In today’s fast-paced world, shopping can be as quick as the speed of light through fiber optic internet cables. But while online shopping is designed for convenience, “offline shopping” is still your best bet for discovering quality, one-of-a-kind gifts.
From ceramics to foodstuffs to that necklace you noticed caught her eye, artisans across Western North Carolina have many fine items for sale this holiday season. Plus, you can be confident that an extra 50% of the dollars you spend will stay in the local economy.
Feel great supporting local businesses while crossing unique gift items off your holiday shopping lists! Here are seven local shops where you can give a little and get a little when you shop local.
Duncan & York Modern Market
Duncan & York Modern Market believes gift giving doesn’t have to be a snooze fest. The shop offers local and handmade gifts, as well as your favorite items from around the world. Check out their wide selection of gorgeous cards for every occasion, candles and home fragrances, jewelry, bath and body supplies, books, mugs, notebooks and prints, gifts for kids, manly finds, delicious treats, shirts and knitwear, wall art, office wares, and much more.
33 N Lexington Avenue, Asheville | (828) 575-2441
4 S Tunnel Road, Asheville | (828) 575-2950
Herbiary AVL
Good for humans isn’t always good enough. At Herbiary, they hand pick products that are good for you—and good for the planet. Located on North Market Street in downtown, here you’ll find herbs, books, oils, and all kind of plant-based products. Aficionados and collectors, not to mention healers, consider Herbiary’s essential oils their best-kept secret. No wonder it’s one of our favorite local stores to get lost in.
29 N Market St. #106, Asheville | (828) 552-3334 | herbiary.com
Homestead Linens & Gifts
Carrying on the tradition of family-owned businesses, Homestead proudly occupies the historic building of the Brown/Osteen grocery. Since opening in 2001, Homestead has established itself as the “go to” boutique for gifts and linens. Step in, inhale, and awaken your senses. Homestead is a calming escape from your fast paced life, whose products are functional and fashionable. Gorgeous gifts are a trademark at Homestead. You can find something perfect for all occasions.
110 N Main Street, Hendersonville | (828) 697-8787 | homesteadfinelinens.com
J. Gabriel Home and Gifts
J. Gabriel is a home and gift store located in the heart of Downtown Waynesville. Visit them for a unique selection of gifts, clothing, jewelry and handbags, home accessories, local art, and more. Looking for holiday home decor or the perfect Secret Santa gift? Now’s the time to stop in and take a look around! While you’re there, you can be confident you never have to compromise for quality of service or of your purchase. J. Gabriel offers guaranteed reliability.
62 N Main Street, Waynesville | (828) 246-9876 | jgabrielgifts.com
Kress Emporium
Western North Carolina is full of amazing local art! While the price of original local art and jewelry can vary widely, it’s easy to find some really incredible pieces for any budget. One location known for offering wide-ranging “objects of beauty” is Kress Emporium. Their downtown Asheville storefront showcases the work of over 80 regional artists and craftspeople, along with a wide selection of fine antiques and collectibles. Bonus: the historic Kress Building was built in 1928 and still features much of its original ceramic tile and neoclassical motifs.
19 Patton Avenue, Asheville | (828) 281-2252 | thekressemporium.com
Sunburst Market
Sunburst Market was founded in 2011 by Waynesville native Katie Eason Hughes. Joined by her husband Chef Clay Hughes (Blackberry Farms, Canyon Kitchen) and their very helpful son, Henry, the Sunburst Market family is proud to be carrying on the four-generations-long family tradition of supplying the hungry people of Western North Carolina with delicious, sustainably and locally produced products. While you’re there, visit the Apothecary, which is stocked with local and non-local candles, soaps, lotions, household cleaning supplies, and more.
314 Industrial Park Drive, Waynesville | (828) 452-3848 | facebook.com/pg/SunburstMarket
White Squirrel Shoppe
Looking for a few of the famed 1,600 white squirrels of Brevard? We found them! White Squirrel Shoppe is a souvenir boutique specializing in white squirrel treasures of all kinds. They also carry a line of women’s clothing and feature great garden and novelty items. Find something for everyone on your shopping list. For over 30 years, the White Squirrel Shoppe has been located on Brevard’s historic Main Street in the McMinn Building, built in 1899.
6 W Main Street, Brevard | (828) 877-3530 | whitesquirrelshoppe.com
