2014 Holiday Gift Guide

Copyright © IWANNA, USA LLC November 18, 2014

Surprise! gifts to wow everyone on your list

deck the halls

lights, ornaments + inspiration

2014 IWANNA.COM

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LOCAL EVENTS SHOPPING ADVICE HOLIDAY PLANNING WINTER CALENDAR

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f irs t l ook

Publisher Creative Director

Vincent grassia adalee elkins

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Christmas at Biltmore

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Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade

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Asheville Holiday Parade

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National Gingerbread House Competition

Copy Editor

carrie harder

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Holiday Coloring Contest

Production Manager

Lisa gallagher

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Shopping in Asheville

Creative Services

carrie harder

40 |

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland

Debi Manfre

62 |

River Arts District Shopping

david denton

63 |

6 Paper Gift Tags

randy whittington

68 |

November & December Calendar of Events

kim anderson

Director of Advertising Advertising Consultants

Patricia M. Betts meg hale Rick Jenkins Pam hensley

A Publication of

LuAnne Sheffield Michael Smith jennifer leblanc

22 Garfield Street, Suite 100 Asheville, NC 28813 828.274.8888

kimberly white jamie vaughan maggie leftwich

Distribution Manager

Mark graham

Website Development

Dan jaworsky

Cover designed by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide, a publication of IWANNA, has accepted contributions which may not reflect the opinion of the publisher. No portion of Holiday Gift Guide may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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holiday shopping

shop locally this holiday season Shopping is a big part of the holiday season, when families and friends gather to reconnect and exchange gifts. While the popularity of shopping online has grown, such practices are not always ecofriendly or timely, as gifts bought online must be packaged and shipped, wasting valuable resources and time that lastminute shoppers may not have.

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he benefits of shopping locally go beyond convenience and the chance to reduce your carbon footprint. The following are a few ways that shopping locally this holiday season can directly benefit your community and the people who call it home. l oca l e con omy When men and women shop locally, they are putting money back into their local communities. Local small businesses may be owned by your neighbors, and it can be comforting to know that your holiday shopping dollars are going to support a neighbor instead of a large corporation. Local businesses also employ your neighbors, so shopping local can strengthen the local economy by creating jobs that may not exist if you and members of your community fail to support local small businesses. c omm uni ty ide nti ty Local small businesses go a long way toward creating a neighborhood identity, and that identity can create a stronger sense of community among you and your neighbors.

In addition, a unique community identity can make your town more attractive to outsiders, and that appeal can improve the value of local real estate while also attracting more people to local businesses in your neighborhood.

u ni Qu en ess of g i f t s The gifts you buy when shopping locally also can benefit your community. Gifts purchased from small local businesses tend to be more unique than items bought from national chains, as smaller retailers tend to sell more homemade items than their national competitors. Recipients of such items may find such gifts more thoughtful than mass produced items bought from national chains, and the uniqueness of homemade gifts may encourage the gifts’ recipients to visit your community and do some shopping, further benefitting your local economy. c u stom er se rv i c e The accessibility of customer service is another oftoverlooked benefit of shopping locally. When buying from national chains, especially during the holiday season when such businesses may be overwhelmed with orders, making contact with customer service departments can be a trying exercise in patience.

Long wait times on the phone or online can make the process of contacting customer service extremely frustrating. But such frustration is rare when buying from local businesses, as consumers can simply take their products into the store, where employees can immediately address their concerns.

In addition, buying locally makes it more convenient for friends and family members who also live in your community to return their gifts.

- Metro Creative Connection

Every year, the Asheville Downtown Association organizes the Downtown Holiday Windows Contest. There will be about 40 businesses participating this year creating a delightful experience for everyone who walks around downtown. The event is appropriately sponsored by Window World of Asheville and there are cash prizes.

Judging will be Wednesday, December 3.

For a walking tour map visit: ashevilledowntown.org/Windows

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Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

local events

Christmas at

For more information about Christmas at Biltmore, visit Biltmore.com/visit Biltmore facade during the Christmas season. Photo credit; The Biltmore Company.

Known as one of the Southeast’s most beloved and storied holiday vacation destinations, Christmas at Biltmore daytime tours begin on Nov. 7, 2014, and will run through Jan. 11, 2015. Candlelight Christmas Evenings, offering evening candlelight tours of Biltmore House, take place Nov. 7, 2014 through Jan. 3, 2015.

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his year’s Christmas displays throughout the estate will draw inspiration from the theme “A Vanderbilt Christmas Celebration.” Décor will trend toward the opulent to create a sense of the Gilded Age, while incorporating elements that nod to George Vanderbilt’s legacy in Western North Carolina.

Having made an impression on the locals upon his arrival to the area in the 1880s, Vanderbilt hosted his first family Christmas celebration in Biltmore House in 1895. The event attracted media attention.

According to the Asheville News and Hotel Reporter, “Tastefully draped garlands of evergreen and mistletoe, interspersed with the shining leaves and red berries of holly, created a scene beautiful to look upon.”

Biltmore’s modern-day Christmas celebration is modeled on that first Christmas – and this year, that newspaper description influenced the design scheme. The Banquet Hall’s look will mix vintage and opulent accents with burgundy, red, gold and blue ornaments tucked into the centerpiece 34-foot tall Fraser fir Christmas tree. Two 14-foot trees will flank the triple fireplace, each bestowing the same colors for uniform effect. A deep red velvet runner edged with holly and red berries will accent the Hall’s dining table, with potted poinsettias and fresh cut flower arrangements completing the look.

Guests will see 60 trees throughout Biltmore House,

each intricately designed and decorated by members of Biltmore’s floral team. Miles of fresh garland and wreaths draped throughout the house yield a nostalgic yuletide scent.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Nov. 7 - Jan. 3, 2015 A 55-foot Norway spruce tree, lit by 45,000 tiny white lights, displayed on Biltmore’s front lawn welcomes guests who visit Biltmore House for Candlelight Christmas Evenings. This unique holiday experience features local choirs and small musical ensembles stationed in the Winter Garden and throughout the house, performing music of the season.

Candlelight Christmas Evenings includes an evening reservation to tour Biltmore House as well as daytime admission to Biltmore’s gardens, Antler Hill Village and Winery.

Around the Estate In Antler Hill Village, Santa will visit with children and families from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 8 through Dec. 21, and also on Friday, Nov. 29. Cedric’s Tavern will host live music nightly. The village links to the Winery where visitors may take guided tours, enjoy free wine tastings and purchase wines from Biltmore’s diverse portfolio, including the limited release Christmas at Biltmore blend. Special wine seminars are available by reservation.

Biltmore’s floral arranging and gardening experts will conduct free, daily seminars at A

Gardener’s Place retail gift shop from Oct. 17 through Jan. 11.

Seminars are “Winter Wreaths” at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and “Front Door Swags” at 1 and 3 p.m.

Holiday Dining and Lodging on the Estate Guests may enjoy a festive holiday meal at the estate prepared by award-winning chefs. Select from the Bistro, Deerpark Restaurant, Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern or The Dining Room at Inn on Biltmore Estate. The Inn will offer its annual Gingerbread House Tea on Dec. 18, 19, and 20. Guests can assemble a gingerbread house with the help of a pastry chef while enjoying afternoon tea.

For guests looking to extend their stay at Biltmore, the four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate offers several packages for holidays, including special Thanksgiving, Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve packages: Biltmore.com/stay/ inn/packages-specials/holidaypackages.

Biltmore boasts retail shops, all perfect for holiday gift shopping. Other activities include taking a horse and carriage ride; exploring acres of walking and biking trails and more.

- Courtesy of biltmore.com

George Vanderbilt opened his home, Biltmore, to family and friends on Christmas Eve 1895. Today, Biltmore celebrates this holiday tradition by decorating the grand rooms and spacious grounds of the estate.

A visit to “America’s Largest Home” may inspire you to bring some holiday elegance into your own home. Biltmore’s experts share some tips for creating a festive holiday display.

Tapestry Gallery. Photo credit; The Biltmore Company.

5 steps to a Biltmore-worthy tree 1 . hang the li gh t s Use electrical tape to attach power strips to the tree trunk.

2 . Wr ap the garl and Starting at the top of the tree, wrap in scallops; drop down a branch level at the back of the tree 3 . Hang the orna men t s Choose a variety of shapes and

sizes, placing the largest ones near the bottom of the tree.

4. Top i t of f Consider a simple tree topper such as a bow or dried flower bouquet.

5. c omp let e t h e loo k Choose an appopriate tree skirt; add some wrapped packages or poinsettias for more color.

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local events

Grove Arcade Winter Wonderland Nov through Jan 2

winter wonderland at the grove arcade A Season of Celebration in One of Asheville’s Architectural Jewels

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owntown Asheville’s historical Grove Arcade is a spectacular spot to enjoy the holidays and support locally-owned shops and restaurants. As to be expected, the Arcade will be “decking the halls” with holiday décor inside and out. The main attraction is once again the annual National Gingerbread House Competition™ hosted in partnership with The Omni Grove Park Inn. Come experience a Winter Wonderland full wintery décor and gingerbread houses from November 23 – January 2.

Grove Arcade makes the most out of this festive time of year and fully embraces the spirit of holiday décor, and welcomes Santa Claus to Asheville. Warm and snug inside the Arcade’s Winter Wonderland, Santa invites Arcade visitors to check-in with him for consultations on their holiday shopping lists. Santa visits the Arcade on Saturdays from noon – 4 pm, November 30-December 21. Photos will be taken and available for purchase.

Shopping at the Grove Arcade is easier this holiday season than ever before. In addition to the Arcade’s restaurants regular evening hours, many shops will be open until 8:00 pm on Fridays, starting November 29 until December 21. The Arcade shops offer gifts ranging from folksy to contemporary; free gift wrapping on Friday evenings. Its restaurants provide dining experiences from “on the corner” to “across the globe.” Experience Grove Arcade this holiday season.

- Courtesy of ashevilledowntown.org

A fanciful building, envisioned by Edwin Wiley Grove of the Grove Park Inn, that incorporates many architectural styles and served as one of the leading commerical buildings in the city in the 1930s. At 269,000 square feet, it was (and still is) the largest building in downtown Asheville.

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local events

home for the holidays

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he holiday season in Asheville officially kicks off the week before Thanksgiving with the 68th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade, presented by Bojangles, on November 22 beginning at 11am. The parade begins on Biltmore Avenue and South Charlotte Street, heads north to the Vance Monument, then west on Patton Avenue ending about South French Broad. The performance stop is located at the Vance Monument at the corner of Biltmore Avenue and Patton Avenue. Caleb Johnson, winner of American Idol and Asheville native will be grand marshal, in a float sponsored by Mission Health.

The Asheville Holiday Parade rolls, marches, and dances through downtown with nearly 100 entries from area nonprofits, schools and businesses. Bojangles will have food and beverages available for sale along the parade route.

Following the parade, is Ingles JingleFest at the U.S. Cellular Center from noon-5pm. Ingles JingleFest will feature nonstop entertainment with performances from many of the groups that participated in the parade, inflatables and bouncy houses, kid’s activities, and of course, photos with Santa. A handmade holiday craft market will also be held in the concourse area, featuring local crafters and artisans.

Parade Grand Marshal, Caleb Johnson, will stop by Ingles JingleFest for a meet and greet with area fans and sign autographs. A native of Asheville, Johnson’s first album Testify pays tribute to his lifelong obsession with Southern soul, classic rock, and heavy metal. Johnson’s versatility is on display tearing through blistering barnburners, blues-soaked rock

numbers, and heart-on-sleeve ballads.

Written and recorded in just three weeks, Johnson co-wrote nearly every song on the album. Testify features Jane’s Addiction bassist Chris Chaney, former Nine Inch Nails/Guns N’ Roses drummer Josh Freese, and guitarist Phil X (a multi-instrumentalist who’s previously played with Rob Zombie and Tommy Lee).

Definitely plan on spending Saturday, November 22nd in downtown Asheville and enjoy an entire day of free and festive family fun!

Who ’ s in the pa rad e?

❄ Asheville Fire Dept. ❄ Asheville Police Department/Sheriff ❄ Balloon - Music Note ❄ Grand Marshal Caleb Johnson ❄ Mission Health ❄ AC Reynolds High School Band ❄ AC Reynolds High School JROTC ❄ East Buncombe Rockets ❄ Telco Community Credit Union ❄ Asheville Dance Theatre ❄ Distinguished Young Women of Buncombe County Scholarship Program ❄ Smoky Mtn Toy Run/Eblen Charities St. Nicholas Project ❄ IWANNA ❄ Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont ❄ Hometown Holiday Jam ❄ Balloon - Star ❄ Goodwill ❄ Honored Vets - Mayors Comm for Veterans Affairs

❄ National Ms Ambassador 2014 ❄ Young Transportation ❄ Folk Heritage / Cole Mtn Cloggers ❄ Anytime Fitness ❄ Viper Allstar Cheerleading ❄ Go Minis ❄ Hillcrest Highsteppers ❄ MR Motorcycle ❄ WNC Dance Academy ❄ Eliada Homes ❄ Montford Park Players ❄ Sound Extreme Entertainment ❄ Postal Express ❄ Stilt Walker #1 ❄ Clyde A Erwin High School Marching Band ❄ Erwin Youth League ❄ American Cancer Society/Relay for Life ❄ Brother Wolf Animal Rescue ❄ Anthony Miller Racing ❄ Haywood Street Congregation ❄ Asheville Radio Group ❄ Powerful Youth in Training “PYT” ❄ Beta Lambda Zeta ❄ Bojangles ❄ Daniel Boone Council, Boy Scouts of America ❄ Trinity Baptist Church ❄ 357th Engineer Company ❄ Enka HS Band ❄ Enka Youth Cheerleaders ❄ iHeartMedia Ashevill ❄ Ingles ❄ Champion Credit Union ❄ Off the Wagon Dueling Piano Bar ❄ Asheville Flyer ❄ Emmanuel Lutheran School ❄ Buncombe County Veterans Council ❄ EBCI Pageant Board ❄ Asheville Second Line Mardi Gras Comm Band ❄ Asheville Federation of Negro Women’s Club ❄ Asheville Humane Society ❄ Odyssey Community School ❄ Center Stage Dance Studio

❄ West Carolina Dart Association ❄ Carolina Style Athletics ❄ Aaron’s Rental ❄ USS VI NC Submarine Veterans ❄ Deerfield Episcopal Retirement Community ❄ Fairview Flyers ❄ Sisters of Mercy Urgent Care ❄ Sound Explosion Mobile DJ Experience ❄ Window World of WNC ❄ WLOS ❄ TC Roberson High School Marching Band ❄ TC Roberson Air Force JROTC ❄ TC Roberson Youth Football & Cheer ❄ Waffle House ❄ Balloon - Turkey ❄ NC State Ambassador ❄ Charlotte Street Kids ❄ Omni Grove Park ❄ Summit CrossFit ❄ Balken Roofing ❄ Brookdale Senior Living ❄ Brevard College Cheer and Dance ❄ Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry ❄ Buncombe County Special Olympics ❄ Asheville Board of Realtors ❄ Ridin’ on Faith ❄ The Arc of Buncombe County ❄ Asheville Sun Soo Tae Kwon Do ❄ Alan’s Pawn and Jewelry ❄ UNC Asheville ❄ Street Creature ❄ Cherokee County Schools Energy/Maintenance Dept ❄ A New Hope Home Care ❄ Blue Ridge Rollergirls/Pub Cycle ❄ Asheville High School Marching Band ❄ Asheville Youth Football & Cheerleading League ❄ Access Church ❄ Angies Dance Academy ❄ Appalachian Realty ❄ New World Celts Asheville Chapter ❄ Irene Wortham Center ❄ Girl Scouts Troop 2497 ❄ Stilt Walker #2 ❄ Mountaineer Shrine Club ❄ Asheville Citizen-Times ❄ Asheville GreenWorks ❄ Toys For Tots Trolley ❄ ME Woods ❄ Santa

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local events

national

gingerbread

house competition

TM

On display November 19, 2014 through January 1st, 2015.

