Support Local Asheville Businesses This Holiday Season

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (FOX Carolina) – Before you take out your wallet to indulge in Black Friday shopping extravaganzas, it’s crucial to consider directing your financial support toward small businesses that have been significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene. This weekend, local shops in Asheville are enthusiastically inviting shoppers to step inside and experience a special initiative aimed at revitalizing the community.

The Struggles Faced by Local Businesses

“It’s been a hard couple of months; it’s been scary,” expressed Lindsay Woodruff, owner of the popular boutique Duncan and York. Woodruff sadly shared that her business was forced to close its doors for almost an entire month following the devastation brought on by Helene in Western North Carolina.

“It was a terrifying experience; it was not the Asheville I was used to,” she recounted, reflecting on the uncertain atmosphere that enveloped the city. Her story is not unique; many local establishments suffered the consequences of this natural disaster, resulting in a substantial loss of revenue and a drastic decline in customer foot traffic.

The Need for Community Support

According to Hayden Plemmons, the executive director of the Asheville Downtown Association, it’s crucial that residents and visitors rally to support local businesses through this holiday season and into the winter months. “We need to ensure these businesses are still here when spring and summer roll around next year,” Plemmons emphasized. This is not merely an act of charity; it is a necessary endeavor to preserve the unique character and diversity of Asheville’s shopping landscape.

Kicking Off Small Business Weekend

Plemmons further highlighted that local stores are eager to attract tourism back and are prepared to do so by participating in the city’s Small Business Weekend initiative. “We’re super excited to launch a program in partnership with Bank of America, entitled ‘Shop Small, Win Big,’” Plemmons stated. This program invites North Carolina residents to shop at participating Asheville stores, allowing them to upload their receipts to a promotional portal for a chance to win $500 for themselves and the business they made a purchase from. To participate, shoppers can find the QR code for submission available nearby.

The Importance of Buying Small

When you choose to shop locally, you are not just assisting businesses hit by the hurricane; you are also promoting the talents and craftsmanship of Asheville makers. “We place significant emphasis on Asheville producers, focusing on products that are created right here in our community,” Woodruff elaborated, showcasing a commitment to supporting local artisans and craftspeople.

Unique Offerings at Duncan and York

Duncan and York stands out as an eclectic gift shop that provides a variety of items ranging from unique souvenirs to stylish clothing and exquisite jewelry. “This is SoulKu; it’s an Asheville-based company that employs stay-at-home moms to craft the jewelry,” Woodruff explained as she gestured to a charming display. One special piece of jewelry, from SoulKu, honors those affected by Helene, reflecting a profound connection to the community.

For the dedicated Swifties out there, Woodruff proudly declared, “We’re the store for you.” The shop even features an entire wall adorned with Taylor Swift-themed gifts. This highlights how Duncan and York caters to diverse interests and fandoms, providing something for everyone.

A Unique Asheville Experience

“There is nothing in Downtown Asheville that you can’t find,” Plemmons confidently asserted. Asheville boasts a remarkable collection of small businesses where shoppers can discover products that are distinctly different from what you would find in a conventional big box store or when shopping online. “You’re getting a curated collection of products,” Woodruff echoed, emphasizing the value of supporting local enterprises.

Community Events to Foster Engagement

In addition to supporting small businesses through shopping, the Downtown Association is collaborating with the Grove Arcade to host a festive Tree Lighting Block Party this Saturday from 4 to 9 p.m. This event promises to bring the community together and celebrate the resilience of local businesses and the spirit of Asheville.

AI legalese decoder: Your Tool for Understanding Local Business Support

In light of the challenges faced by local businesses due to natural disasters and economic fluctuations, understanding the implications of various community initiatives and legal frameworks can be daunting. This is where the AI legalese decoder comes into play. By simplifying complex legal jargon and making it more accessible, this tool can help business owners and consumers alike comprehend the specifics of support programs, legal protections, and community regulations. This enables a more informed decision-making process when engaging with and supporting local businesses during times of recovery and beyond.

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