franchise options, Perrin said she had her sights set on a menu that would provide plenty of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.

“I selfishly wanted a menu that contained things I would not only be able to eat, but excited to eat,” Perrin said. 

After learning about I Love Juice Bar, Perrin and Jensen traveled to Nashville, I Love Juice Bar's home base, for the company’s Discovery Day and to meet with founders Vui and John Hunt. Perrin said it was such a positive experience that she and Jensen knew this was the right company for them to invest in.

I Love Juice Bar specializes in plant-based juices, smoothies and meals, made with organic produce whenever possible. Juices are made with whole fruits and vegetables using a centrifugal juicer. Because the juices are not cold pressed, they are intended to be consumed the same day they are made, to ensure freshness and nutrient density.

All smoothies are made to order in two sizes, with the option of over 15 mix-ins such as local bee pollen, organic matcha powder, and organic plant-based, soy-free protein powder. There are also power shots, monster shots and essential oil shots in various sizes.

As for food, I Love Juice Bar offers smoothie bowls, a kale quinoa bowl, a pad Thai noodle bowl, spring rolls and gluten-free sandwiches, as well as seasonal soups and overnight oats. 

I Love Juice Bar will celebrate its grand opening Saturday at 1407 Barclay Pointe Blvd., Unit 405, with samples, giveaways and live music from 2 to 4 p.m. 

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