Open to the public on Sunday through Thursday. Resort guests only on Friday and Saturday please.

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mells of gingerbread are in the air! The time has finally arrived for the 22nd Annual National Gingerbread House Competition TM! After the judging and the awards ceremony are over, the display will be set up throughout the hotel and will be open for viewing from November 19th through January 1st, 2015.

As a means to preserve the overall guest experience, The Omni Grove Park Inn will open its doors to the public to view the Gingerbread display and holiday splendor from

Sunday through Thursday, excluding holidays. A $10 parking charge will be in effect for all drive on guests (one charge per vehicle, based on availability). The charge will cover the increased number of employees necessary to man the additional traffic flow and to provide greater guest service as well as directional signage for the holidays.

Half of each parking charge collected this holiday season will be returned to the community in support of one of six local not-for-profits.

- Courtesy of groveparkinn.com

make your own

Feeling creative? Make your own gingerbread house with these recipes and instructions from the Grove Park Inn. gingerbread 1 lb. Margarine 12 oz. Brown Sugar 1 lb. Molasses 3 lbs. 8oz. All Purpose Flour 1 Tbs + 1 tsp Cinnamon 1 Tbs + 1 tsp Ground Ginger 1 tsp. Ground Cloves 2 tsp Salt 11 oz. Cold Water ➜ Cream margarine, brown sugar, spices and salt until light and fluffy. ➜ Add and blend molasses. ➜ Add flour and mix to combine. ➜ Add cold water and blend. ➜ Refrigerate to set. ➜ Bake at 350°F until done.

(Approximately 15-20 minutes)

royal icing 1 lb. Powdered Sugar 2 Egg Whites 1 tsp. Cream of Tartar ➜ Add egg whites to sugar and cream of tartar. ➜ Beat on high for 3-5 minutes until snow-white and fluffy. ➜ Keep covered with a damp towel to retain moisture and avoid hardening.

Top: 2013 Adult Grand Prize - Kimberly Thalman from Franklin, WI; 2013 Adult Second Place - Glenda Tant from Lebanon, TN

Royal Icing is the best choice for assembling and decorating

gingerbread house. Most other icings contain shortening or butter that will eventually soak into the gingerbread and could cause your house to soften and collapse.

marzipan

construction tips • •

• •

2 lbs. Almond Paste ½ cup Light Corn Syrup 2 lbs. Sifted Powered Sugar

•

Marzipan is an edible clay-like substance that can be rolled, pressed, and molded into creative shapes for garnishments, people, packages, creatures, etc.

• • •

pastillage 1 oz. Gelatin 8 oz. Water 5 lbs. Confectioner’s Sugar ➜ Heat together the gelatin and water until dissolved. ➜ Add confectioner’s sugar. ➜ Keep covered with a wet towel.

Pastillage, similar to stiff putty, is sometimes referred to as gum paste. Pestillage is rolled fondant without any of the softening ingredients (glycerin, corn starch, or shortening). It dries bone-dry and crusts more quickly than fondant.

• •

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•

Decide on shape and style of house.

Make templates for all sides and roof of house (cardboard, posterboard).

Decide on the materials you plan to use.

Roll out gingerbread to approximately ¼ inch thick.

Decide on a style of window (examples: poured sugar, chocolate candies).

Do all decorating on side of house before assembly.

Make Royal Icing. Keep covered.

Assemble your house. You will need cans and little boxes to help support your house while the Royal Icing dries.

Decide on material for the roof (keep weight in mind).

When sides and front are dry and sturdy, assemble the roof.

Cover with a little powdered sugar for a snowy look (optional).

Add Christmas trees or people, animals, little ponds, snow banks, etc.

Have fun!

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Color Santa and the Santa Express for our Holiday Coloring Contest!

You could win a $50 Gift Certificate to The Toy Box.

CONTEST RULES

1. Contest is open to children ages 10 and under. Two age divisions: 3 - 6 years old and 7 - 10 years old. Relatives of IWANNA employees or contest sponsor are not eligible to win.

2. Contestants may use crayons, colored pencils, markers, glitter, etc. Adults may assist in completing the contest entry form, but not in the coloring.

3. Limit one entry per child. Entries will not be returned.

4. All entries must be postmarked by Dec. 2, 2014.

5. Submissions are considered property of IWANNA and may be printed in this newspaper.

6. Decisions of judges are final.

Entries will be on display at our office in Biltmore Station.

Contest sponsored by:

THE TOY BOX

Name:_______________________________________________________________________________

OF ASHEVILLE, INC.

Age:____________ Phone:______________________________________________________________

793 Merrimon Ave. Asheville, NC 28804

Address:_____________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________ State:_______________ Zip:______________________

Please send Santa Coloring Contest entry form to: Santa Coloring Contest c/o IWANNA 22 Garfield St., Suite 100 • PO Box 15228 • Asheville, NC 28813

828-254-8697

Open Daily 10-6 Closed Sunday Find us on fun@toyboxasheville.com www.toyboxasheville.com

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 19, 2013

gifts for her

A

ALL OF HER FAVORITE THINGS

are in stock and on sale for the holidays!

25% off All Seiko and Pulsar Mens or Ladies Watches

C

Finklestein’s Estate Jewelry 25% off

B

Candler Budget Bridal Shoppe Over 450 gowns $300 or less

D

Baby Lock Rachel Sewing Machine at $479

A. b. c. d.

269 Tunnel Road 828.252.9891 2274 Smoky Park Hwy 828.670.1871 21 Broadway Downtown 828.253.7731 1378 Hendersonville Rd 828.277.4100

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holiday shopping

how to save on high-tech gifts Gadgets are among the most popular gifts come the holiday season. In 2013, CreditDonkey.com surveyed shoppers to determine what they planned to give during the holidays, and electronics were second only to gift cards among the most popular gifts to give. Sixty-three percent of respondents cited their intentions to give electronics, while the survey also found that 76 percent of people planned to request electronics as holiday gifts.

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adgets figure to be popular gifts again this holiday season.

Unwrapping the latest tablet or a big-screen television can be exciting, but electronics can be expensive. Those who plan to give their loved ones the latest

gadgetry should be happy to learn there are ways to do so that don’t require breaking the bank. s ca l e Bac k .

Oftentimes people are buying more computer or data than

they actually need. For example, when buying computers, it’s tempting to go for those that boast the most memory, but that extra memory is only useful to those people who truly need it. A less expensive model that suits your loved one’s genuine needs will make for an impressive and more practical gift. d ete rmi ne nec ess ity.

Some gadgets are more a desire than a necessity. Decide if a particular device will be an asset to your loved one or just another trendy item that soon will be gathering dust. Look for devices that your loved one will make the most of. If the purchase is not warranted, save your money and look for something else.

con sid er ref ur B i sh ed.

Don’t shy away from refurbished items, as the discounts can be steep. Refurbished items are often just items that were returned to the store because they’re not needed or because the item was malfunctioning.

Returned items are factorytested and then repackaged.

Opt for refurbished items that carry a manufacturer-backed warranty for greater peace of mind.

op en B ox i t e ms.

Just because packaging is dented or torn does not mean the merchandise inside is damaged. Purchasing a product that’s not inside a pristine box can sometimes yield a 10 to 15 percent discount at retailers that offer open-box specials. Just verify that all cords, manuals and other accessories are inside the box before leaving the store. p er us e p r ev i ou s g en er at i on mod el s.

Manufacturers release a new version of their devices seemingly every year. That doesn’t mean last year’s phone, video game console or computer is any less effective than the updated version.

Models from previous years likely won’t be much different from the latest models, but they do figure to be considerably less expensive. l ook f or c o up o n c odes . When researching products, search for coupon codes for desired electronics and retailers. Web-based retailers may post coupon codes that add up to significant savings. Just ensure that the total cost after taxes and shipping fees are calculated makes the purchase worth your while. sk i p t h e War r an t y.

Extended warranties often cost more money than potential repairs. In addition, after a few year’s time, your loved one may be looking to upgrade his or her gadget anyway, making the extended warranty an unnecessary expense.

Gadgets make for popular yet expensive holiday gifts.

But holiday shoppers can save money on electronics by employing a few savings strategies.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 19, 2013

gifts for him

WRAP UP THRILLS

with prices you’ll appreciate A

blacker saturdays Specials Every Weekend from Thanksgiving till Christmas HDAshevillecom

C

B Yamaha’s starting at $38 a month

JEWELRY

Shop Big, Save Big! Entire Jewelry Stock up to 70% off

D

25% - 40% off All Seiko and Pulsar Mens or Ladies Watches A. 20 Patton Cove Rd 828-581-2000 b. 1186 Patton Avenue 828.254.8681 736 Tunnel Road 828.299.4440 c. 774 Hendersonville Rd 828.277.8600 d. 269 Tunnel Road 828.252.9891

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holiday shopping

4 holiday gift ideas for the in your life

new parent

Many parents fondly recall their first holiday season as a mom and dad. While youngsters may not remember much about their first Thanksgiving dinner with family or where their first Christmas present was placed under the tree, parents tend to cherish such memories, making their first holidays with children in tow very memorable.

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oved ones of new parents can take steps to make this holiday season even more special. The following are some gift ideas for holiday shoppers who want to make this season even more memorable for the proud new parents in their lives.

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ph oto al Bum Today’s new parents have more pictures and video of their bundles of joy than any previous generation of moms and dads, as smartphones, tablets and other devices have made taking pictures much easier than in years past. But family members also have more access to such photos than ever before, making it easy to put together a special photo album of the new parents and their new child. Pull pictures from the parents’ social media accounts or make an album of the numerous photos you have no doubt received since your loved ones became parents. Parents likely don’t have time to make such albums, so your efforts will almost certainly be appreciated. ca mco rder Many smartphones are capable of taking video, but such devices are not ideal for shooting longer home videos new parents will want to watch for years to come. An HD camcorder with sufficient internal flash memory can allow new parents to take longer, higher quality videos with superior audio to those that are shot on smartphones. Such a camcorder may be costly for those shopping on a strict budget, but it’s a gift new parents are sure to love and utilize for years to come.

new parents often cherish their first holiday season as moms and dads, and the right holiday gift can make that first holiday season even better

n u rser y sou n d sy s t em New moms and dads are no doubt anxiously anticipating the day when the newest additions to their households sleep through the night.

Help speed up the arrival of that glorious night with a nursery sound system that provides soothing sounds to create a perfect sleeping environment for newly born boys and girls. The results may not arrive overnight, but parents may soon find their lovable youngster is spending more of the wee hours of the morning sleeping and less time waking up mom and dad. spa t re at m en t Not every gift you buy for the new parents in your life needs to focus on helping them cherish their first holiday season as parents.

New parents tend to experience lots of exhaustion in their first few months on the job, but a spa treatment can be just the relaxing break they need from catering to their bundle of joys’ every need. Moms may prefer the full spa treatment, while dads may simply want a massage and some relaxing time in the steam room. Book a treatment for both mom and dad so they can spend some time relaxing during this hectic time of year.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 19, 2013

gifts for kids

SAVE ON THE IT’S-JUST-WHATI-WANTED GIFTS FOR THE KIDS

And Make It The Best Christmas Morning Ever!

A

JACKSON’S WESTERN STORE & SADDLE SHOP Kids Hats starting at $15

B

Ludwig Drums starting at $449

A. 641 Patton Ave 828.254.1812 b. 1408 C Patton Ave 828.253.8735

Contest sponsored by: THE TOY BOX

OF ASHEVILLE, INC.

You could win a $50 Gift Certificate to The Toy Box. See page 14 for contest rules

793 Merrimon Ave. Asheville, NC 28804 Open Daily 10-6 828-254-8697 Closed Sunday

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20 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

how to give holiday gift cards Nearly every man or woman has hit that all too familiar wall when holiday shopping for friends and family. While many people might be a cinch to shop for, there always seems to be one stickler on holiday shopping lists, and finding the right gift for that person can be an exercise in patience and perseverance.

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ut even the most patient shopper has his or her limits, and many people find themselves giving gift cards to those friends or family members who seemingly have everything already. Such cards make great gifts, but only when gift givers employ a few tricks of the gift card trade.

B uy di r ec t ly f ro m t he r eta i le r . It’s easy to be duped by a counterfeit gift card, which can be embarrassing for both the gift giver and its eventual recipient. Counterfeit gift cards are big business for criminals who prey on gift givers during the holiday season. Only buy gift cards

directly from the retailer, as cards sold by other sources, such as an online auction site, may be stolen or counterfeit.

