Asheville's Biltmore Property Group Purchases Two Shopping Centers in Knoxville TN

Knoxville, TN – The Biltmore Property Group, LLC (BPG) which is based in Asheville North Carolina recently announced 2 new fine acquisitions to add to their real estate portfolio. The Shops at Western Plaza which features the Fresh Market, CVS, Jos. A. Bank, Tuesday Morning and many others.

These local real estate investors also purchased a property called Melrose Place, an upscale shopping center in Knoxville. Talbots, M.S. McClellan, and Sherwin Williams Decorating Center all occupy part of this space.

Add this to their grand real estate portfolio in Asheville, and the Biltmore Property Group is one of the most aggressive commercial real estate companies in the area. Wait until you hear what is coming next!!

Knoxville, getting more are more closely associated with the growth in the Asheville and WNC region, is now becoming a hotspot for investors and entrepreneurs alike. Some say it is a hop, skip and a jump over the mountains, and you are there! From the Blue Ridge to the Great Smokies!

Oh, if you are interested in leasing information, please contact Curtis Williams with BPG at (828) 450-4253 or cwilliams@biltmorepropertygroup.com.

Need to speak with the property management and get some info? Please contact Morgan Bromley with BPG at (865) 279-0670 or mbromley@biltmorepropertygroup.com.

Lounging at the Battery Park Book Exchange and Wine Bar in Asheville

We have been to the Battery Park Book Exchange and Wine Bar in downtown Asheville several times. I have to say that every time we have been here, it was a hit. The atmosphere is wonderful, the walls and isles are lined with books and art, there was live music playing in the background while I was there, people having great conversation at the bar, delicious wine selection, yummy desserts, and so many little places and corners that you can surely find a spot to fall in love with. This is Asheville's ultimate lounge. While sitting there and enjoying the hum, I looked up and saw this Moose head above. It made me smile so I took a photo of it.

FTW Burlesque in Biltmore Village Asheville

The funky and freaky arts and entertainment scene is not something that you are going to regularly find on your tourism map. We stopped by the Toy Boat Community Art Space in Biltmore Village last night and happened into a burlesque show featuring the new troop, FTW Burlesque. Toy Boat features shows of this magnitude several times a year. They also do some amazing entertainment including juggling, hula-hooping, musical and many other types of shows and classes for the people of Asheville.

Merry Christmas in Biltmore Village, Asheville NC

The holidays and cheer are here in Asheville and Western North Carolina as many communities are lighting up trees, having celebrations, and getting ready to bring in 2014. Wow! Time has flown by so quickly this year. Here is a photo of a friend from Doubletree Hotel at the Christmas Tree Lighting event in Biltmore Village. She even had some of those delicious cookies with her! SO YUM!!!

Travelocity and the Roaming Gnome in Asheville

On behalf of Travelocity, the Roaming Gnome recently traveled to Asheville and Western North Carolina to experience the great things the area had to offer. Everything from an Architect's tour at the Biltmore Estate, to a Beer scavenger hunt at the local breweries. This little man was pretty much down for anything. We are glad he stopped by Asheville and look forward to his return! See the blog recap about the Roaming Gnome Visiting Asheville.

NYC Makeup Artist Yuko Takahashi Visits Asheville

The team was very excited to get a chance to meet famous makeup Artist Yuko Takahashi recently in the west Asheville / Leicester area, at a multi-cultural hair salon owned by Lety Onate. Some of Yuko's most recent projects included doing the makeup for a Rolex campaign. Yuko moved from Japan to New York City years ago and has made this world so much more beautiful with her wonderful makeup art and talent.

Almost Leaf Season on the Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville NC

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the main attractions, or better yet experiences of Western North Carolina. Such a gorgeous ride through the mountains just about any time of the year; but especially during Fall. Leaf Season is followed closely by droves of Leaf Watchers. Photographers from all around the world come to Asheville during this time of the year to see all of the colorful leaves that line the roads and parkways. The landscapes are waves of incredible colors. This photo was taken yesterday, so they are just about to change colors. These next few weeks are vital for Leafinators! Then visit the Biltmore Estate, and plan a half day tour of Historic Biltmore Village. Bring your camera and get ready to make beautiful memories in these mountains!!

The "Moving to Asheville" Checklist

Moving to Asheville, or anywhere for that matter, is when you want to make sure you have some things in order. You want to have the right people and connections, or at least have direction on where to find them. Even though southern hospitality rules this neck of the woods, people can get lost in the shuffle and feel like strangers for a long time. There is no need for this! There are so many groups and micro communities in Western North Carolina, that there is a place for anyone and everyone.

