Southern Highland Craft Guild Announces New Shop in Downtown Asheville’s Grove Arcade

Soft Opening Memorial Day Weekend | Grand Opening in June

ASHEVILLE, NC — [May 6, 2025] — The Southern Highland Craft Guild is proud to announce the opening of its newest shop location in the historic Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville. This new store will replace the former Mountain Made craft shop, continuing the tradition of handmade excellence in one of Asheville’s most iconic spaces.

Following the devastating flooding of our Biltmore Village shop during Hurricane Helene, this new location allows us to continue showcasing the work of our talented regional artists—and maintain our presence in the heart of Asheville’s creative community.

Leading the way is Judy Dillingham, our shop manager from the former Biltmore Village location and a proud Swannanoa native. Judy’s resilient spirit and deep roots in the WNC craft community have been a driving force in our recovery — and she's helping shape a new space that reflects the strength, creativity, and heart of our Guild.

The soft opening will take place Memorial Day Weekend, with a full Grand Opening celebration scheduled for June. Visitors will find a thoughtfully curated selection of fine handmade craft from Guild members across the Southern Appalachian region, representing disciplines such as pottery, textiles, glass, wood, jewelry, and more.

“We’re thrilled to have a new home downtown in the heart of Asheville’s creative community,” said Tom Bailey, Executive Director of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. “The Grove Arcade is a natural fit for our mission and membership—and it ensures we’ll be here to welcome locals and visitors alike during our downtown Craft Fairs and beyond.”

As we continue restoration efforts at our historic Biltmore Village shop, the Grove Arcade location ensures that the legacy of Appalachian craft remains visible, accessible, and vibrant.

For updates on opening events and shop hours, visit craftguild.org or follow us on Instagram @craftguild or @craftguild.grovearcade.