You don’t want to be the person who gave a stolen or counterfeit card, and your friend or family member does not want to be subjected to an inquiry as to why he or she is attempting to use a stolen or counterfeit card.

E xam ine th e c ard befo re leavin g t he s tor e. Once a cashier or customer service employee hands you a gift card, examine it for tampering before leaving

the store. Some criminals gain access to gift cards, even those that appear to be behind lock and key, to learn the PIN number associated with the card. Once they have the PIN, recipients can then recreate their own card, using the stolen PIN to activate and make purchases on their counterfeit cards long before the real card is sold to you. If you detect any damage, ask for a new card

before leaving the store.

In c l u de a g i ft rec eip t w it h t h e c ar d. When giving a gift card, don’t forget to include the gift receipt. The gift receipt not only verifies the value of the gift card, but also includes the date the card was purchased. That’s important information, as many companies begin to charge fees, some of which may be exorbitant, on unused cards after a predetermined period of time. Recipients who have the gift receipt won’t have to haggle with retailers about the value of the card should that ever be in dispute, and the receipt also can serve as a reminder that the recipient needs to use the card before a given date to avoid fees.

C on sid er a g en er al p ur p os e g if t c a rd. If that stickler on your holiday shopping list is especially difficult to shop for, then you might want to consider a general purpose gift card issued by a company such as American Express, MasterCard or Visa. These cards generally allow recipients to use their gift wherever they choose, whether it’s to put gas in their tank or buy groceries.

That versatility is valuable if you truly have no idea what your friend or family member needs or where he or she likes to shop. One notable disadvantage to general purpose gift cards is that they tend to come with more fees than more traditional gift cards purchased directly from specific retailers. Investigate these fees and find a card that charges no fees or only minimal fees.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 19, 2013

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22 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday at home

holiday living made easy

a few simple strategies can help you save time and reduce stress this holiday season

With so much on our plates between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic.

Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manageable.

I

f you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the color of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before stringing the lights.

• Put a bath mat, rug-side down and rubber-side up,

beneath your Christmas tree stand. This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and ornaments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

• Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree

portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves.

Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

• Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier.

Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

• Store one or two strings of lights in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a storage bin.

• Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters.

They’re easy to assemble and will not damage the bannisters.

• A paper towel holder can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of

ribbon. Simply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

• Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

• Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commercially produced paper or newsprint.

• Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand. Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hard-to-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

• When traveling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suitcase or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from

others at the airport.

• Place hardened brown sugar in a baking dish, cover it with a moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a 300 F oven for five minutes.

This will soften the sugar, making it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

• Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices. Such ties also can be used to organize decorating components and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

• Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions. Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

• Hang a live wreath or some boughs of evergreen in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

• Color-code storage containers so you can easily find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

• Pack for a holiday excursion using a collapsible clothing storage hanger for closets. Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase. When you get to your destination, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes Make the holidays even more enjoyable with a variety of timesavers and clever tips.

- Metro Creative Connection

Deadline to Advertise is November 25th, 2014. Call 828-274-8888 to reserve your space.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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GIFT GUIDE Shop here for fun and affordable gift ideas for all the names on your list!

24 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday at home

gift wrap tricks to save time

People have varying degrees of ability with regard to wrapping gifts. Some excel at those creased corners and perfect bows, while others are less adept at wrapping.

The task of wrapping gifts may not be something to look forward to, but wrapping gifts is an essential element of the holiday season.

F

ortunately, there are a few tricks of the trade wrappers can lean on to make the process of wrapping gifts go as quickly and as smoothly as possible. · Stock up on double-sided tape. Wrapping with doublesided tape helps you avoid unsightly tape lines and creates a neat finished product. · Use a toilet paper tube to preserve wrapping paper rolls and keep them from unravelling.

Simply cut the tube lengthwise and snap it over the open roll of

paper to serve as a handy clip to keep the paper tidy. · When you lose the edge of the tape on a roll, it can take precious time trying to find it again and then lift a piece of tape off the roll. Use a plastic bread clip to hold the place of the edge of the tape to prevent this from happening. · Turn snack containers into handy gift wrap options. Empty potato chip cannisters can be wrapped and used to hold other food gifts or smaller stocking stuffers. Turn a foil-lined chip

or popcorn bag inside out, first cleaning away any grease and crumbs, and use the bag to wrap a gift and tie off the end with a decorative ribbon. · Wooden spoons or popsicle sticks can make clever gift tags.

Poke a hole in the end and tie onto your gift. · Use a piece of fabric to wrap a present if you’re not too skilled with traditional paper.

Fabric can be reused and is more durable, and you won’t run the risk of tearing an edge or poking a hole through it.

This can be especially useful for oddly shaped gifts. · Newsprint tied with natural cord and some pine boughs is an inexpensive, classic-looking gift wrap. · Kraft butcher paper or brown mailing paper can be used in a pinch. Stamp images on the paper to customize the gift wrap and use ribbons and bows to further dress things up. · Always work on a hard, flat surface, as working on the floor or a soft surface makes it more difficult to control wrapping

paper and you’re more likely to tear the paper. · Use a gift box or cardboard to create a firm container to wrap soft gifts. · Reuse old boxes to create a greeting card. Use a piece of ribbon and a bow and your newly created card as a thankyou or gift tag for future gifts.

This is a great way to recycle during a season when excess is common.

- Metro Creative Connection

DIY Christmas

Christmas Crackers

It’s a snap to make your own crackers, and filling them with gifts is easy - plus many of the materials can be found around the house. If you want yours to open with a bang, cracker snaps can be found at your local craft store.

Take wrapping paper, a snap, and a cardboard tube (toilet paper rolls work well) and add glue to the end of the paper, rolling up tightly and seal. Fill with little trinkets, candies, and a paper crown. Tie both ends with a pretty ribbon.

- Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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26 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

gift exchange dos and don’ts Chanukah, Christmas and New Year’s Eve are right around the corner. That means neighborhoods, buildings and stores will soon be awash in holiday splendor. Social schedules will be full, and men and women everywhere will shuffle to complete their holiday shopping.

G

rab bags are a staple of this season of giving, and the following are a few dos and don’ts to ensure participation in gift exchanges is fun and friendly for all involved.

DO set a gift amount limit. Holiday grab bags are more about having fun and exchanging a little something with friends and family members than walking away with amazing prizes. Establish a spending limit so everyone receives a gift of roughly the same value and no one feels slighted or left out.

DON’T exceed the spending limit. It can be tempting to spend more to make your gift appear more impressive.

But overspending defeats the purpose of the gift exchange.

Grab bags typically are

anonymous, so being overly generous will not win you any style points.

DO make it a game. Tossing gifts in a bag only to have others reach in and grab one is certainly effective. But the concept can be even more fun if you make a game out of it. Try passing wrapped gifts around in a circle to a holiday song.

When the music stops, the gift you are holding is the one you open. Experiment with your own variations to make gift exchanges more fun.

DON’T let anyone see the gift you bring. The idea is to keep things as secretive as possible so as not to sway the selection of presents.

DO ensure your gift is unisex.

Unless you know specifically that only men or women will be opening the presents, select

items that will appeal to both genders. Food, gift cards, music, or home staples make great grab bag gifts.

DON’T forget to consider ages as well. Gift exchanges may include both children and adults, so include gifts that appeal to all ages when necessary. When the exchange has ended, allow participants to swap gifts if they want to.

DO expect some grab bag gifts to be gag gifts. Such gifts are entertaining and may make

up the majority of the grab bag gifts. Keep your sense of humor and you’re likely to enjoy grab bags a lot more.

DON’T regift items to use as grab bag picks. Should the person who gave you the gift participate in the grab bag, he or she can trace that gift back to you and may be offended.

DO make sure everyone is aware that there will be a grab bag gift exchange, as there needs to be an equal number of gifts to participants so everyone

stress-free holiday hosting tips pass th e B uck Consider passing the hosting duties on to a local restaurant.

gets a treat. Hosts may want to have a few extra wrapped gifts around just in case someone forgets to bring their contribution.

Gift exchanges in the form of grab bags, auctions, swaps, and other games make for fun additions to holiday festivities.

They also can be a part of any family or friends gathering to add excitement and entertainment to the occasion.

- Metro Creative Connection

p l an W el l i n adva nc e Certain items for the party, like decorations and certain snacks and beverages, have no expiration dates, so buy such items early. en l is t h el p Invite a friend over to help decorate and ask guests to bring certain items to save you some work.

h av e a t h em e Themes set a tone for the party right away and often make it easier for guest to unwind.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

27

R R ER

R N PH

28 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

Santa’s Reindeer Roundup!

Created by Adalee Elkins

Find Dasher! Find Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! Find Comet! Find Cupid! Find Donner and Blitzen! But don’t forget the most famous reindeer of them all! Help Santa roundup all nine of his reindeer by circling the words listed to the right. Words may appear straight across, backword straight across, up and down, down and up, and diagonally.

holiday puzzles

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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30 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

strategies for

last minute shoppers

Holiday shoppers tend to fall into three distinct camps. There are those people who have completed all of their shopping and wrapping even before November ends. Others shop in the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Finally, many people wait until the last minute, and such shoppers are the ones seen rushing from store to store on December 24.

Waiting until the last possible second to purchase a gift may not prove much of a problem when shopping for birthday gifts. But come the holiday season, such procrastination may find shoppers perusing limited inventories and dealing with other frantic proscrastinators.

B

ut even those shoppers who still plan to put off their holiday shopping can make the most of such stalling this holiday

season.

1

con sid er egi ft car ds Many retailers offer digital gift cards that can be emailed in a matter of minutes. Purchase the card from the online retailer and email the redemption code to the gift recipient. Time the email to arrive on Christmas morning or include all of the necessary information in a holiday card.

2

shi p to s tor e Some shoppers like the convenience of ship-tostore services. This enables a person to purchase a gift online but avoid shipping charges by having the item made available at a store location.

In-stock items are typically ready the day of purchase, and this helps you avoid crowds and impulse buys, as online purchases are typically available at special pick-up locations in the store that allow online shoppers to skip long lines at the registers.

3

Avo id gim mic k g ift s Skip the “as seen on TV” aisle at the store or trendy infomercial gifts. Such gifts may suggest to their recipients that you waited until the last

skip the “as seen on tv” aisle at the store or trendy infomerical gifts minute to buy the gifts and then really didn’t have any good ideas.

4

Ex pe c t ex t r a c ha rg e s Procrastinating may work for your schedule, but expect to pay more if you shop online and require shipping. You will probably need to expedite shipping if you expect to have gifts delivered on time. Verify the delivery date before making any purchases. Paying more for shipping may outweigh the hassle of driving to store after store searching for gifts. Online retailers like Amazon may even offer selective delivery on Christmas Eve.

5

C h ec k stor e h ou rs Some stores offer extended shopping hours to meet the needs of last-minute shoppers. You may be able to visit early morning or late at night to skip the crowds. Certain department stores time sales with these extended hours, such as “early bird” or “night owl” specials, so you may even be rewarded for procrastinating.

6

Sh op sm al l er re tai l er s One way to avoid the hassles that often come with holiday shopping is to patronize smaller, independent shops. Chances are the crowds will be smaller at these shops and you may have access to a more unique selection of gifts than you would find at the nearby mall.

- Metro Creative Connection

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32 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

33

Gift Giving Etiquette Easy Holiday Wreaths ‘Green’ Giving

2014 Iwanna.com

great

gifts for people B who love to read

Many people love to read, and such people do not often cause headaches for holiday shoppers. Readers typically are easy to shop for come the holiday season.

ut books aren’t the only gifts shoppers can give the readers on their lists this holiday season. The following are a few gift ideas no book lover can balk at.

E- rea de r Before buying an e-reader,

shoppers may want to first learn where the intended recipient of this thoughtful gift stands on the book versus e-reader debate. Some book lovers feel a sentimental attachment to traditional books, while others love the versatility of e-readers, many of which serve

How to

Establish Spending Limits p.45

as tablets that allow users to peruse the Internet, play games and, of course, read books. If your friend or family member does not have an aversion to e-readers, then this might make the ideal gift. The price of e-readers varies depending on their capabilities, but you can

34 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping expect to spend anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars depending on which model you ultimately choose.

Stor ag e For those readers who prefer traditional books, a new bookshelf can help them store their favorite titles.

Books take up a lot of space, and avid readers tend to buy many new books each year, so homeowners and apartment dwellers alike will no doubt appreciate the extra space to store their collections. But even e-reader enthusiasts may find their storage filling up faster than they might have liked. To remedy that problem, holiday

shoppers can buy a Wi-Drive with ample extra storage space so readers who keep both books and movies on their e-readers and tablets have plenty of extra space to store all of those new books they plan to read in the coming year.

De co r at i ve bo okends Those who have a passion for books and home décor might appreciate a unique set of handcrafted bookends to store the books they keep on their desks or those they keep out as decorative accents that guests can enjoy when visiting. Such gifts will please your friends or family members who have a flare for interior decorating

Some book lovers feel a sentimental attachment to traditional books, while others love the versatility of e-readers, many of which serve as tablets that allow users to peruse the Internet, play games, and of course, read books while also appealing to their love of literature.

Boo k c lub mem be r shi p A membership to a Book of the Month Club may be right up the alleys of those readers who read too fast to join a local reading group or simply don’t have the time to devote to a community book club. Such memberships often sell classic titles and the latest bestsellers at a fraction of the cost of the publisherestablished prices, and members typically can order as many books as they would like. This can be a great way for readers to find new titles and keep the books coming in without breaking the bank.

Avid readers are passionate about their books, and holiday shoppers can feed those passions by giving their favorite readers gifts that indulge their love of literature this holiday season.

- Metro Creative Connection

Places in

NC with holiday themed names:

Bells, Chatham Co. Comet, Ashe Co. Cranberry, Avery Co. Elf, Clay Co. Evergreen, Columbus Co. Faith, Rowan Co. Garland, Sampson Co. Star, Montgomery Co. Starlight, Wayne Co. Turkey, Sampson Co.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

35

holiday shopping

Asheville is a

shopper’ s paradise

E

very street downtown leads to a treasuretrove of uncommon businesses that could only flourish in Asheville. There is a diverse mix of shopping malls and shopping districts, along with specialty stores like clothing and jewelry stores, toy and children’s shops, and outfitters.