When our family first entertained the thought of moving to Asheville, we were happy it was "in the middle" of the East Coast. Same distance from NYC as it is to Florida, so we could live in paradise, and also have the best of those two other worlds. We purchased some property in the mountains of Weaverville, and lived the "semi-secluded" life for a few years. Then we moved to North Asheville.

Here is a Checklist of items you may want to consider when moving to Asheville and Western North Carolina:

1. Asheville Real Estate

• Are you looking to purchase a home, or a piece of property, or just rent for the time being? Do you need some information about the area, the school district, restaurants, shopping etc? An Asheville Real Estate Agent can assist you with this.

2. Asheville Insurance

• Making sure you have the proper Insurance policy in place for the moving, your new home, rental insurance, and your automobiles. You want to make sure you are covered all across the board, and that your are properly insured. An Asheville Insurance Agent can help you with this.

3. Asheville Automotive

• Finding an Auto Mechanic in a new town is not that easy. All of us know people that have been around the block a few times with their Auto Repair Shop. When moving to the area, make sure you have an Asheville Automobile Mechanic like Jimmy that you can get to know and trust.
• Looking for a New Car connection in the area? Rob Smith from Anderson Nissan can help.
• Used Cars? See Appalachian Motors in Enka Candler NC, and also opening up a new shop in south Asheville.

4. Asheville Jobs

• Finding Employment in the Asheville area is important for you, your family and the whole community. Finding a place to work, or the funding and resources to open a business is vital to growing us as a whole. You can see the NC Employment Security Commission for some great opportunities. RelyLocal Asheville and AshevilleJobs.com also have job listings on their website.

5. Asheville Friends

• Some people have friends in the area already, while others may not know too many people. There is everything from an Asheville Mommies network to an American Outlaws fan club.

6. Asheville Faith

• The are many faith based groups and congregations represented in the area. You can find this in action at The Asheville JCC - Jewish Community Center, The Basilica of St. Lawrence. North Asheville Baptist Church, Seacost Church, The Rock of Asheville, Jubilee and Missio Dei Church. These are just a few of the places doing great works in the City.

7. Asheville Health

• Chiropractor - There are many choices in the Asheville area. We use One Love Chiropractic. They may come in handy especially after a big move; your back hurting, neck pain etc. Packing and moving boxes is a pain in itself!
• Dentist - Dr. Stuart Yoon DDS is a Dentist in the area that covers both Family and Cosmetic, and has proven very valuable in us getting the proper treatment we needed.
• Eyeglasses and Contacts - Asheville has many beautiful things to see, so your eyesight is of utmost importance. The Optical Shoppe in West Asheville can assist you greatly in this area.
• Asheville Health Span MD specializes in Aesthetics, Hormone Replacement and Weight Loss.
• Doctors - Here is a list of Asheville Family Doctors.

8. Asheville Movers

• Two Men and A Truck is based in the WNC area, and they are our locally preferred Moving Company. They come with all of the necessary insurance options, and have taken great care of us.

Other items include Duke Energy for your Electric, PSNC for Gas, Asheville Water Department, Verizon for Mobile, Charter for Phone, Cable TV and Internet.

Also see the City of Asheville and Buncombe County websites.

Amazing View: Lake and Mountains from Fletcher NC Community Park

See more Asheville and Western North Carolina photos like this on AskAsheville's Instagram and AskAsheville's Facebook.

Carpet Repair in Asheville and Western North Carolina

The carpet in your Asheville area home needs regular cleaning and sometimes even repairs. Without proper maintenance, a new carpet can look 5 years old in just a matter of months due to traffic, pets, kids, and dirt. At Dry Master Carpet Care, they specialize in carpet and tile cleaning, but they also do carpet repair. You may have those few little strands of carpet that just keeps getting worse, or you may need a whole section of carpet for a certain room or area. Watch this video and let them show you how it's done!

Meet some Asheville Real Estate Agents

Getting to know the Asheville Real Estate Agent you are working with definitely has its benefits. A new home is kinda like a marriage; like a new job. You do not just want anyone to marry you, just as you do not want to work for just anyone. You want something real and tangible; someone who cares about you and the important choice you are making. Working with people like Pat and Donna, who are a vibrant part of the Asheville area can make all of the difference in the world. Building relationships online and offline is important in a growing community. Pat and Donna of KW Asheville talk about how their passion is Real Estate, and helping you buy or sell a home, upsize, and even downsize is what they would love to help you with.

Amazing meal at The Cantina at Biltmore Village!!

Watch this video of an amazing meal being made at The Cantina. Talk about great, fresh food; and a tasty selection from their Margarita & Tequila bar... this is the place to be!!

