Asheville Residents Embrace the Reopening of Grove Arcade
On October 16, Asheville, N.C., celebrated a significant milestone as the Grove Arcade officially reopened its doors, just three weeks after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. The reopening has brought a breath of fresh air to the community as local merchants and displaced artists are beginning to find their footing once again.
A Warm Welcome Back
The Grove Arcade has a storied history in downtown Asheville, and the reopening was met with smiles and excitement from both merchants and visitors. Many of the shops inside the arcade, including the beloved Asheville North Carolina Home Crafts Store, have been eagerly awaiting this moment. Having been part of the arcade for the last 22 years, the store’s co-owner, Judy Quinn, expressed her joy in welcoming customers back.
“Walk back in and open and see some people and actually answer the phone — the phones are working too,” said Quinn, beaming with pride at the chance to reconnect with the community. It’s these small, everyday interactions that often make the most significant difference.
Support for Displaced Artists
In addition to welcoming back customers, the arcade has also taken initiative to support displaced artists from WEDGE Studio and Marquee. In the coming weeks, these artists will find temporary homes within the Grove Arcade, showcasing their talents and creativity while the community continues to heal and recover from the aftermath of Helene.
This blend of commerce and artistry embodies the spirit of Asheville, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and strong sense of community.
Encouraging Local Support
While the reopening is a step in the right direction, many local merchants, including Quinn and her co-owner, Marie Hendrix, have noticed that the foot traffic is not quite at the levels they typically see during the fall season, which is usually bustling with business.
“Fall is typically the shop’s busiest time of year, but so far we haven’t seen a lot of traffic,” Quinn noted. This is where the residents of Asheville can step in. Both owners are reaching out to the community, encouraging locals to shop at the arcade to support their beloved businesses.
“Bring your knitting, come sit in the hallway chit chat with us,” said Hendrix, fostering a warm invitation to the community. The goal is to bring people together, even if it’s just to enjoy each other’s company while navigating these tumultuous times.
How to Help
For those who want to support Grove Arcade merchants from the comfort of their homes, a virtual support option is available. The arcade has set up a way for individuals to purchase merchandise and gift cards online. This allows people to contribute to the recovery efforts without the need to step outside, making it easier to help local businesses during this challenging period.
Operating Hours
The Asheville North Carolina Home Crafts Store welcomes visitors every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. So whether you are looking to pick up a unique handmade gift or just want to chat with the friendly owners, this is a perfect opportunity to reconnect with the heart of Asheville.
Conclusion
The reopening of the Grove Arcade is not just about business; it’s a symbol of resilience in the face of hardship. As the community rallies together, supporting local artists and merchants alike, the true spirit of Asheville continues to shine. Whether through shopping locally or simply visiting to share a moment, every little bit helps. Let us all do our part to ensure that the vibrant culture of Asheville remains strong!