Oh, What

Fun Shop! it is to

This holiday season shop locally! Here’s where you can find great gifts all while supporting our local economy!

a rt s & C r a ft s are some of the most unique shopping finds in the Asheville area, ranging from fine arts galleries to Native American art to contemporary mountain crafts.

A n t i qu e s ho ps in Ashevillle range from 6,000 square-foot antiques emporium

to unique boutique antique shops specializing in art, estate jewelry and imported European antique furniture.

Sho pp ing di s tri cts & ma ll s With two shopping malls and various shopping districts, Asheville is an ideal place for a shopaholic. Asheville contains popular retail chain shops featuring trusted and familiar names, the unique retail center at the historic and revitalized Grove Arcade building, as well as distinctive, pedestrian-friendly shopping

neighborhoods, like Biltmore Village, lined with locally-owned boutiques.

Toy sto res & C h i l dr e n cl ot hing You won’t find the same old tired children’s gifts, toys and clothing in Asheville.

There are several boutique and independent toy stores, baby shops and children’s shops with unique, hard-to-find gifts.

Cl oth ing and j e w e l r y Unique shops and boutiques offer one-of-a kind treasures, elegant jewelry crafted from

mountain wildflowers and vibrant clothing.

Ou t f i t t e r s Nestled in the heart of America’s best outdoor adventures, it’s no surprise that Asheville is home to outfitters for all your camping, outdoors, hunting and fishing shopping needs.

Outfitters can set you up with everything from rafting and camping equipment to bicycles and mountain-climbing gear.

For more information on where to shop, visit exploreasheville.com.

36 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday at home

send gifts

the box. If the gift is expensive, insure the package in the event it gets lost or damaged. Also, you may want to spend a little more money to have the shipment tracked and a confirmation sent when the package is delivered.

This can offer some peace of mind during a hectic time of year.

how to to faraway friends and family

The holiday season is a time to share happy experiences with friends and family. But reconnecting with loved ones come the holidays is not always possible, especially when family and friends are spread out across the country, if not the globe. Even though these people may not be close geographically, they’re still close in our hearts and, therefore, still on our holiday shopping lists.

S

ome issues arise when sending gifts to faraway friends and family. Distance necessitates

shipping gifts or making travel arrangements. To make that process less complicated, consider these suggestions.

Package gifts wisely When shipping gifts, exercise caution to ensure the item arrives on time and in one piece.

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for the shipping industry, and

packages may endure a few bumps along the way. For fragile items, use extra packing peanuts, newspaper or other protective wrapping material. Choose the right size package so the gift does not move around much inside of

Take advantage of free shipping offers Many retailers offer discounts on shipping rates during the holiday season. Shop at retailers that offer such discounts, as shipping costs can be exorbitant depending on the sizes of the packages being sent. In addition, online retailers may allow you to ship the gift directly to its recipient, which can help you ensure the gift gets to its destination on time.

Give gift cards Gift cards are an easy item to ship, and can be sent within the regular mail for the cost of a stamp. Certain retailers may have digital gift cards or certificates that allow buyers to email a special code to the gift recipient, who can then redeem the code for a purchase credit. This is a convenient, fast and inexpensive way to send holiday wishes.

Don’t forget about inspections and customs procedures Items shipped out of the country may be delayed by customs inspectors at their ultimate destination. Assume that certain packages may be opened or detained, and ship such packages early so the gifts still arrive on time. Packages that look unusual or like they’re hiding something may be prone to inspection more so than others. Be honest about declarations of value and what is contained in the package. Also, realize certain items, like fruits, vegetables, plants, or seeds, may be prohibited. Learn the international shipping rules for your gift’s destination prior to sending anything.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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38 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

eco-friendly gift

music lessons and other gifts of service do not require a great deal of natural resources

ideas for ‘green’ giving

Giving eco-friendly gifts is now easier than ever before.

As more and more people are conscious of reducing their impact on the planet, the demand for environmentally conscious products and services has grown.

C

hoosing earth-friendly gifts is not only generous, but gift-givers also can rest assured they’re doing their part to safeguard natural resources for future generations. The following are some gift ideas for the ecoconscious people on your holiday shopping list.

Locally made products Locally made products make great holiday gifts. Such gifts are not produced halfway around the world, meaning they don’t contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming like products that need to be flown or driven across the globe.

Craft fairs and artisan shops are

good sources for locally made gifts, which also are a great way to support businesses in your community.

Gifts of service A massage or music or tutoring sessions are examples of gifts of service. These gifts do not require much use of natural resources,

and recipients find their personal nature very thoughtful. Gifts of service also can include tasks you do yourself for the gift recipient, rather than paying another person to handle. For example, teach a senior member of your family how to navigate their new smartphone or agree to help them shop for groceries.

Recycled goods When many people think of recycling, they tend to picture piles of discarded plastic bottles, glass jars and aluminum cans.

While the end product of many of these recycled pieces is new cans, bottles and jars, recycled materials also can be turned into new and unique pieces. Trivets and spoon rests made from recycled and melted wine bottles make for clever and attractive gifts. Recycled fire extinguishers have been turned into vases, and you can even find bike parts that have been used to make wind chimes and belts if you know where to shop.

Natural gifts Natural gifts are among the most environmentally friendly ones you can give. Foodies may appreciate an herb-growing kit that enables them to experiment with freshly picked basil or thyme in the kitchen, while tree-growing kits and flower seed packets are nice stocking stuffers for budding gardeners. Offer to purchase a living Christmas tree for a relative, so that he or she can plant the evergreen after the holidays have come and gone.

Antiques New, shiny gifts are not the only ones that have appeal. Gifting a sentimental piece of family history is an earth-friendly way to share the holidays. Pass down a cherished piece of jewelry or, if you do not have anything in your own collection, browse antique shops for items that have interesting histories.

The holiday season is often a time of excess, but giving doesn’t have to be detrimental to the environment. Givers can seek out earth-friendly gifts and share even more this time of year.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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40 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

local events

For complete details and a preview visit ShadrackChristmas.com

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Date: November 7, 2014 Contact: Josh Hawk Phone: (937) 661-5321 josh@goaheadagency.com feedback@shadrack.com

P rese nted by

mega drivethru light showLIGHT returns LIGHTS, MUSIC, ACTION! MEGA DRIVE-THRU SHOW RETURNS www.ShadrackChristmas.com

WITH NEW DISPLAYS, MUSIC It’AND TECHNOLOGY s back, and it’s bright! Shadrack’s

Christmas Wonderland returns to the

Fletcher, NC – It’s back, and it’s bright! Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland returns to the Western North Carolina Agricultural than the snow. Like most, Santa can ride a wave, Western North Carolina Agricultural Center in Fletcher forin Fletcher anotherforseason of festive lights, Center another season of but shockingly, he can ride a friendly whale too. th night jolly tunes and a sprinkle of magic. From Wednesday, November festive lights, jolly tunes 26 and a (the sprinkle of before After adding more than double the channels to mazeFrom of lights will November glow nightly 6Thanksgiving) through December 31st, the two-mile magic.

Wednesday, 26th from its animation, this Christmas lights dreamland 10PM. Guests simply tune in their radio and watch (the thenight beauty unfold as they drive through continues to push the technological boundaries before Thanksgiving) through as well. hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing in perfect synchronization theCome see the all-new RGB animated arch December 31st, the two-mile maze of lightswith with 3,600 computerized channels on it alone. music filling their vehicle. will glow nightly from 6-10pm. Guests There is also new music to keep your spirits

simply tune in their radio and watch bright. Plus “Shadrack,” Santa’s number one As this show works its way into family traditions, it continues to add new the beauty unfold as they drivefeatures through to “wow” helper, has joined the show and will sit in as your guests, year after year. This season, catch a glimpse of how Santa ofand hisLED friends spent hundreds of thousands brilliant tour guide for the season. That little one can’t their summer vacation at the beach! Included in the section of huge displays lightsroute dancingisin aperfect synchronization wait to reveal a few tricks that have been in the featuring comical snapshots of Santa and the whole North Pole crew playing in the sand, making for many years. with the music filling their vehicle.

The a cost to experience Shadrack’s Christmas rather than the snow. Like most, Santa can ride a wave, but shockingly, he can ride s this show works its way into family Wonderland is $20 per family car or van. For an friendly whale too.

A

traditions, it continues to add new activity van, limousine or small bus the cost is features to “wow” guests, year after year. $30, and tour/school buses are $75. Rates include After adding more than double the channels to its animation, this Christmas lights dreamland This season, catch a glimpse of how Santa and his tax. Christmas Wonderland proudly supports continues to push the technological boundaries as well.

Come see the all-new RGB Toys for Tots and United Way of Asheville and friends spent their summer vacation at the beach! animated arch with 3,600 computerized channels on it alone.

There is also to County to help meet local needs.

Buncombe Included in the route is a section of huge new displaysmusic For complete details and a preview visit featuring commerical snapshotshas of Santa and thethe show keep your spirits bright. Plus, “Shadrack,” Santa’s number one helper, joined Pole crew playing in the sand, rather and will sit in as your tour guide for the season. Thatwhole littleNorth one can’t wait to reveal a few ShadrackChristmas.com tricks

that have been in the making for many years.

sticky chocolate

The cost to experience Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is $20 per family car or van. For an activity van, limousine or small bus the cost is $30, and tour/school buses are $75. Rates include tax. Christmas Wonderland proudly supports Toys for Tots and the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County to help meet local needs.

gingerbread Makes an 8-inch cake

1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted ingredients For complete details and a preview visit http://www.ShadrackChristmas.com/. butter, softened

Western North Carolina

21⁄3 cups dark molasses 1⁄2 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark 6 ounces dark chocolate (60 to 70 brown sugar, sifted (to remove lumps) percent cocoa solids), grated Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd, Fletcher, NC 28732 2 medium eggs, beaten 13⁄4 cups all-purpose flour http://www.mountainfair.org/ 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons ground ginger 2 tablespoons milk, warmed 5 ounces whole pieces preserved A pinch of salt stem ginger, drained and roughly # # # chopped extra-large crystallized ginger pieces, to scatter (optional)

Give the gift of indulgence this holiday season! One tradition that seems to have made it into many families’ holiday celebrations is indulging in delicious baked goods.

directions Preheat the oven to 325 F. grease and line the base and sides of a deep 8-inch square cake pan or 8 x 6 x 3-inch oval cake pan pan with nonstick parchment paper.

Put the molasses in a pan and heat gently until hot, but do not allow it to boil. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chocolate. stir until melted. sift the flour, ground ginger and salt together in a bowl. Add the stem ginger and toss it around in the flour until every piece is coated.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

2 Cragar aluminum mugs.

Made sometime in the 1970’s. $150 OBO. 864-834-8212

SWAT Rechargeable Tactical Police Flashlight. 500 lumen CREE LED flashlight. Anodized aluminum body. Waterproof and shockproof. Steel clip for easy carry and adjustable lanyard. Luxeon 3W LED blub with 100,000 hour life and dedicated chip. Three levels of output: high output, low output, and SOS Flash Mode. Rotating dimmer function. Anti roll design. 3.7 V rechargeable battery included. Also comes with both car and wall chargers. 30 money back guarantee! $29.99 plus shipping. 828-329-6125

Reclaimed barn lumber picture frames.

Also, doll & kids benches made from old beds.

Also, pipe lamps, and more.

828-667-4058

Hand carved one of a kind wooden statue. $1,600 or will trade for handgun of my choice or rifle.

864-675-9059

2003 Clayton Norris Mobile Home 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Master bedroom furnished, appliances, heat-pump, gas log fireplace, excellent condition. Must be moved. Hendersonville $20,900 828-685-8679

Huge Fall Sale!

New 2014 manufactured homes! 2-3 bedrooms, energy saving insulation. Set and move-in ready! Quiet, Boutique Swannanoa Community, Spectacular Views. We finance! Going fast! Call TODAY! 828-581-0429

French Bull Dog 8 months old. Brindle color with white patch on chest. Blue carrier.

Champion sired. AKC registered.

Invested over $4500.

Asking $3,000.

828-400-1788

2003 Hummer H2.

Loaded, two tone custom paint, leather heated seats, 7th seat, custom lights, many extras, 127K. Must see. Maggie Valley. $18,900 828-593-8700

Beige 2008 Club Cart electric, 48 volt system, carry-all, turf 2 model with large tilt bed, new set of 2014 batteries, new automatic charger, headlights/tail-lights, mirror, battery gauge on dash, drives great, looks good, reduced and priced for quick sale! $3695 or possible trade 864-901-3192

2011 Dutchman Lite model #295BHGS. Master bedroom, 2 bunk beds, dinette table folds into extra bed. Tub/shower combo. TV. One slide-out. Electric awning. Very clean. Never had pets in. Never smoked in. $14,900 OBO. 828-734-5976, 828-734-7375

2014 5 x 20 Utility Trailer, Brand new, never used, all lights, heavy duty, 2 3500lb axles, original price $2495 Reduced to $1995. Pulls great!

864-901-3192

Chickering Grand Piano.

1910 6’6” X 4’8” Complete restoration in 2000 with Refinished mahogany case Ivory keys Excellent condition More Photos at Iwanna.com Aiken, SC Appraised $30,000 Asking $9,500 803-642-8027

Kawasaki 2008 Prairie 360.

4WD, automatic, very clean, lightly used. Call between 12pm-3pm. $2,800 828-279-0599

1991 Pearl MLX 5 piece Pro Drum Set with rack All maple shells, Sequoia Red, heavy duty hardware, excellent condition, Humes & Berg drum-cases. More photos at Iwanna.com $1,200.

864-244-5458, 864-244-8613

2006 2 horse Sundowner 737 horse trailer, barely used, excellent condition, dressing room, & escape door, white, bumper pull.

Priced to sell. $8,500 828-683-4761, 828-777-8523

TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN ADVERTISE ON THIS PAGE call 828-274-2222 (Western North Carolina) or 864-293-7089 (Upstate South Carolina).

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42 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

gifts to keep

select gifts that will have a longer shelf life, guaranteeing more opportunities for play

kids engaged Store aisles are filled this time of year with every must-have gift retailers can advertise. Children often plead and beg for the hottest toys weeks ahead of the holidays, hoping to find their requests wrapped up come the big day.