The Cantina at Biltmore is located on the southside of Asheville NC, in Biltmore Village, just 1 minute from the Biltmore Estate.

Asheville Family Dentist - Dr. Stuart S. Yoon DDS PA

Finding a Dentist in Asheville is a careful experience. Just like your Physician, you do not go to just any Dentist. Meet Dr. Stuart S. Yoon DDS PA, who is in Candler North Carolina, just 5 minutes west of Asheville. One of the reasons this establishment is the perfect fit is because they not only do family dentistry, but also cosmetic dentistry. Years ago, I had a bunch of dental work going on, and ended up with appointments at 4 different places. With an Asheville area Dentist like Stuart Yoon, he covers 3 of those areas of dental service. What a savings on money and time this would have been. Anyway.. the family needs more dental work and this is the place we are going to!

Asheville area Real Estate in Fairview NC

Living in downtown Asheville is not for everyone. There are many Real Estate options on the outskirts of town. Pat and Donna of Keller Williams Asheville have this beautiful home for sale in the Fairview community. We have many friends who live around these parts, and they love the area. Very convenient to East Asheville and just over the mountain from Gerton, Chimney Rock, and Lake Lure NC. See the video of this home for sale in Fairview NC:

Asheville Italian Restaurant Video

If you have been to downtown Asheville, you have probably seen Strada Italiano, featuring local Chef Anthony Cerrato. Here is a 2013 video that was recently taken at the restaurant and takes you through a great plate of Italian Cuisine and Fusion being made. So delicious, a must try whether you live in the Asheville area or if you are visiting this incredible foodie community.

Fletcher NC Real Estate

Fletcher North Carolina is located about 10 minutes from downtown Hendersonville NC and 20 minutes from downtown Asheville. This is a beautiful area of Western North Carolina with the Asheville Regional Airport just minutes away. Airport Road is growing by leaps and bounds so a wide range of shopping is nearby. Are you in the market for Real Estate in Fletcher NC or the surrounding areas? See the video of this beautiful home and contact Pat and Donna for more information.

Asheville Junk Haulers, Hauling and Salvage

Meet Tyler Garrison of Junk Recyclers in this video below about Asheville & WNC Junk Haulers, Hauling and Salvage. Is junk piling up on your property, in your garage, in your home, in your basement? This is the company that can assist you in getting rid of it. You can also see the "Asheville Junk Haulers" video on YouTube.

Asheville Real Estate in the Montford Community

One of the choice areas of Asheville Real Estate is the Montford Community. The area some great bonuses. First of all, it is walkable from downtown Asheville so "City" access is easy. Next, it is an historic neighborhood which preserves a lot of the original features, with even the new construction matching the existing district. Many Bed & Breakfast estates are in the Montford Community. If you can find a piece of real estate in that area, you need to seriously consider it.

Pat & Donna, Asheville's Dream Team assist Buyers and Sellers in the Western North Carolina community with real estate choices. Are you looking to purchase a new home or a piece of property to build a new house? Their Realtor team can help you find what you are looking for. Looking to sell? Check out PatandDonna.com for more information.

Asheville Auto Insurance

When it comes to Auto Insurance in Asheville NC, you want the best coverage for the lowest payment you can find. Sean at Adams & Brown Insurance Agency in South Asheville is what many call the "Lizard Whisperer" and "Pig Roaster" when you stand their local company against the bigger nationwide and worldwide insurance agencies. They are so confident, he offers a free quote comparison that has allowed several of our friends to save hundreds of dollars per year on their Asheville area auto insurance policy.

Whether your drivers record is perfect, or if you have had problems, speeding tickets, DUI... Adams and Brown in South Asheville can find you the right insurance to fit your exact needs. Sean does the homework for each client individually because an insurance policy is not "one size fits all." Looking for Asheville Auto Insurance? Call Adams & Brown Insurance at 828-681-0790 and you can apply for a Quote on the Website.

Asheville Barber and Haircuts at Joe King's

The "Joe King" barber shop has been in the Asheville area for years. We had stopped by here several times to get a quick buzz or haircut from Joe back in the days. Today is is run by several women and they have a nice thing going on there. From what I have observed, there are a lot of barber shops in Asheville that are run by women. The team at Joe's also do haircuts, styling and more for the ladies of course. They are located at 484 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville NC 28804, on the northside on town. You can also see Joe King on Yelp.

Asheville Contacts and Contact Lenses

George and Jackie at the Optical Shoppe in West Asheville are great local people in the community who can help you with your contacts, contact lenses, eyeglasses, sunglasses and more. There are plenty of eyeglass frame styles for you to choose from. They also have an Optometrist at the shop several days a week who can provide exams for you and your family.

