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July 22.2025
3 Minutes Read

We Never Closed: Western North Carolina is Open and Ready for Visitors

Vintage open sign in a Western North Carolina shop inviting visitors.

The Resilience of Western North Carolina: A Community United

September 2024 will forever mark a pivotal moment for Western North Carolina (WNC) as communities faced the wrath of Hurricane Helene. Striking as a Category 4 storm before weakening to a Category 2, the hurricane unleashed devastating flooding across WNC's mountainous landscape. Cities and towns like Hot Springs and Marshall endured extended outages of power and water, while areas such as Chimney Rock are still navigating the lengthy road to recovery. Yet, amid adversity, Western North Carolina has emerged with a resilience that deserves celebration.

Open for Business: Visiting WNC This Summer

As we look toward the summer ahead, it's heartening to see the phrase "We Never Closed" become synonymous with WNC. Despite the challenges brought by Hurricane Helene, the region has bounced back remarkably. Businesses have reopened, not always in their original locations but with renewed energy and community spirit. Asheville and the surrounding areas are thriving again, with new establishments sprouting up, offering hopeful travelers a chance to find interest in all that our beautiful region has to offer.

The Evidence: Why WNC is a Must-Visit Destination

WNC continues to gain national recognition, and it's easy to see why. Acknowledged by renowned outlets such as the New York Times and CNN as one of the top places to visit in 2025, the region showcases both scenic beauty and vibrant culture. This summer is a prime opportunity to explore Asheville's diverse culinary scene and explore unique local attractions. Though the path to recovery may be slow in some areas, the result is a destination motivated by community pride and an influx of support from visitors and residents alike.

Supporting the Community: Join Hands in Recovery Efforts

For those looking to lend a helping hand, there are countless ways to support the communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Volunteering, patronizing local businesses, or simply spreading the word about WNC’s resilience imbues hope and affirms our collective spirit. Residents banding together to assist one another exemplify the culture of caring that drives WNC forward, and there are ongoing initiatives aimed at uniting folks from across the nation. By supporting local businesses, you’re propelling recovery efforts and investing in the spirit of resilience.

Cultural Richness: Embracing the Unique Aspects of WNC

WNC is home to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, each thread carefully woven with the love and care of the people who call this region home. Aside from its picturesque landscapes, WNC represents an impressive collection of local artisans, musicians, and chefs dedicated to crafting authentic experiences. The local arts scene flourishes, and visitors are encouraged to witness how the storm has galvanized creativity, giving birth to projects and initiatives that reflect the collective spirit of perseverance.

Takeaway: Why WNC Deserves Your Attention

As Western North Carolina stands strong in its recovery, now is the time for travelers to consider visiting this remarkable region. The spirit of resilience intertwined with its natural beauty makes WNC a compelling destination to explore. Whether it's hiking the scenic trails, enjoying local cuisine, or mingling with community members at local markets, there is a world waiting to be discovered. In an era where connection and support matter more than ever, the mountains of WNC invite you to not only witness its beauty but to be part of its inspiring story.

Join us in embracing the spirit of resilience: Visit WNC, where we never closed!

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10.21.2025

Maximize Your Google Business Profile: Three Key Mistakes to Avoid

Update Understanding Google Business Profiles: Key Mistakes to Avoid In today's digital age, a well-optimized Google Business Profile can set your business apart, offering potential customers all vital information at a glance. However, many business owners fall into traps that can undermine their online presence. Let’s explore three critical mistakes you cannot afford to make when managing your Google Business Profile. 1. Neglecting Accurate Operating Hours One of the most common oversights occurs with operating hours. Incorrect or outdated hours can confuse potential customers, leading them to believe you’re closed when you’re actually open. This mistake can result in lost sales and disappointed clients. Always double-check and update your hours, especially for holidays or special events, to ensure that customers have the correct information. Consider using tools and reminders to review these hours regularly. Google makes it easy; simply search for your business, click on ‘Edit profile,’ and then navigate to the 'Hours' tab to make necessary changes. Keeping your hours updated not only aids customer experience but also enhances your business integrity. 2. Overlooking Product and Service Listings Your Google Business Profile allows you to list products and services, often a goldmine of opportunities for engagement. Failing to take advantage of this feature might mean missing out on potential customers who prefer to view specific offerings directly through search results. By listing services and corresponding details—from descriptions to pricing—you reduce the friction for customers to reach out to you for their needs. To optimize this feature, simply go to the ‘Edit Products’ section after searching your business on Google. Not only can you categorize your offerings, but you can also make sure that customers see what you specialize in without unnecessary delays. 3. Ignoring Customer Reviews Customer reviews play a critical role in influencing potential customers. Engaging with customer feedback—be it positive or negative—is crucial for building a trustworthy brand. Neglecting this aspect can harm your reputation over time. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and ensure you respond to them. Thank positive reviewers and address any concerns in the negative feedback; this communication shows potential clients that you value customer input and are committed to their satisfaction. Regular interaction with your Google Business Profile not only enhances satisfaction but also boosts your visibility in search results. Remember, responding to reviews is a proactive step towards maintaining a positive online reputation. Future-Proofing Your Online Presence Building and maintaining a robust Google Business Profile is an essential component of digital marketing strategies for any business. As online searches for local services continue to rise, making informed updates and engaging with customers on platforms like Google is key to staying competitive. Future-proof your online presence by routinely reviewing performance metrics available through Google Business Profile Insights. These insights provide data on customer interactions, visibility, and even which search terms led users to your profile. In summary, correctly managing your Google Business Profile—from accurately reflecting operating hours to actively engaging with customer reviews—can drive customer engagement and improve your business's online visibility. Explore these elements, and don't miss out on valuable opportunities to connect with local customers. Stay Proactive With Your Business Profile The digital landscape continues to evolve, and so should your business's online presence. Take the necessary steps to optimize your Google Business Profile, avoiding the common pitfalls discussed above. Regular updates and customer engagement can transform your business into a market leader in your community. Take action today—check your profile for the common mistakes we've highlighted and start optimizing for better customer engagement and satisfaction.

10.21.2025

Why Almost 6,000 Sellers Have Slashed Asking Price in the Last Month

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Discover How HOA Management Can Boost Your Property Value

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