B

ut once the gift wrap is torn away and kids have played with their presents for a day, some already grow bored with their new belongings and cast them aside.

Certain toys are not engaging enough to warrant extended periods of play - no matter what the advertisements boast.

No gift-giver wants to spend money on a present only to have it collecting dust days later.

With that said, employing these strategies can help anyone select a gift that will continue to inspire and excite children long after the holiday season has come and gone.

Do n’ t be li eve the hy pe.

It’s easy to fall hook, line and sinker for ultra-popular trendy gifts. While such gifts may have popular appeal, that does not mean they’re a perfect fit for your child. When shopping for youngsters come the holiday season, choose a gift because your child will truly enjoy it and not because it’s the trendy item of the year.

Fo cus o n t h e play factor.

Too often shoppers get caught up in toys’ appearances. Instead, think about how the toys will

work with imaginative play. The more a child can envision himself doing with a particular toy, the more likely he or she will exhibit a continued interest in that toy.

L ook fo r mi ni m al b e l l s a nd whistl es .

Kids often find toys that leave more room for imagination more interesting than toys that are loaded with gadgets. Children prefer to make up their own stories and create modes of play that are more about what they like rather than the “right” way to play or win.

C h oose g i f t s t hat g r ow.

Shoppers want to select gifts that are age-appropriate for children so they will be safe during play time. But shoppers also should look for toys and activities that can be modified and grow with the child as he or she ages. A game that gets progressively harder through levels or a toy set that can be supplemented as kids grow older may make good gifts. Musical instruments also can grow with a child, as the instruments become easier to master with practice.

Fi g u r e o ut t h e c h il d ’s in t e r es t s .

Toys that cater specifically to a child’s interests will be the most warmly received. It may take going the extra mile to find a gift that matches a child’s interest rather than picking up the first trendy gift you see, but the results will be well worth it.

- Metro Creative Connection

DIY Christmas

Recycled Gift Wrap

Brown paper tied with twine or ribbon is inexpensive and can easily be recycled after use. Use leftover cloth to save on gift tags as well.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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44 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

gift ideas for the special seniors in your life With lifetimes of experiences and seemingly everything they could ever want or need in life already at their disposal, seniors can be difficult to shop for come the holiday season. Many even insist that their family members save their money and not buy them anything for the holidays.

B

ut if the thought But if the thought of Grandma or Grandma not having something to open come the holidays is simply unacceptable, consider the following gift ideas.

Act ivi ty Ass istance Devi c es The realities of getting older often mean the body slows down and activities may not be as easy as they used to be. Many active seniors are not ready to live sedentary lives, nor should they be forced to do so. Plenty of products exist that can make life easier and more comfortable for older adults.

Television amplifying headphones are one product that can be a great fit for seniors, particularly those having difficulty hearing their televisions. The headphones amplify the sound of the programming without disturbing others in the room, and many such headphones even allow users to mute their televisions. This feature is perfect for someone who likes to watch TV while a spouse is sleeping or reading in the same room.

Other devices that can make life easier for seniors include magnifying products or bookholders. In addition, gel seat cushions can take pressure off of the spine in the car or at home.

Fo od Food is always a handy gift because it doesn’t take up much room and can be enjoyed at a recipient’s leisure. Perhaps there is something the senior in your life used to enjoy as a child but now finds hard to come by. A search of the Internet may uncover that special treat. You may be able to ship a specialty soft drink or favorite cookie that is not available in a nearby store.

Otherwise, ask a store manager if a particular item that’s not in stock in the store can be a special order.

Photos What grandparent does not enjoy looking at his or her family members? Computer-savvy men

find a special gift to please an elderly family member this holiday season and women can use photo software to design personalized photo books, calendars, mugs, and other photo-related gifts. Just about anything can be emblazoned with a photo, including tote bags and pillows.

Another idea is to collect old photos and compile a memory book. Scan the images so they are preserved digitally and then print out the images in a book that includes the family history.

Tim e Seniors who truly do not want or need anything probably will likely jump at the opportunity to spend time with loved ones. Treat a friend or family member to a meal out or simply spend a few hours chatting at his or her home.

Sometimes the company of a new face and good conversation is the ideal gift.

- Metro Creative Connection

DIY Christmas

Felt Tree Ornament

Using a cookie cutter as a stencil, trace the shape twice onto green felt sheets. Cut out and sew half way, filling with cotton, and finish sewing the other half. Attach buttons and a ribbon for a tree-worthy ornament.

- Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

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holiday shopping

how to establish gift

spending limits As the cost of living continues to rise, holiday shopping also has become much more expensive in recent years, and it can be easy for shoppers to overextend themselves financially come the holiday season.

A

ccording to a recent Gallup poll, the average American plans to spend around $790 per holiday season, although many go above and beyond that amount.

Starting off the new year in debt is a recipe for stress, which can

have negative repercussions for the rest of the year.

In addition to overspending during the holiday season, many people stretch themselves thin on Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. One way to make shopping

more manageable is to establish spending limits that dictate how much each family member can spend on each gift he or she buys.

It is important to exercise tact when approaching the subject of gift limits. Discuss the topic with friends and family members with whom you usually exchange gifts long before the holiday season.

Agree on a reasonable amount of money each person will spend on gifts. If necessary, ask everyone to write down a figure and then determine the average, using that figure as your spending limit.

Establishing a spending limit makes it easier for every family to afford their holiday purchases.

If there are six people on your

shopping list and you’re spending $50 per person, you know to allocate $300 for gifts. Saving and budgeting can be adjusted accordingly.

When no such limit is established, you may go overboard to compensate, even if you cannot afford to do so.

Another way to save money is to suggest giving the gift of experiences rather than tangible and potentially costly gifts. For example, take a loved one out for dinner or suggest going on vacation together to make better use of your collective funds.

A well-timed extended family vacation in lieu of gift exchanges may alleviate the stress of

spending limits can help individuals avoid overspending the holiday season, much of which can be traced to holiday spending.

Establishing a gift-giving strategy and budget for each person to work with can make for a more peaceful holiday season by freeing up time to spend with loved ones and placing the focus on family instead of shopping.

- Metro Creative Connection

46 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

5 great gifts for the

family 4 foodie

The best holiday gifts are often those that encourage their recipients to pursue a passion or favorite hobby. Tickets to a ballgame might be right up a sports fan’s alley while the family globetrotter would no doubt love a contribution to his or her travel fund.

W

hen gifting the family foodie, that one person who loves to cook or simply can’t get enough of his or her favorite cuisines, shoppers have a host of options at their disposal to ensure this holiday season brings a smile to their favorite foodie’s face.

1

S pic e r ack Few home cooks can get by without a vast selection of spices, so a spice rack that includes all the essential spices makes perfect sense for the family foodie. Some spice racks even come with several years’ worth of free spice refills, so do your homework and find one that will have your friend or family member spicing things up for years to come.

2

C ook ing lesso ns Cooking lessons can be a great way for men, women and even children to cultivate their love for food. If your friend or family member prefers a specific type of cuisine, then find him or her cooking lessons where he or she can learn how to prepare and not just eat some favorite dishes. Cooking lessons also make a great opportunity to bond with a loved one. If you, too, want to expand your cooking horizons, buy your own lessons and go with your friend or family member.

S e r vi n g d i s h es Many foodies not only love to eat but also love to serve up their favorite foods to family and friends. If your friend or family member has played host to guests many times in the past, surprise him or her with some new serving dishes. You probably have a sense of their serving style already, but if you don’t, make a mental note the next time you visit or simply buy them a gift card so they can buy whichever dishes they need to make their next soiree a success.

5

Wi ne r ac k A great bottle of wine completes a great meal, so why not buy your family foodie a place to store all of his or her bottles of wine? Wine racks can range from the simple, inexpensive standup models to more complex or expensive models that need to be installed. If the eventual recipient of your thoughtful gift rents rather than owns his or her home, avoid buying a wine rack that needs to be installed, as that might cause damage that will cost them some money when the time comes to move out. But if your friend or family member owns their home, then look for a wine rack that fits in with their established décor. You even can christen the new wine rack by supplementing your gift with a few bottles of your loved one’s favorite vintages.

- Metro Creative Connection

DIY Christmas

3

A ni ght ou t If your favorite foodie prefers his or her meals made by someone else, treat that friend or family member to a night out at his or her favorite restaurant. You can give a gift card to the restaurant or take this special someone out yourself and enjoy a great meal and great company to boot.

with so many potential gifts to choose from— shoppers often find foodies are fun to shop for come the holiday season

Wrap It Up!

Instead of wrapping paper or gift bags, create a wrapping someone can keep. Fill an oven mitt with kitchen gadgets, utensils, cookie cutters, and decorate with pretty ribbon for a quick and easy gift that’s sure to please.

- Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

47

holiday recipes

DIY Christmas

santa claus

strawberries

- Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Need a quick, healthy snack for Christmas entertaining? Look no further! This fruit appetizer is quick and easy, and a great activity for the kids!

ingredients 1 lb large strawberries 1 pkg (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened 4 tbsp powdered sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

directions

Rinse all strawberries, cut off the tips (enough for a hat), and set aside. Mix remaining ingredients in a bowl and add cream cheese mixture to a piping bag.

Reassemble and decorate according to photo. Refrigerate until serving.

48 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

fun decorating

the many ways to greeting cards

recycle

The Greeting Card Association says Americans purchase some 6.5 billion greeting cards every year. Of those, around 1.6 billion are Christmas cards. Exchanging cards is a great way for people to show their loved ones that they’re thinking about them, and such cards make for festive ornaments to display around homes. But when the holiday season ends, recycling those cards into other items can make good use of the paper resources and turn what’s normally a single-use item into an enduring trinket.

Turn this year’s cards into next year’s gift tags. Cut out circles, rectangles or any shape you desire.

Otherwise, visit the scrapbooking aisle of your favorite craft store and purchase a paper punch to make easy work of cutting those shapes.

2 Transform a greeting card into 1

a mini puzzle for a youngster.

3 Glue silly characters from Christmas cards onto a sheet of magnet. Then use these magnets for decorations next year.

4 Frame favorite cards so their messages can endure year after year.

5 Turn a beautiful card into

a keepsake. Use a decoupage medium to attach a card to a ceramic or wood backing. Coat with a polyurethane top coat to protect it.

6 Use greeting cards to make wine charms for holiday entertaining. Guests can keep track of their glasses with ease.

7 Use cut-outs of cards to improve the appearance of plain gift wrap or bags.

8 Insert cut rounds of greeting cards into the inside of can lids to create crafty ornaments.

9 Make a paper Christmas tree from cutouts on greeting cards.

10 Encourage kids to make a photo collage from the cards they like. Mount their efforts on poster board and save for next year.

11 Donate used cards. St. Jude’s Ranch recycles greeting cards by reselling them to help fund programs.

- Metro Creative Connection

easy ideas for holiday

wreaths Shopping is a big part of the holiday season, when families and friends gather to reconnect and exchange gifts. While the popularity of shopping online has grown, such practices are not always eco-friendly or timely, as gifts bought online must be packaged and shipped, wasting valuable resources and time that last-minute shoppers may not have.

T

he benefits of shopping locally go beyond convenience and the chance to reduce your carbon footprint. The following are a few ways that shopping locally this holiday season can directly benefit your community and the people who call it home. “say c heese ” w r e at h Purchase a premade evergreen wreath or wrap boughs of pine around a wreath frame to make your own. Glue or tie on small wooden frames with photos of the family to the wreath. Fill in the barren spots with small bows and ornaments. fru itf ul wre at h Instead of an evergreen wreath, create something festive and edible. Fruit and vegetables in vibrant colors can be used to fashion a wreath. Use picks or wire to attach oranges, lemons, limes, clementines, and any other produce desired to a foam wreath. Use leaves to fill in sparse areas and a thick ribbon to hang the wreath. hol ly vin e w re at h Purchase a plain grapevine wreath and decorate it with sprigs of holly leaves and stems with berries. Simple and festive, this wreath should take only a few minutes to make and then hang. metall ic w re at h Add a glamorous touch to an evergreen wreath with faux fruit and pine cones that you paint with glimmering metallic colors.

Intersperse items in gold, copper and silver for an eye-catching piece that can adorn any spot in your home. Add a few twinkling lights to reflect off of the metallic elements to add even more appeal. bel ls or gla ss or na m e n t w re at h Use flexible wire to string a wreath of metal bells or glass ornaments together in a ring shape. Bells not only look nice but also lend a gentle twinkling sound anytime the door is opened. flo ral wreat h Make a fresh flower wreath from a florist’s wreath and fresh blooms. Soak the foam wreath in water according to the packaged directions. Trim flower stems (carnations are durable) and insert the stems into the wreath. Attach a bow to the bottom of the wreath and then hang. This is one wreath that is best displayed the day of the festivities because it has a short shelf life.

Cin nam on w re at h This wreath looks beautiful and gives off that quintessential holiday aroma. Begin with a foam wreath and wrap with a two-inch wide ribbon to cover. Use hot glue to secure cinnamon sticks all around the wreath. For more color, add sprigs of holly, bows or mistletoe.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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50 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping

a quick guide to giftgiving

following a few guidelines on gift-giving etiquette can help to make the holidays even happier

etiquette

Deciding on and paying for holiday gifts can be a challenge under the best circumstances. But then there are the inevitable “sticky situations” that can leave the most experienced gift-givers scratching their heads. In the hopes of dodging major gift gaffes this holiday season, here are eight tips for gracious giving and receiving.

• Review your gift list each year to determine if any relationships have changed and require a shift in your gift-giving plan.

• Don’t ask non-family members on your gift list what they would like. This not only spoils the surprise, but puts pressure on

recipients to gauge how much you want to spend and requires them to get you something in return.

• Don’t feel obligated to match what others spend. Buying gifts based on what others spend is both unnecessary and can lead to excessive expenditures.

• For workplace gifts, adhere to the company’s policies and make sure that gifts are given out of appreciation, not expectation.

• Including a gift receipt is a good idea and avoids potentially awkward situations when an item doesn’t fit or doesn’t work.

• Give holiday tips to those individuals whose service you count on throughout the year, such as hairstylists, babysitters, dog walkers, etc. An easy rule of thumb for holiday season tips

is to double the usual tip. For household employees, give one week’s pay.