Are you looking for contacts / contact lenses in the Asheville North Carolina area? The Optical Shoppe is a great choice with one on one transactions with the Owners, and personalized service that has made them the top pick of many.

Mezzaluna - Yum in Hendersonville NC

In Hendersonville North Carolina, you will find a great restaurant called Mezzaluna on Main Street downtown. We stopped by there for a meal & had a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was inviting and comfortable, the staff was great, and the food was sooo good. Here is a photo of Mussels + Chorizo, a combination that quickly elevated this to one of the best Mussel dishes I have tried in WNC. Looking for a yum place to eat in Hendersonville NC? This restaurant is a must stop!

Two Asheville locals “follow their bliss” to create an unusual yet meaningful book

“Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.” – Joseph Campbell (1904–1987)

Mark Bloom and Linda Ray are duo behind Ray Access. They find other outlets for creative and professional passions. Mark edits books, both fiction & nonfiction.

Asheville author Dielle Ciesco took the words of mythologist Joseph Campbell to heart and started writing. Mark gave her words the heartbeat to make them come alive. The book definitely personifies the kind of collaboration that makes Asheville a unique and thriving arts community.

Contact Dielle Ciesco: atinfo@thevoiceoflife.com or at 828-667-2967.

Contact Mark Bloom: info@rayaccess.com or at 828-280-1686.

North Buncombe FFA Chapter Announces Scholarship Fundraiser BBQ

WEAVERVILLE, N.C. - The Future Farmers of America (FFA), Buncombe County is having a BBQ fundraiser on Friday, February 1 at North Buncombe High School in the cafeteria. The event lasts from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome and you can dine in, or take it to go. This is a fundraiser for scholarships given by the North Buncombe High School alumni to graduating seniors who were involved in the agricultural program throughout high school.

Dine in cost is $8 per plate and includes a beverage, baked beans, slaw, bread and dessert. For those who wish to bring their tasty BBQ home, it will be available for $7 per pound. Need advance tickets? Call Shawn Burleson at: 828-777-5818; or Justin Gillespie at 828-777-2187. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Zodiac Freak Party in Asheville NC, Friday January 25

Introducing Laughing Yoga of Asheville NC

Recently, a new form of exercise called Laughing Yoga made it way into town. Brian Bevans started it back in November 2012, and has been building a community around it since. He says "Laughing Yoga is way to release stress, bring more oxygen into the blood, lowers blood pressure, brings people closer together through team building, great for the skin, help with memory and it is extremely healthy for your whole body." For more information you can call Brian at 828-782-6989 and visit the Laughing Yoga of Asheville Facebook Page.

Asheville Tattoo Fest 2013 - Coming March 14-17th

The 2nd Annual Tattoo Fest is set for March 14-17, 2013 at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Asheville. Celebrity Artists include Lea Vendetta (pictured in photo above), Big Gus, Tommy Helm, Jasmine Rodriguez, Clint Cummings, Bili Vegas and many other worldwide Tattoo legends. You can also Like Asheville Tattoo Fest on Facebook.

Asheville Wing War II - Wings, Beer, Music & YOU!

The Asheville Wing War is back for the 2nd time! On March 10, 2013 many restaurants in the Asheville and Western North Carolina area will be at WWII battling it out for the BEST Wings. Add great local beer sponsors like Sierra Nevada and Pisgah Brewing to the mix and WOW, it's always a good time. The returning Champions are ready to retain their title! Who has the best Wing in Asheville? We will find out!

Coming February 19, 2013 - Ignite Asheville

We are excited to announce that Ignite Asheville is happening again, for the second time, on February 19, 2013 at Highland Brewing Company in East Asheville. They give you 5 minutes on stage, with 20 slides to use, to tell us your story, your passion, the thing you know will Ignite Asheville! Last year was the ground-breaking event that was completely sold out with folks turned away at the door. And what a great time we had. This year they have a venue that can handle about twice the crowd, so a huge community celebration it will be!! And yes, plenty of local craft beer (& water) straight out of the spicket will be on tap.


This year it is a little more exciting as they are using a community voting system where every one of you actually has 10 votes on the speakers you would like to hear. How it works is you go to the Ignite Asheville Vote Page and start voting for 10 people and subjects. As you can see on the voting page, there are so many great stories and applications that have come in. This is exciting. You, the people, get to plan this fantastic evening at Ignite Asheville! You can also help by promoting Ignite Asheville. Lets make it happen.

