Last updated September 30, 2026.
The Raleigh Local is an independent, one-person local media brand. Readers trust it because every recommendation is something I would tell a friend. This page explains how that trust is protected: how I choose what to feature, how paid work is handled, and how to reach me if I get something wrong.
How I choose what to feature
I visit the places I write about. I eat there, walk it, buy the ticket, talk to the owner. If a place shows up on this site, it is because I think it is worth your time, not because someone sent a press release. I turn down features that do not fit, and I do not cover crime, real estate marketing or political campaigns.
Sponsored content
Some features are paid for by the business or organization they cover, including Event Spotlights, Shop Small Spotlights, newsletter sponsorships and custom partnerships. Paid features are always labeled as sponsored, partner or paid on the post, Reel, Story or newsletter placement. I write every sponsored feature in my own voice and I keep editorial control over the words; sponsors review facts, not opinions. If a sponsor is not a fit after review, the booking is refunded. Details are on the Partnerships page.
Affiliate links
Some links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them, at no extra cost to you. I only link products and services I would recommend anyway. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Gifted meals, tickets and products
Occasionally a business offers a complimentary meal, ticket or product. Accepting it never guarantees coverage or a positive mention, and when a gifted item appears in a post I say so.
Accuracy and corrections
Hours, prices and dates change. I verify details against the organizer’s or business’s own sources before publishing, and I update evergreen guides on a schedule, but things slip. If you spot an error, email hello@theraleighlocal.com and I will fix it promptly and note the correction where it matters.
Photos
Photos are my own, supplied by the business or organization featured, or licensed stock photos credited to the photographer where the license requires it.
Privacy
How this site handles your data is covered in the Privacy Policy. The newsletter is run through beehiiv and you can unsubscribe with one click at any time.
Contact
Questions about any of this: hello@theraleighlocal.com.