• If someone surprises you with a gift, the best bet is to respond honestly. Let the giver know that you are surprised, touched, and appreciative as well as a bit embarrassed that you don’t have a gift in return. Then let it go and add his/her name to your gift list for the following year.

• Don’t arrive at holiday gatherings empty-handed. A

small gift, bottle of wine, or contribution to the evening’s edibles is the right way to thank your hosts for their invitation.

• Acknowledging gift givers is a must, but formal, written thank you cards are optional.

While handwritten notes are always preferable and greatly appreciated, e-mails are increasingly acceptable — especially for young people.

• Regifting is now considered a (mostly) acceptable practice, as long as it’s done thoughtfully, tastefully and within the following guidelines: - The regifted item should not be homemade or made especially for you.

- The item should be new, unused, and in its original packaging, along with instructions.

- Be sure to remove all previous wrapping and gift tags.

- Don’t regift to friends or family members who have a reputation for returning things they don’t like. You don’t want to be asked for a gift receipt.

- Make certain that the original giver and the new recipient will never cross paths.

DIY Christmas Peppermint Punch

Ingredients: 1 qt. peppermint ice cream, softened, 2 qt. eggnog, and 2 qt. gingerale Directions: Place ice cream in punch bowl.

Pour eggnog and ginger ale over icecream. Serve immediately.

Hook a peppermint candy cane over side of cup.

Wet the outside rim of a chilled glass with water and rotate the rim through crushed candy canes for a more festive look.

- Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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52 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

did you know?

tidbits

Christmas was not declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870

Christmas to put you in the holiday spirit The holiday season has arrived, and millions of people across the globe will be celebrating Christmas with their families and friends. The following are some interesting tidbits to share with your loved ones this holiday season. · Each year, more than three billion Christmas cards are sent in the United States alone. · In 350 AD, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birth of Jesus Christ. Many historians and theologians have surmised that Christ really wasn’t born this time

of year, thanks to imagery and information from the Bible. · Christmas carols began as an English custom called “wassailing.” Individuals toasted neighbors to a long and healthy life. · Despite the common tale that three wise men paid homage to baby Jesus, the Bible never

specifically calls out a number.

Similarly, there’s no specific indication that they visited the infant Jesus. Their visit may have occurred when Jesus was older. · Santa Claus’ modern look was inspired by writings from The Knickerbockers of New York and imagery from Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Moore denied authoring the famous poem for 15 years after it was published anonymously, feeling the poem was beneath his talents. · Santa has his own official postal code. It’s H0 H0 H0. · The song “Jingle Bells” was originally written for

Thanksgiving and not Christmas.

People loved it so much that the lyrics were changed to fit Christmas. · Christmas trees typically grow for 15 years before they’re cut and sold. This means the trees sold today were likely planted in 1999. · Before turkey, the traditional Christmas meal served in England was a pig’s head and mustard. · Male reindeer tend to shed their antlers in the winter. This means Santa’s reindeer are likely female. · Christ may have been born in a cave rather than a manger.

According to the gospel of Luke,

the shepherds that helped find shelter for Mary to give birth kept their flock in a cave. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is built over a cave called the Grotto of the Nativity, where Jesus is believed to have been born. · Many people may be less inclined to stand under mistletoe waiting for a kiss if they knew what “mistletoe” means in the ancient Germanic language.

It literally means “dung on a twig,” for the bird who eats the berries and then leaves seeds in droppings to propagate new plants. · Each holiday season, PNC Wealth Management calculates the costs of the gifts in the song, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The price index for the gifts went from $12,673 in 1984 to more than $24,000 in 2011. The most expensive gift is the swimming swans.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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54 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

energy-efficent

holiday home

Create an home for the holidays

Decorative lights can consume a considerable amount of energy.

Scale back or invest in LEDs, which are more energy-efficient lights.

‘Tis the season to be festive, and that usually means stringing up hundreds of twinkling lights to create a welcoming glow on dark winter nights. Some people view the holiday season as their chance to go all out with regard to decorating their homes with an abundance of lights, inflatable lawn ornaments and maybe even some mechanical figures.

W

hile these decorations certainly may be symbols of the season, it’s easy to forget just how much energy and resources they consume. A typical strand of lights uses around 300 watts of electricity. Multiply those figures by the dozens of strings of lights people use and it’s easy to see how quickly energy usage can add up.

In addition to lights, lit candles, animated dolls, wreaths, trees, and scores of imported ornaments contribute to the energy consumption per household. Even so, environmentally conscious individuals need not skip the holiday décor and entertaining.

Fortunately, there are various ways to be energy efficient with holiday décor this season. · Switch to LED lights. While a standard string of 50 lights consumes 300 watts, LED sets only consume four watts. This not only saves energy, but also considerable amounts of money over the holiday season. · Use fiber-optic decorations.

Fiber optic items are lit by one light. The illumination carries through the fiber optic cables to the entire decoration. · Use a power strip and timer.

Plug decorations into a power strip (be sure to follow the recommended power load for safety) and hook everything up to a timer so lights are not on when no one can see them. · Check light strands. Always inspect lights for frayed wires and any damage. Frayed lights are less efficient and pose a considerable safety risk.

· Enhance decorations. Use mirrors and reflective ornaments to give the appearance of more lights without actually adding more. · Turn off ambient lighting.

Christmas tree lights or the lights framing a picture window should be sufficient to light up a room.

Keep lamps and overhead lighting off while the tree is lit to save money and energy. · Lower the thermostat. When entertaining, turn the thermostat down a few degrees. Having extra people in your home will raise the temperature. Similarly, heat generated by the oven and other cooking appliances can warm up a home. Don’t waste energy by keeping the heat turned on high. · Invest in rechargeable batteries. According to Energy Quest, 40 percent of all batteries are purchased during the holiday season. To power those many gifts and devices, use rechargeable batteries which can be used again and again. · Change your cooking practices. Smaller appliances use less energy. Put those toaster ovens, slow cookers and electric fryers to good use. Only use the oven if you are cooking a large meal. · Wait until the dishwasher is full. Pack in the dishes from holiday meals, and only run the dishwasher when it is full. · Reuse items whenever possible. Many items around the house can be put to good use as decorations, holiday servers or gifts. Take inventory of what you have before you go out and purchase new decorations.

- Metro Creative Connection

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More Ideas & Shopping Advice 2014 Iwanna.com

Local Events Calendar p.68

before

things to consider this holiday season

buying

fees. The following are a handful of things shoppers should consider before making any purchases this holiday season. r estock ing fe es

Few holiday shoppers can resist a great deal. Whether it’s heavily discounted merchandise on As thoughtful as holiday gifts Black Friday or last-minute sales for shoppers who procrastinate, there are deals to be had may be, many are ultimately from the start of the holiday season until its unofficial end sometime around New Year’s Day. resturned. Recipients may

B

ut not all deals are what they seem. Many a shopper has swiped

their card on a gift for a loved one only to find out later they overspent or didn’t read the fine

print and subjected themselves or their friends and family members to potentially costly

already have similar items at home or find a particular gift does not suit their personal

styles. Because returns are so common, shoppers should read the fine print before buying gifts to ensure their purchases are not subject to restocking fees fees if they must be returned. Restocking fees can apply to any product, but they are most often applied to electronics. A restocking fee is a charge the person returning the gift

58 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday shopping must repay upon bringing the gift back to the store or mailing it back to the warehouse.

Restocking fees often apply to items that are not returned in their original factory-sealed box, and these fees can be exorbitant, sometimes as much as 20 percent of the cost of the product. So before buying that big-ticket television or appliance, holiday shoppers should ensure the item’s recipient will not be subject to a considerable fee if he or she decides to return the gift. eX tend e d war ra n ti e s Many items come with manufacturer warranties that cover damaged items for a predetermined period of time. But many shoppers want to go the extra mile and buy extended warranties that protect the products for longer periods of time. While that’s good in theory, studies from Consumer Reports have shown that products rarely break within the time period covered by extended warranties, meaning shoppers are simply buying a false sense of security they’re unlikely to ever use.

When considering an extended warranty, first research the product you want to buy by reading customer reviews of the product on popular sites such as Amazon.com. Such sites can offer valuable insight

with regard to how reliable products are. If multiple reviewers note that a given product has never given them a reason to reconsider their purchase, then you likely don’t need an extended warranty.

If you still want the extra protection, read the fine print of the extended warranty so you know just what it does and does not cover. r et u r n p o li c ie s Because so many gifts are returned once the holidays have come and gone, it’s important to understand a retailer’s return policy before buying a gift for a friend or family member. In-store purchases may be subject to different return policies than items bought online, which may need to be returned via the mail, a potentially costly expense for the gift’s recipient depending on the size of the gift. Try to shop only at stores with flexible, consumerfriendly return policies so your friend or family member does not have to jump through hoops just to return the gift.

Resisting a holiday deal can be difficult. But shoppers should first read the fine print before making any purchases so they can rest easy knowing they made the best decision possible.

-Metro Creative Connection

2014

holiday toy predictions

Parents ofen find themselves waiting in long lines to snag the hottest toys for children’s holiday gifts. Shoppers arrive at retail stores in droves to grab the newest video game consoles or must-have dolls or action figures.

F

rom Cabbage Patch Dolls of the 1980s to the Elmo craze of the 1990s, every generation seems to have its own “must-have” holiday gift. This year, holiday shoppers may want to start shopping early if they hope to land any of the following items that figure to be this year’s hot toys. “ froZen ”-t hem ed toy s Mega-retailer Walmart predicts that toys inspired by the smash hit film “Frozen” will continue to be hot commodities this holiday season. To meet demand, the retailer already is stocking up on the popular characters and other products banking on the popularity of the film. If the special girl in your life is still enamored with all things “Frozen,” it’s a smart bet to start your holiday buying early this year.

disney Frozen Musical light up dress - elsa

“ hun ger ga mes ” athl eti c i tem s Fans of the “Hunger Games” trilogy, be it the books, movies or both, are familiar with lead character Katniss’ prowess with a bow and arrow. Bows inspired by the movie are in demand and will appeal to both girls and boys testing their archery skills. b eat s by d r. dr e Music-lovers still consider these headphones must-have items. They’re especially prevalent among the teen market.

Available in a variety of colors, users can coordinate their Beats headphones with their clothing or accessories.

beats by dr. dre Mixr On-ear Headphones

l ego mi nec raf t It was only a matter of time before Lego got in on the action of one of the hottest games to sweep the Internet and video game console world. Minecraft is a digital building game that has enthralled gamers of all ages. Now Minecraft enthusiasts can recreate on-screen worlds in tangible Lego versions.

X eno Xeno is a “friend-toy” that is neither robot nor doll, but an interactive pet. Made from nontoxic elastic material and including eight sensors, the creature is a moving, reacting companion. Xeno even can dance to music. And parents will love that Xeno does not need to be taken for walks. t een age mu tan t n inJa t urt les On the heels of summer blockbuster inspired by these gifted turtles, fans of the weapon-swinging shelled warriors will certainly want to surround themselves with all things turtle, so expect to see plenty of movie-inspired gifts on store shelves this season.

The holiday season is on the horizon, and it’s never too early to begin shopping for the toys and games experts predict will be this year’s must-have items.

-Metro Creative Connection

leGO Cuusoo Minecraft building set

teenage Mutant ninja turtles ninja leonardo Plush

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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holiday shopping

great gifts for

say happy holidays wherever you are

film fans

The phrase “Happy Holidays” is uttered millions of times across the globe between the end of November and the beginning of January. But even if you find yourself in a nonEnglish-speaking country this holiday season, you can still pass along this popular greeting thanks to the following translations.

Some people can’t wait to get their hands dirty in the kitchen and try out a new recipe, and some are movie buffs who can’t seem to get enough of their favorite films. For the latter, a holiday gift that plays to their passion for the big screen can make the season that much more special. The following are a handful of gift ideas that are sure to leave your loved one star-struck this holiday season.

Vin tag e movi e po s te r Many film fans adorn the walls of their homes with movie posters, so a vintage movie poster from your friend or family member’s favorite film makes a great gift. Go the extra mile and have the poster custom framed so it’s ready to be hanged on the wall the moment your loved one opens his or her gift.

Su rro u nd soun d sys t e m This gift will require a considerable financial commitment, but no home theater system is complete without a state-of-the-art surround sound system.

Surround sound systems give movie buffs the full movie theater experience from the comforts of home. If a surround sound system will bust your budget, consider splitting

the cost with family members who are also looking to indulge this particular film fan’s passion.

Ou t do o r t he ate r sc reen For film buffs who miss the glory days of drive-in movie theaters, consider a portable outdoor movie theater screen.

Such screens are large enough to entertain the whole family, whether it’s a backyard movie night on a warm summer evening or during a camping trip when film fans can relax under the stars and watch their favorite films. Screens won’t be too useful without a projector, so make sure your loved one already has a projector or suggest a family member purchase the projector and then present both gifts at the same time.

Str eam ing su bscr ip tio n Few people now watch films on DVD, as streaming services have become the go-to means to watching the films of the past and present. Sign your loved one up for subscription to a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, and he or she will have instant access to thousands of films.

Da nish: Gl ade fer ie dag e

P or t u g u ese: F es ta s F eli z es

Du tch: Gel ukk ig e Vak a nt ie

R o man i an : Sa r bator i Fe r i c i te

Fr ench: joy euses fê tes

Span i sh: F el ic e s F i es ta s

Gre ek: kal és di a ko p és

Sw edi sh : T r ev li g H el g

Itali an : Buo ne F e s te

Tu r k i sh: M u tlu Tatil ler

mao ri : har are i h ar i

W el sh : g wy li au y n h a p u s

DIY Christmas

Boo ks If your favorite film aficionado is not just enamored with movies but the behind-thescenes business of making films, stuff a book or two into his or her stocking. Numerous books have been written about the nuts and bolts of moviemaking, and even more memoirs or tellalls have shared the Hollywood gossip or insider details that few film fans can resist.

- Metro Creative Connection

Marshmallow Snowmen

Thread two large marshmallows and one small marshmallow on a lollipop stick to resemble a snowman. Draw a face and buttons using decorating gel. Add a pretty ribbon for the scarf. Stick several snowmen in a candy dish filled with cotton balls for a centerpiece sure to wow!

