Claying Around

In its new location at 1378 Hendersonville Road, Claying Around now has more space, more products, and more parties aimed at bringing out the artist in each of us.

With more than 300 items of bisque ware from which to choose, new glass fusing and mosaic classes, pottery wheel lessons, and silver jewelry making, the possibilities for fun and creative expression are limitless.

Ceramic artist Leigh Cohen moved her shop from the Biltmore Village last year and is excited to offer a greater variety of paintable ceramics from plates to piggybanks, as well as specialty parties including birthdays, bridal and baby showers, office parties, home school and church groups, scouts, and even adults night out.

Brightly painted chairs and display pieces provide ample inspiration. Bring in the children for the Summer Kid’s Workshops where little ones can create and take home picture frames, wind chimes, mosaic sun catchers, and flower pots. For the adults, there is Chips and Dips Night or Decadent Dessert Night. The idea, says Leigh, is to relax and have fun.

The staff is ready to assist or answer questions. Grab your friends for a fun-filled night of treats and crafting.

Visit them at 1378 Hendersonville Road, Suite D or online at clayingaround.com. The store can be reached at 277.0042.
(In Photo: Leigh Cohen and Bella)

The Blue Ribbon Hair Salon

Edgy and stylish, The Blue Ribbon Hair Salon in West Asheville offers cutting edge cuts and colors in a casual, fresh atmosphere where complimentary brews and witty conversations flow freely. Owner Beth Adams is anything but pretentious. Her bright blue eyes and welcoming smile put customers at ease and have made this neighborhood salon a favorite. Blue Ribbon opened two years ago and provides quick services with uncompromising style and panache. Beth approaches her work more as an art form than an occupation.

“I love the creativity,” says Beth. “It’s rewarding to see when a new cut or style can make a person change their whole attitude about themselves.” She and her staff stay on top of the latest cuts, styles, and color techniques through continuing education courses and industry news.

Services are very affordable with a buzz cut only $12, short cut $20, and color starting at $45. The clientele appreciate the à la carte menu and frequent-customer discounts. Ride your bike to the salon and receive a 10% discount. From starting out cutting her family’s hair to servicing a very loyal and varied clientele, Beth could not be happier helping others feel good about themselves.

Visit them at 506 Haywood Road or online at blueribbonsalon.com. To make an appointment, call 251.4288.
(In Photo: Beth Adams)

C.W.Moose

It’s hard not to chuckle when browsing through C.W. Moose Trad- ing Co. in Black Mountain. Comical T-shirts, hysterical signs, and plenty of moose humor can be found alongside handcrafted jewelry, quality handbags, name brand shoes, and a variety of gift items.

“Our number one priority is to offer the highest quality of goods and impeccable customer service,” says Debbie Wanser who owns the shop with her husband Russ. “But we like to keep the fun in it.” Open since March of 2007, the shop enjoys a loyal following of locals and tourists.

Along with the large selection of moose memorabilia, they carry popular brands including baby clothes, men’s and women’s hats by Dorfman Pacific Co., bags from Ameribag and Baggallini, and shoes from Rieker, Danskos, Minnetonka, and Privo. Check out the selection of silver Chamilia jewelry, exotic wood watches by Tense, and “Life is Crap” T-shirts, hats, and aprons.

The Wansers are big supporters of local craftspeople and American-made products. Beautiful walking sticks, comical cards, wallets, belts, and interesting clocks make great gifts. While you are there, make sure to pose with Milton, the resident stuffed moose, for the store photo album.

Visit them at 111 W. State Street in Black Mountain or online at cwmoosetrading.com. The shop can be reached at 669.6833.
(In Photo: Russ and Debbie Wanser with Milton the Moose)

Perlman's Carpet One

One of the quickest ways to update any space is with new paint or flooring. The selection and custom options available at Pearlman’s Carpet One make flooring an attractive and affordable possibility.

Pam and Ed Israel bought the store from Lowell and Sally Pearlman three years ago, adding the Carpet One name along with a second location on Hendersonville Road in the Meridian Place. Many of Ed’s 25 years in the industry were spent under the tutelage of Mr. Pearlman and respecting the firm’s name and reputation is top priority.

“The Pearlmans were in business for 40 years,” Ed says. “Quality and service were always important.” Joining forces with Carpet One, a co-op of 1,200 stores around the world, allows them to significantly expand their selection, create area rugs from any in-house sample, provide expert color matching, and offer their “Beautiful Guarantee”—if you don’t like it, they will replace it.

Choose from carpet, vinyl, laminate, hardwood, and green flooring. There are top brands such as Tigressa and Disney carpets, Hanover Hills and American Expressions wood flooring, and Mirror Lake and SelectAFloor vinyl and tile. They also offer design services from ASID designers.

Visit them at 1833 Hendersonville Road or 80 Charlotte Street and online at carpetoneasheville.com. They can be reached at 505.8550 or 252.1594.
(In Photo: Julieta Jones, Pam Israel, Glenda Hurley, and Laura Williams)