Trophies Unlimited
Crafting Recognition. Engraving Memories.
Our Story
Since 1977, Trophies Unlimited has been a family-owned business dedicated to crafting quality awards. What started as a backyard passion for founder Barry H. Johnson evolved into a thriving enterprise. In 1979, Barry purchased his first official shop, a converted gas station, and began building a legacy rooted in hard work and community. Today, that legacy continues with his son Mike Johnson and Mike’s mother, who proudly carry on the family tradition of excellence and service.
Mr. Michael Johnson
Small Business Award
Born in 1973, Mike is a native born Aikenite. His family spent a short time in N. Carolina but returned to Aiken in 1976 where Mike grew up, until he graduated Aiken High School in 1992.
After graduating Aiken High, Mike moved to Myrtle Beach, where he attended Horry Georgetown Technical College. Mike earned two degrees. First in Criminal Justice, and a second in Paralegal. He also spent his summers as an ocean lifeguard and eventually opened a branch of Trophies Unlimited there. Like his father, Mike would go out for business. He joined the Chamber, and networked with BNI. Mike would also walk Ocean Boulevard, where most hotels were located, and cold call upon them for the opportunity to work for them by providing signage, name badges or employee recognition.
It was in 1977 when his father, Barry Johnson, started Trophies Unlimited in his father’s shed, in the back yard. In 1980, Barry bought T-Bo’s convenient store, which is their current location.
In March 2003, Mike’s father passed away from Multi Myloma, a type of bone marrow cancer. The business was offered to Mike, but his interest was still Myrtle Beach and his daughter, Madison, who was 3 years old at the time. Mike soon lost interest in the business due to loss of motivation after his fathers passing. Shortly after, Mike went to work for Time Warner Cable, which was a great move. Time Warner had a benefit package and a retirement plan. However, God had a different plan.
Mike was in a motorcycle accident in 2008, which forced him back to Aiken. While he was recovering from his accident he saw where he could help his mother and the business. In 2010, he took over as CEO, which in layman’s terms means, The Fixer.
Mike is a member of Aiken Masonic Lodge 156. He also spent 22 years as a football Referee for the South Carolina High School League.
Our Story
Awards, Engraving & More
We go beyond traditional trophies. From plaques, banners, and signage to precision engraving, our work is designed to celebrate life’s most important moments. Our in-house engraving services also extend to custom firearm engraving, including NFA Trust and ATF-compliant deep etch and laser engraving—completed by seasoned professionals with more than 15 years of expertise.
What We Do
Since 1977, Trophies Unlimited has been a family-owned business dedicated to crafting quality awards. What started as a backyard passion for founder Barry H. Johnson evolved into a thriving enterprise.
In 1979, Barry purchased his first official shop, a converted gas station, and began building a legacy rooted in hard work and community. Today, that legacy continues with his son Mike Johnson and Mike’s mother, who proudly carry on the family tradition of excellence and service.
Our Commitment
Dedicated to Community & Craftsmanship
For more than 45 years, we’ve been more than just a trophy shop—we’ve been a partner in recognizing success across Aiken and the CSRA. From local schools and universities to civic organizations and businesses, our commitment is to deliver products that inspire pride, celebrate excellence, and bring communities together.
Why Choose Us
Expertise: With over 45 years of experience, we deliver exceptional craftsmanship on every project.
On-Site Service: Get your gun engraving done right here, often with same-day service.
Community Focused: We're a proud local business dedicated to serving our community, from sports teams to government agencies.
Our Partners
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