Try using twizzlers or fruit roll-ups for an edible scarf.

-Compiled by Adalee Elkins

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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holiday shopping

For more information, visit RiverArtsDistrict.com

Find something for everyone in the district

Did you know that Asheville’s River Arts District consists of more than 180 artists’ studios, many of which are open every day all year-round?

Pay the RAD a visit this holiday season and pick up a gift for a loved one (or yourself!) while witnessing an amazing range of art being created.

river arts DR .

map courtesy of riverartsdistrict.com

ER S

IDE

Studio Entrances

Galaxy Studios

CRAVEN ST.

6

8

PAT TO

HAYWOOD RD.

RIVERLINK BRIDGE

The Wedge Studios

RIVERSIDE DR.

LYMAN ST.

Nourish & Flourish

1

Tannery Studios

David C. Stewart Fine Art

22

The Lift Studios

21

Northlight Studios

20

North

Riverview Station

From West: I-240 East to Exit 4-B (Patton Ave., Downtown), turn right onto Clingman Ave.

To Biltmore Village

1a

Gerard 14 Jonas Fine Art Clingman Café

only 1/2 mile from 12 Bones to Riverview Station NO SIDEWALKS!

OLD LYMAN ST .

Odyssey Center

T

DEPOT ST.

From East: I-240 West to Exit 4-C (Montford Ave.), turn right on Montford Ave, left on Hill St. (before Visitor Center), then left on Riverside Dr.

13

T. RTS S

From South: I-26 West to I-240: Exit 1-C (Amboy Rd.), turn left at 2nd light onto Lyman St.

AY ’S W

Warehouse Studios

LYMAN ST.

From North: 19/23 South to Patton Ave., Downtown, turn right on Clingman Ave.

NE PAY

2

12

ROBE

Wedge Brewing Co.

12 Bones

From Biltmore Village: North on Biltmore Ave., left on Meadow Rd which turns into Lyman Street

375 Depot Studios & Gallery

19

F

rom cutting edge top 10 ways to prepare Studios sculpture and paintings Working for your riVer arts & Galleries Open to traditional raku district Visit: Year Round fired pottery, and everything 1. Download and look Second through the Studio Guide in-between!

Odyssey Center Here’s a list of Saturdays the various studio buildings A Closer Look 14 2. Check out Twitter April-December and businesses in the area. and Facebook for local Visit riverartsdistrict.com for Studio Stroll happenings.

Weekends individual studio hours, a peek June 14–15 at the treasures 3. Check8–9 out the 2014 map Jonas Gerard Fine Art you can expect November to find and more info!

15 4. Think of your visit as a RAD on the web: treasure hunt: finding artists www.riverartsdistrict.com 1. Riverview Station facebook.com/river.arts.district whose hours are parallel to twitter.com/radartists 2. Warehouse Studios your own. Look for open signs 3.

Studios PinkCurve Dog Creative & open doors.

13

4. The Old Wood Co. 16 5. Cotton Mill Studios 6. Riverside Studios 7. Galaxy Studios 8.

Studios 352Hatchery Depot St. Studios 9. 95 Roberts 17 10. Phil Mechanic Studios

19

5. Bring the kids. The district is a family friendly destination with many mediums to explore, many 375 Depot Studios artists to meet and much creativity to absorb!

20

6. Do a little bit of research before you visit to make sure 12. Roberts Street Studios you get to see what you’re 13.

Odyssey 362 Depot StreetCenter Northlight Studios really interested in. Interested 14. Jonas Gerard Fine Art 18 21 in a certain medium? Check 15. Pink Dog Creative out our artist by medium 16. 352 Depot Street Studios page and jot down who you want to see.

17. Element Ceramics 11. The Wedge Studios

Pizza Pura

15

Pink Dog Creative The Junction 352 Depot St. Studios

16 17

Switchyard Studios South

Taqueria at The Grey Eagle

Roberts St. Studios

3

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT Asheville NC 28801 From Downtown Asheville: Patton Avenue West; at Clingman Ave, merge right into circle to cross Patton onto Clingman

11

GM

R I V E R

CURVE studios & garden

NA VE.

IN

To West Asheville

All Souls Pizza

10

AV E

4

Phil Mechanic Studios

AN

The Old Wood Co.

only 1/4 mile from CURVE to Cotton Mill NO SIDEWALKS!

9

To Downtown Asheville

T.

B ROA D

95 Roberts

RTS S

5

Cotton Mill Studios Yuzu Patisserie & Cafe

Directions to the

White Duck Taco Shop

Hatchery Studios

ROBE

F R ENC H

North

W. HAYWOOD ST.

Riverside Studios

CL

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Asheville NC

7

RIV

Free Parking

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

18a

BAR TLET T ST.

Element Ceramics 362 Depot St.

18 Desert Moon Designs Studios - 372 Depot Blue Kudzu Sake Co.

18.

Desert Moon Designs Studios 372 Depot Street The Lift Studios 19. Studio 375 Studios & Gallery 22 20. North Light Studios

18a

21. The Lift Studios

7. If you really want to see a particular studio or artist, call ahead and make sure they are open.

22. David C. Stewart Studios Desert Moon Designs

8. Wear comfortable shoes— most of the district is within walking distance, although you’ll find a car does come in handy to get to some of the further-out studios (and you won’t want to miss them!)

David C. Stewart Fine Art

9. Don’t worry about meters!

Parking in the district is free.

You can park on the street or in designated lots outside of studios. (Do keep an eye out for tow signs in certain areas) 10. Come hungry (and thirsty!) There are many restaurants, a few bars and a brewery all here in the district! (see list to the left)

6 Paper Gift Tags C r e at e d b y A d a l e e E l k i n s

We hope you like these gift tags as much as we do!

In fun Christmas patterns, and easy to cut out... just punch a hole and tie to your gift with string or ribbon.

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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64 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday traditions

5 holiday

films to lift your spirits

M

any families have their own unique holiday traditions, but some traditions transcend familial lines to become an integral part of many people’s holiday celebrations. One of the more popular traditions during this festive time of year is to watch favorite holiday film with family and friends.

One of the more popular traditions during this festive time is to watch favorite holiday film with family and friends. With that in mind, the following are some of the most beloved holiday movies ever to make it onto the big screen.

1

it ’ s a wo n de rfu l life

Perhaps no holiday film is more beloved than this 1946 Frank Capradirected classic. Screen legend Jimmy Stewart plays a desperate businessman contemplating suicide during the holiday season. But a guardian angel helps him realize all the good fortune in his life by showing him what life might have been like if he had never existed.

2

wh it e c h ris tm as

This 1954 song-and-dance film stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as a pair of longtime friends and ex-military men who fall in love with a sister act team that includes famous singer (and aunt to George Clooney) Rosemary Clooney. Crosby and Kaye join forces to save the failing Vermont inn of their beloved former commander.

3

m ir ac l e o n 34th s tre e t

Natalie Wood stars in this 1947 classic that follows the trial of Kris Kringle, who claims to be Santa Claus and must prove otherwise to avoid being institutionalized. Nominated for Best Picture at the 1948 Academy Awards, “Miracle on 34th Street” won three of the prestigious statuettes, including a Best Supporting Actor Oscar® for Edmund Gwenn, who played the jolly old man in the red suit.

4

bad sa n ta

Though not quite as heartwarming as many holiday films, this 2003 black comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as miserable, alcoholic con man “Willie,” who poses as a mall Santa Claus so he can rob a department store safe on Christmas Eve. But in spite of its rather raunchy take on the holiday season, the film is ultimately a story of redemption as Willie befriends a bullied youngster and begins to turn his life around.

5

a ch r is t m as ca rol

Those looking for a more traditional take on holiday films need look no further than this 1951 adaptation of the Charles Dickens novella, which tells the tale of bitter miser Ebenezer Scrooge as he is haunted by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. - Metro Creative Connection

6 Paper Gift Tags C r e at e d b y a d a l e e e l k i n s

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA速 November 18, 2014

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holiday shopping

make the most of

black

friday shopping

Black Friday is one the biggest shopping days of the year, and is often the perfect time to begin holiday shopping and save money on incredible deals.

T

housands of eager shoppers will leave their homes in the early morning hours and wait in lines at stores in order to grab the best prices of the season, while retailers will be gearing up to lure the greatest number of shoppers.

Surviving the day unscathed and arriving home with discounts galore involves having a game plan for success.

K n ow th e p r ic es of t he i t em s yo u wan t to bu y.

Scour advertisements in advance of Black Friday to gauge the regular retail prices for common items, including electronics.

Comparison shop for the best prices and make notes to help you when Black Friday arrives.

Un de r sta n d th e f i n e pr i nt of “d o or b u st er s .” Door buster sales

are meant to get shoppers into stores, where retailers hope shoppers will make additional purchases while taking advantage of advertised deals. If door buster items are all you’re looking for, read the advertisements carefully, noting the start and end time of the discounts and if there will be limited quantities. In addition, determine if there is a special return policy for sale items purchased on Black Friday.

Dr ess fo r c omf ort. Wear sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing when shopping. Leave a large purse at home and opt for something compact that can be draped securely over your shoulder and body to navigate the crowds. Keep your coat in the car or make use of a coat check service if available. Dress in layers if you will be waiting outside for stores to open. This way you can shed clothing as the mercury rises or when you get inside.

Ar ri v e toge ther bu t sh op separately. The “divide and conquer” method of shopping allows everyone in your shopping party to score good deals. Split up shopping tasks and then head to different areas of the store. Share and collect your purchases when you meet up after the rush.

Make a list a n d st i c k to i t. Buyers’ remorse come Saturday morning is common for those who have over-extended their budgets and purchased items they did not need. Know ahead of time what you plan to purchase and do not veer off course.

S cou t t he sto r es ahe ad o f t ime . Visit the stores where you plan to shop a few days before Black Friday. Learn the layout of the store and where everything is located. Try on certain clothes or read over the labels of big-ticket items you plan to buy. Knowing where items are located and having all of your information in advance will cut down on the time it takes to find items on Black Friday.

D on’ t overlo ok n ont rad iti on al stor es.

Many other stores, from pharmacies to supermarkets, stock items apart from food and toiletries. Consider taking advantage of their sales for some Black Friday deals.

Park of f c am p u s.

P rom ptly sto r e r ece ipt s. Designate a folder or envelope for all of your receipts to keep them organized and handy.

make black friday shopping as smooth and fast as possible by following some helpful tips Pac k a sm al l sn ac k a nd dr i nk . It’s easy to become dehydrated and hungry waiting in long lines, which can compromise your decisionmaking abilities. Bring a snack so that you can recharge your body and continue shopping.

L e av e t h e k i ds at h om e. Black Friday shopping can be stressful, and children can easily get lost or bumped around in the fray. It is safer to leave them home so you can focus your full attention on shopping.

K n ow w he n to c al l i t q ui t s . Establish a firm cut-off time for ending your shopping excursion. This way you can head home, rest and sort through your purchases.

- Metro Creative Connection

Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

holiday at home

buffet entertaining tips and timesavers Buffet-style meals are often the best option for large gatherings of friends and family. Space constraints can make it difficult to sit everyone down for a formal meal, and buffets enable guests to mingle with one another while selecting only the foods they want to eat.

B

uffet service can work any time of the day and can include both cold and hot foods if they are kept at the right temperature. Explore these other tips for entertaining buffet-style. · Present food in an easily accessible location. Place food on a table or counter that will not be in the way of foot traffic. Arrange dishes and cutlery at the head of the buffet line so guests can move in an orderly fashion as they select their food. · Tie together utensils for ease.

Group forks, knives and spoons with a cloth napkin and dish so guests can easily grab what they need for dining. · Practice food safety. Hot dishes need to be kept warm and cold dishes need to be placed on ice.

Use chafing dishes and pans in combination with your serving plates. Food should be removed if it has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours. · Experiment with meals that keep. Stews, casseroles, soups, baked pasta dishes, and similar fare can be made in advance and frozen. Thaw these dishes in the refrigerator the day before the party, then heat up foods and serve for the buffet. Prepared foods purchased at a supermarket or specialty retailer also work well for buffets. Simply purchase and then set out for even less work. · Weigh your catering options.

Catering services can make easy work of holiday hosting but not without expense. Caterers may charge by the person or by each tray of food. Some will include table settings and rolls with the price; others may not. Calculate the costs of using a caterer and weigh them against the cost of

doing the work yourself. · Use plastic utensils for hot foods. Metal spoons and forks can quickly heat up when sitting in hot serving dishes. Use plastic utensils so guests do not get burned. · Keep dressings on the side.

Salad dressings and other condiments can cause foods to wilt or

67

get soggy. Have them nearby so guests can help themselves. · Be mindful of food allergies.

Although you may have various foods available to meet the dietary needs of guests, do not place risky foods next to others.

Label food options so everyone knows what’s available. · Ask a friend to help set up.

Ask a close friend or family member to come over an hour or two early to help you set up the buffet and with any other last-minute touches. This will take some of the pressure off of you, and you

can chat and enjoy yourself before your hosting duties begin. · Frozen foods should be thoroughly wrapped. Only use freezer-safe bags and containers to store prepared foods. Otherwise you may run the risk of freezer burn or freezing, affecting the taste of the final product. Keep in mind that many desserts, such as fruit pies, also can be frozen.

It’s possible to make ahead just about everything for a holiday feast and simply thaw and reheat when the big day arrives. · Create a good side dish ratio.

Buffets should include a variety of side dishes. Select one or two main dishes and then vary the rest of the selection with rice, pasta, vegetables, or other favorite side dishes.

· Keep take-away containers on hand. You’re bound to make more food than you need, so send guests off with their own goodie bags to lighten the load on your leftovers. Encourage guests to fill up a container and take some food home with them. · Lock pets away. An open, unattended buffet can seem like paradise to a hungry cat or dog.

It’s not sanitary or particularly appealing for guests to catch a pet taking advantage of buffet fare. Keep pets in a bedroom or outside when the meal is being served.

Buffets are a fine choice for big groups because they provide variety and the chance to mingle.

