A Gift Guide to Shopping in an Effort to Support Small Businesses and Cure Your Sadness with Capitalism

Let’s be honest: the holidays can be a lot. The stress, the crowds, the never-ending to-do lists—all of it can feel overwhelming. Add the lingering impacts of Hurricane Helene, which devastated much of Asheville and Western North Carolina, and you’ve got a community that’s still struggling to get back on its feet. Many of our local businesses are operating with less—fewer resources, tighter budgets, and staff stretched thin. This year, shopping small isn’t just about crossing names off your list; it’s about supporting neighbors who are doing everything they can to keep their doors open.

While we all love a little retail therapy, let’s make it count this year. And while you’re at it, let’s agree to make this holiday season one filled with patience, kindness, and a commitment to uplifting our local businesses and the hardworking people behind them.

Here’s your guide to shopping small, giving back, and keeping the holiday spirit alive in Asheville—even if capitalism feels like the grinch.

1. Remember the Golden Rule: Be Kind

The holidays are tough for everyone, but for small business owners and workers, they can be downright exhausting. Now, with the added strain of recovering from Hurricane Helene, many businesses are dealing with tighter inventories, supply chain delays, and reduced staff capacity.

When shopping, keep these things in mind:

• Patience is key: If a shop is busy or short-staffed, take a deep breath and remember these folks are doing their best.

• Be understanding: Items might take longer to restock, or prices might be slightly higher due to supply chain issues.

• Show gratitude: A kind word or a “thank you” goes a long way.

Let’s not forget that the people behind the counters are neighbors, friends, and community members. A little grace can make their day better—and yours too.

2. Shop Small, Shop Local

When you shop at Asheville’s small businesses, you’re directly investing in our community and helping to rebuild after Hurricane Helene. Here are a few must-visit spots:

• Horse + HeroThis downtown gallery and shop showcases local art, prints, and gifts that capture Asheville’s creative spirit. Perfect for unique, handmade presents.

• East Fork PotteryKnown for its modern, functional ceramics, East Fork has become an Asheville icon. Their pieces make elegant gifts and help support a team that deeply values sustainability and craftsmanship.

• Malaprop’s Bookstore/CaféCozy up with a good read from Asheville’s beloved indie bookstore. From literary bestsellers to local authors, you’ll find a thoughtful gift for any book lover.
  

3. Gifts That Give Back

Several local businesses are taking part in initiatives to support those most impacted by Hurricane Helene. When you shop here, your dollars do double duty:

• Asheville Guide’s Bite Me ‘ZineThis collaborative cookbook supports out-of-work hospitality workers affected by the storm. Grab a copy and help someone in need while collecting recipes from Asheville’s top culinary talent.

• Noir Collective AVLSupport this Black-owned boutique that doubles as a creative community hub. They’re currently raising funds to offer free art and meditation workshops to help locals decompress after the storm.
  

4. Food and Drink Gifts That Feed the Soul

Nothing says holiday cheer like good food and drink. Asheville’s food scene is world-renowned, and many small businesses could use your support as they recover.

• SpicewallaElevate your gift-giving with gourmet spice sets, perfect for the home chef in your life.

• French Broad ChocolatesChocolate that tastes like magic and supports a local gem? Yes, please. Pick up a box (or five) of their artisan truffles.

• WNC Farmers MarketShop for fresh, local goods like honey, jams, and handmade crafts while directly supporting local farmers and makers.
  

5. Show Up for Events and Pop-Ups

Keep an eye out for holiday markets and pop-ups featuring local vendors. These events are a great way to discover new businesses and meet the makers behind your favorite products.

• Old Fort Strong Endurance FestivalWhile focused on resilience, the festival has grown into a community hub for local businesses to showcase their goods and connect with customers.

• Winter Market at The RADHeld in the River Arts District, this market highlights Asheville’s incredible art scene and is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
  

6. Give More Than Gifts—Give Grace

This holiday season, let’s remember that we’re all navigating tough times. Hurricane Helene tested the resilience of Asheville’s businesses and people, but we’re still here—together. Supporting local businesses is a powerful way to help our community recover, and doing it with kindness and patience is the cherry on top.

So, as you shop this year, let your purchases reflect your values. Choose local. Choose connection. And most of all, choose to spread a little joy wherever you go. Asheville’s small businesses—and your heart—will thank you.