Asheville Attorney Cynthia Alleman - Wills, Probate, Guardianships, Trusts

Here is a featured video of Asheville Attorney Cynthia Alleman who specializes in Wills, Probate, Guardianships, Trusts, and Power of Attorney:

Asheville Crafts in the Grove Arcade

If you not been to the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville, it is a must stop when you come to the area. Lots of shops, eateries and history. One of our favorite stores is Asheville NC Home Crafts as they feature the work of so many craft artists not only in the AVL area, but also WNC and Regional. You can check out the Artist map when you stop by the store. There is something for everyone in this awesome shop. Are you looking for some incredible, handmade crafts in the Asheville area? This place inside of the Grove Arcade is a must see!

Asheville Insurance by Adams & Brown

Sometimes we are bombarded with insurance necessities and options. Everywhere we look it is auto, health, home, renters, business, and even disaster insurance at our doorstep. In Asheville, Sean at Adams & Brown Insurance focuses on Auto, Home, Motorcycle, Business and Commercial. The folks love him because of his down to earth and practical attitude about getting the best possible insurance for the price you are going to pay. He provides fair quotes and comparisons that come from a variety of providers. Are you looking for an Asheville area insurance company that can work around you, your budget, your needs? Sean is great to work with and has saved several of our team hundreds per year without the hype. You can give Adam's & Brown Insurance a call at 828-681-0790.

Asheville Printing by PostNet 141

Remember the days when you were all excited to print something at home, or at the office? Since then, many of us have realized we have more important things to do. Why not team up with an Asheville Printing company like PostNet 141 who offers print and many other services that go along with their neighborhood business center theme. Whether it is a flyer, business cards, envelopes, qr codes, or a full print design from scratch; PostNet Printing in South Asheville can help you with this!

Where can I get Eyeglasses in Asheville NC? Here..

There is a little shop in West Asheville that sells eyeglasses, contacts and other accessories. If you know where the Post Office is on Patton Avenue behind Sonic, the Optical Shoppe in the same parking lot plaza. Being able to see is a luxury that many of us cannot afford to lose. Being able to see better is a possibility for many of us. See this video and meet Jackie and George:

We have done business here several times in the past year and love going to the Optical Shoppe in Asheville for our Eyeglasses. 

TallGarys Asheville Restaurant & Music Hall

On the corner of College Street at Pritchard Park is TallGarys Cantina which is a lot more that just a taco shop. This venue in downtown Asheville starts off as a restaurant, but then you have to consider the outside patio, dinner, lunch + dinner on weekends, a full bar, Bloody Mary Bar, a stage area and late night entertainment. How about a Local Craft Beer or Tequila Flight to go along with that? Some Rock & Roll, Open Mic and Local Asheville Music! Sometimes it even breaks out into a dance party. Who knows?! Looking for a restaurant with a little twist? Some place where everyone is welcome and comfortable.. TallGarys is the spot.

Where can I find a Chiropractor in Asheville and WNC? Here..

Asheville is definitely not at a shortage for Chiropractors in general, but for one who has a successful and proven track record, there may take some digging. South Asheville Chiropractic features Dr. Henry Battistoni who uses state-of-the-art gentle hands on methods. When we met with the Doc, his concern was people living better by getting the proper adjustments and procedures needed. Are you struggling with pain? Are you located in the Asheville or WNC area? A Chiropractor may be exactly what you need. The Doctor Is In! You can meet him in this video below:

Asheville and WNC Junk Removal, Recycling, Upcycling, and Repurposing

Many people in Western North Carolina are always looking for ways to save, reuse, or recycle their goods. A group named Junk Recyclers based in North Asheville is doing a great work in the community. As you can see in this video, they come to your place and get rid of your "junk" or unwanted items. Sometimes this can be free of charge if there is some value and they can repair and/or resell it at a discounted price to the public. You can visit the Regeneration Station showroom on Riverside Drive. Do you have junk laying around your house, garage, basement, shed, or storage unit? Asheville's Junk Recyclers can help you clear it up!

Hidden River Events in Swannanoa NC - Asheville Weddings

Having a wedding in the mountains of Western North Carolina is magical. Hidden River Events is located just minutes East of Asheville North Carolina in Swannanoa, a great micro-community on the road to Black Mountain. With lots of acreage, they provide overnight or retreat accommodations, as well as a grand place to have events. Many folks choose Hidden River Events as their wedding destination as it is secluded and private, yet only a 10 minute drive to Asheville NC.

Eats and Treats Cafe in North Asheville - Woodfin NC

Everyone remembers the old Philly Hoagie House in Woodfin. It was the ice cream stop on that end of town. Now they are under new management and the place is called Eats & Treats Cafe. The menu and prices are great! If you are in the north Asheville area, stop by and check this place out for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts!