NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Asheville, a town renowned for its artists and dining scene, serves as a popular tourist destination and the economic center for the Blue Ridge Mountain communities in North Carolina. In September, it faced severe flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The aftermath of the disaster left businesses without power and water for weeks, resulting in a significant decline in tourism during the peak season. In an effort to expedite recovery, local artists and small businesses in Asheville are now promoting their handcrafted products online as holiday gifts, hoping to entice visitors to return.
The River Arts District, which suffered extensive damage, is allowing artists to sell their creations directly through its website. Additionally, Explore Asheville, the tourism authority, has launched a platform called “Love Asheville from Afar” to support remote purchases.
Despite some uncertainty surrounding travel to Asheville, Katie Button, chef at Curate Bar de Tapas and La Bodega by Curate, encourages visitors to come and support the city’s businesses. While La Bodega remains closed due to decreased foot traffic, there are numerous online offerings available for purchase to assist the city’s recovery efforts.
For those with a penchant for food, consider supporting Curate’s authentic Spanish tapas restaurant by purchasing handmade ceramic pigs crafted by local artist Lori Theriault. French Broad Chocolate, known for its confections, offers a range of delectable treats online, including bonbons and peppermint bark. Similarly, Asheville Tea Company provides gift boxes featuring their tea blends, which can be pre-ordered to help rebuild their business. Poppy Hand-Crafted Popcorn, famous for its unique flavors, offers the “Asheville Mix Artist Bag,” with proceeds contributing to the restoration of local entrepreneurs.
For art enthusiasts, Asheville’s River Arts District, home to over 700 local artists, was significantly impacted by the flooding. Although some studios have reopened, many spaces require extensive rebuilding. Supporting these artists by purchasing their works online can aid in their recovery process and help preserve Asheville’s vibrant art scene.
Moonlight Makers, a budding business born out of friendship, is making waves in Asheville with its unique line of locally-themed products. The company’s inception can be traced back to the serendipitous neighborly encounter between Claire Watson and Nicole Hairfield, two moms whose friendship blossomed as their children played together. What started as casual hangouts soon evolved into a creative partnership, with the duo seizing the opportunity to turn their shared passion into a profitable venture.
Currently, Moonlight Makers is making a name for itself by offering a range of Asheville-inspired products, from scented candles to trendy T-shirts. What sets them apart is their commitment to giving back to the community – an admirable gesture that sees 100% of their profits being channeled into local hurricane relief efforts. This philanthropic approach has not only endeared them to customers but also underscored their deep-rooted connection to the community they serve.
Behind the scenes, Moonlight Makers operates with a dedicated team of 10 individuals who bring each design to life through meticulous screen-printing techniques. Every product is imbued with the essence of Asheville, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the city and capturing the imagination of locals and visitors alike. With a focus on quality and creativity, Moonlight Makers is carving out a niche for itself in the competitive world of retail, offering customers a chance to own a piece of Asheville’s charm.
For those looking for more gift ideas and a taste of Asheville’s unique offerings, the “Love Asheville from Afar” website, spearheaded by the local tourism development authority Explore Asheville, serves as a virtual gateway to the city’s treasures. Whether you’re a resident missing the sights and sounds of Asheville or a visitor eager to bring home a piece of its magic, this online platform provides a curated selection of products and experiences that embody the essence of this vibrant community.
In a world where commerce often feels impersonal, Moonlight Makers stands out as a beacon of authenticity and goodwill. Through their innovative products and unwavering commitment to social responsibility, Claire and Nicole have not only created a successful business but also a platform for positive change in their community. As their journey continues to unfold, one thing remains clear – Moonlight Makers is more than just a brand; it’s a testament to the power of friendship, creativity, and giving back.
