Shop local this Christmas season to support our hardworking communities in Rutherford County. Now, more than ever, our businesses cherish your support as we rebuild and revitalize areas devastated by Hurricane Helene. Many beloved small shops and businesses have reopened their doors to customers and neighbors alike. Whether you’re on the lookout for the perfect Christmas gift or shopping on Small Business Saturday, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to support and shop local in Rutherford County.
Forest City
Forest City boasts Southern charm throughout its historic downtown area. Stroll along Main Street and beyond for modern boutiques, nostalgic antiques, and mom-and-pop eateries that each offer something unique. At Utopia, you’ll find a variety of delightful seasonal gifts, while Kay’s Antiques & Collectables is the perfect playground for treasure hunters searching for their next vintage find. The Man Cave is brimming with one-of-a-kind gifts created by local artists, while The Carolina Pearl Boutique sells creative T-shirts. There are so many fantastic discoveries at the shops in Forest City!
Rutherfordton
Shop small businesses in Rutherfordton, where you’ll find an exciting array of toys, games, and vintage apparel. Hobbyists and gamers alike can immerse themselves in a world of fun at Infinity Games and Toys, and music enthusiasts can purchase stunning handmade string instruments at Beard Instruments. Blushed & Bashful Children’s Boutique offers colorful seasonal wear for kids, while Chestnut Forge and Furniture offers creative decorative items for the home made from wood, steel, and other materials. But there’s so much more to explore. Wander through town to find your favorite spot as you shop local this Christmas.
Lake Lure
In Lake Lure, you’ll find charming businesses like Lake Lure Pottery, a handmade pottery company selling creations inspired by faith, nature, animals, and joy in life. Lil’s Thrift Shop is a nonprofit organization supporting animal care, where any purchase you make goes towards animals in need in the area. At 2 Curios Antiques, Collectables & Decorative Arts, you’ll find a wide variety of antiques to take home.
While parts of Lake Lure are recovering from Hurricane Helene, many of their shops and businesses are open and ready to welcome shoppers. Just check their websites for opening hours before visiting, or shop your favorite stores online to continue to support local businesses.
Shop Local and Support Our Communities
Shop WNC is a new resource created by impacted Western North Carolina (WNC) counties to help support local communities and small businesses that have experienced loss from Hurricane Helene. On the website, you’ll find a variety of online stores, restaurants, and art galleries that you can support in-person or online during this difficult time. Chimney Rock, for instance, is one of Rutherford County’s most devastated communities. As many area businesses remain closed during construction and rebuilding, Tryon Equestrian Center is giving a home to local retail shops for pop-up stores at the center.
However you choose to support, we thank you for your continued business this holiday season.