- Metro Creative Connection

68 Holiday Gift Guide | IWANNA® November 18, 2014

November Christmas at Biltmore Nov 7 - January 11 More than a century ago, George Vanderbilt chose this magical season as the time to unveil his new home to family and friends. On Christmas Eve 1895, he opened Biltmore House’s doors for a regal yuletide celebration. This year’s Christmas at Biltmore promises another extravagant celebration, complete with dozens and dozens of Christmas trees, miles of ribbon, garland and lights and inspirational holiday demonstrations.

Biltmore Estate Adult $59, Youth (10-16) $29.50 biltmore.com The Polar Express November 7 - January 4 The 1¼ hour train ride departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness and a special visit to Santa at the North Pole. Enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along aboard the train. Santa will board The Polar Express™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift. Sing carols on the way back to the Depot. Bryson City Depot, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Ticket prices begin at $40 for adults and $26 for children ages 2-12, times vary. 800.872.4681 gsmr.com Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evenings November 7 –January 3 Candlelight Christmas Evenings tickets are available by reservation only, and include an evening self-guided candlelight tour of Biltmore House, next-day visit to the gardens and Biltmore Winery.

Advance reservations are required.

Biltmore Estate Adult $69/$84, Youth (1016) $34.50/$42, Children (9 & under) Free with adult admission. biltmore.com LaZoom’s Special Holiday Tour November 14–December 31 Enjoy this hilarious holiday tour of Asheville where you’ll meet a a lonesome pine tree, a traveling Gingerbread Man and possibly catch a glimpse of Santa whizzing by the bus!! Downtown Asheville Adults $$25.68, Seniors (65+) $23.54, Young Adults (13-17) $19.26, Children (5-12) $16.05; times vary.

828.225.6932 lazoomtours.com National Gingerbread House Competition November 19–January 1 Contestants from across the country bring their culinary masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn this holiday season. Delight in the imagination in these sugar-and-spice creations and be swept up in the holiday spirit. The Grove Park Inn Resort Free, but $10 parking charge; MondayThursday groveparkinn.com AIR’s Taste of Asheville 2013 November 20 Asheville Independent Restaurants (AIR) brings together 40+ of the city’s most talented chefs, restaurants, wine sponsors and local brewers for an evening of food, wine and beer tasting at Asheville’s premiere culinary event. The Venue $75-$175, 7-9pm airasheville.org A Christmas Carol November 20 - December 21 The Charles Dickens’ perennial classic, A Christmas Carol comes to life on the Flat Rock Playhouse stage in a spectacular new production featuring all the classic elements with a few new twists. Flat Rock Playhouse $40, Discounts available for seniors, AAA members, military personnel, students & groups. 828.693.0731 flatrockplayhouse.org ‘Tis The Season Holiday Fair

November 21 - 23 Featuring crafters, artist, gift marketers and holiday food and wine, you will have a truly enjoyable holiday shopping experience while listening to live holiday music. Choose a fresh cut or live dug Christmas tree from the featured tree farm!

WNC Agricultural Center $4, Children under 13 Free; Friday & Saturday10am 8pm, Sunday 11am - 5pm 828.606.7097 828.606.8680 wncholidayfair.net Shadrack’s Winter Wonderland November 21 - January 5 This award winning Christmas light and music extravaganza is a two mile maze filled with hundreds of thousands of LED lights performing in perfect synchronization with the Christmas tunes playing through your car radio. WNC Agricultural Center Cars or Family Vans: $20, Activity Van or Mini Bus: $30, Limo: $30,Tour/School Bus: $75; dusk until 10 pm (later on weekends). shadrackchristmas.com Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade November 21 - January 4 Downtown Asheville’s historic Grove Arcade is a spectacular spot to enjoy the holidays and support locally-owned shops and restaurants. The Arcade will be “decking the halls” with holiday décor inside and out and once again hosting the annual National Gingerbread House Competition™ in partnership with The Omni Grove Park Inn. Come experience a Winter Wonderland full of wintery décor and gingerbread houses.

Grove Arcade Free Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 828.252.7799 grovearcade. com Biltmore Park Town Square Holiday Lighting Celebration November 21 This free event includes strolling carolers, magicians, a horse-drawn carriage, visits with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, and more! At 6:30 p.m. Santa Claus will lead a countdown to illuminate the 25 foot Christmas Tree filling Biltmore Park Town Square with over 65,000 lights. Biltmore Park Town Square Free; 6pm-8:30pm, 828.210.1660 biltmorepark.com 68th Annual Holiday Parade Home for the Holidays November 22 The holidays have officially arrived!

Celebrate by attending this fun, local event! This year’s theme is “Home for the Holidays” and Caleb Johnson, winner of American Idol and Asheville native will be grand marshal, in a float sponsored by Mission Health.. Downtown Asheville Free; 11am-2pm, ashevilleparade.org Jinglefest November 22 A stage show, featuring performances by dance and song groups from the Holiday parade, will entertain while everyone waits for Santa who will be on hand to meet, greet and have a photo taken. There will also be a meet and greet and autograph signings with American Idol winner Caleb Johnson. Inflatables and activities for the kids as well as Toys for Tots drop off boxes and a small craft/holiday market on the concourse.

US Cellular Center Free; 1-4 pm, ashevilledowntown.org Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum November 22 - January 4 Walk through a winter wonderland and experience the gardens in a whole new way! This new light show is unlike anything in Asheville. Designed with an artistic aesthetic, Winter Lights will enhance the natural beauty of the gardens and landscape. The Arboretum has collaborated with Jerry Stripling, former designer and manager of holiday decorations, special projects and events for Walt Disney World®, to create a

truly magical experience. Winter Lights will also feature music, gifts, food & beverages.

Tickets must be bought in advance. North Carolina Arboretum Adults $18, Children (Ages 5 to 11) $16, Children 4 & Under Free; 6-10pm, ncwinterlights.com A Season For Harmony November 22 Two fine choruses - Song O’ Sky & Land of the Sky - join in one great concert. Special guests: Speed of Sound--Sweet Adelines 2012 International Quartet Competition finalists. A one night a cappella extravaganza you won’t want to miss! Tuscola High School (Waynesville) 866.824.9547 songosky.org Hard Candy Christmas Arts & Crafts Show November 28–November 29 A perennial favorite for unique regional arts and crafts at great prices. 100+ potters, glass artists, wood craft, folk dolls, and hard to find Old World Santa’s and ornaments. Ramsey Center, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC Adults $4, Children 12 & Under Free, 10-5pm, mountainartisans.net Dickens’ A Christmas Carol November 28 & 29 Creator and remarkably versatile actor Jeremy Webb has re-envisioned this classic by creating a 25 character, family-friendly, one-man play with puppets for ghosts.

Webb first created the show in 2003, and while his show has never stopped evolving, the themes of redemption, charity, and the spirit of Christmas still ring through. Diana Wortham Theater Adults $35, Students $30, Children $15, Friday, 7pm; Saturday 2pm & 7pm 828.257.4530 dwtheatre.com Christmas at Connemara November 29 & December 27 Join us on Saturday morning to revel with local musicians and storytellers. Music/ storytelling will be held from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm in the garage adjacent to the Sandburg Home. Hot cider and cookies will be served. Holiday craft-making will be offered from 10am to 1pm. The house will be decorated in the simple style of the Sandburgs with poinsettias and a traditionally decorated Christmas tree from Thanksgiving until January 6th, 2015.

Connemara FREE 10:30am nps.gov/carl

the entire family! Asheville Community Theatre $12-$22; Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 PM; Sundays at 2:30 PM; 828.254.1320 ashevilletheatre.org Canton Christmas Parade December 4 Along Park & Main Street, the annual Christmas Parade will traverse Downtown Canton. Downtown Canton 6-8 pm cantonnc.com Holly Jolly Christmas in Black Mountain December 5 Spend a festive evening visiting downtown shops of Black Mountain! Performers at caboose, bottom of Cherry Street.

Various locations throughout downtown Black Mountain Free, 5pm-8pm.

828.669.2177, blackmountain.org Downtown Asheville Art District First Friday Art Walk December 5 Asheville Downtown Gallery Association invites you to visit 26 downtown venues to enjoy the fine art and craft that they have to offer. Downtown Asheville Free; 5pm8pm, ashevilledowntowngalleries.org Black Mountain Christmas Parade December 6 Application fee for participants. Call Black Mountain Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce at 828.669.2300. Downtown Black Mountain Free; 4pm blackmountain.org Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre presents The Nutcracker & The Mouse King December 5 - 6 This version of the ballet is quirky, dramatic and above all, fun. A great family event involving professional dancers with students of all ages. Wildly imaginative with colorful sets, costumes and contemporary music as well as classical.

Diana Wortham Theater Adults $25 • Children, Students & Seniors $20, Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday 2:30pm & 7:30pm 828.257.4530 dwtheatre.com

year the Festival will feature more than 300 performers who, after their stage segment, will rove throughout the Village entertaining on the streets and in the shops and restaurants. Biltmore Village Free; Friday, 5-7pm, Saturday, 11am-7pm, Sunday, 1-5pm, 828.274.8788 biltmorevillage.com Lake Julian Festival of Lights December 5-22 Light up your Holiday nights at the Lake Julian Park Festival of Lights. The road circling the park becomes a magical drive through journey through tunnels of dazzling lights.

The park is brightly lit with thousands of colored lights and over 50 animated and stationary light displays.

Lake Julian Park $5 for a car, $10 for a van and $25 for a motor coach, 6-9pm 828.684.0376 The Big Crafty December 7 The Big Crafty revives the tradition of the community bazaar, a lively celebration of handmade commerce, featuring local food, beer, toe-tapping tunes, and the fine wares of select indie artists and crafters.

Asheville Art Museum, Pack Place Free, 12-6 pm, thebigcrafty.com Brevard’s Holiday Twilight Tour December 6 Take a carriage ride down luminaire-lit streets, sing and celebrate the lighting of the community Christmas tree at the courthouse on Main Street. Enjoy delectable food, the Silvermont Festival of Trees, the Elf School (write your letter to Santa), an ice slide, and a sweet celebration of holiday magic. Immediately following the 43nd Annual Christmas Parade.Downtown Brevard Free, 4pm-8pm brevardnc.org Weaverville Christmas Parade December 13 The parade begins at the intersection of North Main Street and Dula Springs Road, travels through downtown Weaverville, and ends at the intersection of South Main and Yost Streets. Join us on Main Street along with local bands, floats, marching units, local dignitaries and of course Santa. Downtown Weaverville 1pm visitweaverville.com

Dillsboro Festival of Lights & Luminaries December 5-6 & 12-13 Experience the magic as the entire town of Dillsboro is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song! 2500 luminaries light your way to shops and studios. Horse and buggy rides available each night from 5-8 pm (cost + tips). Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa. Carolers sing and children visit with Santa at Town Hall. Downtown Dillsboro Begins at dusk, 800.962.1911 visitdillsboro. org

Christmas Candlelight Tour December 6 Experience the customs and traditions of an early 19th century Christmas in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This living history program provides a small glimpse into the Vance family’s observance of the holiday season in the 1830’s.

Zebulon B.Vance Birthplace State Historic Site 4-8pm. Adults $3, Children (6-16 years old) $1, Free for “Friends of the Vance Birthplace” members. 828.645.6706 vance@ncdcr.gov nchistoricsites.org/vance/ vance.htm

Annual Downtown Holiday Window Display Competition December 1 - 31 Every year, the Asheville Downtown Association organizes the Downtown Holiday Windows Contest. There will be about 40 businesses participating this year creating a delightful experience for everyone who walks around downtown.

Judging on December 3th Downtown Asheville FREE ashevilledowntown.org

Toe River Studio Tour December 5 - 7 About an hour north of Asheville, tucked in the lush green mountains is one of the finest collections of artists and craftsmen in the world and the acclaimed Penland School of Crafts. A unique blend of contemporary and traditional cultures. More than 100 fine artists and crafts people in every medium open their studios for a free, self-guided cultural adventure. Yancey & Mitchell Counties, Friday 12-4pm, Sat & Sun 10am5pm 828.682.7215 toeriverarts.org

A Charlie Brown Christmas December 5 - 21 A WNC Premiere! A Charlie Brown Christmas is based on the beloved annual television special with Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Sally, Linus, Lucy and the entire Peanuts gang. The musical includes the classic songs “Christmas Time is Here,” “Skating,” “Linus and Lucy” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” – with arrangements

by Vince Guaraldi. A perfect treat for

25th Annual Biltmore Village Dickens Festival December 5 - 7 A magical weekend of merriment, music and memories--all on the streets and in the shops, restaurants and galleries of Historic Biltmore Village. The stage will be continuously filled with musicians, choral groups, singers, dancers, and the Montford Park Players performing scenes from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This

The 16th Annual Montford Home Tour December 13 Explore Asheville’s oldest, most historic neighborhood comprised of Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Greek Revival and Dutch Colonial homes built in the 1890’s to 1920’s. A variety of these residences will be open for tour during this special one day event. Enjoy roving Shakespearian actors, courtesy of The Montford Park Players and feast on homemade baked goods from the kitchens of Montford residents.Montford Historic District $20, 1-5pm 828.280.1576 montfordtour.com

December Deck the Trees December 4 - 31 24 beautiful Christmas trees on display (result of decorating competition.)

Monte Vista Hotel, Black Mountain Free 6-8pm. 828.707.7615 blackmountain.org

2013 Asheville Jingle Bell Run/ Walk December 6 Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun, festive event for the whole family! This is a great way to kick off the holidays by helping others!

Participants wear their reindeer antlers and/or themed costumes, and tie jingle bells to their shoelaces and run or walk a 5 kilometer route with their team members

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local events to celebrate the season by giving. Montford Recreation Center registration fee, 8:30am - 1pm 443-738-9625 jinglebellrunasheville. kintera.org Santa on the Chimney!

December 6 & 13 How is Santa able to climb down millions of chimneys around the world in a single night? He practices, of course. Witness Santa’s daring stunt as he practices on one of the world’s largest chimneys at 315 feet tall! Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, complimentary hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities and see live critters. Chimney Rock Park, Chimney Rock, NC No additional cost with paid park admission, 11am-2pm 800-277-9611 chimneyrockpark.com Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale December 6 & 13 An opportunity for individual members and the organization to sell over-runs, discontinued stock and studio seconds in a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Choose from a variety of gift items including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. Folk Art Center 10am - 4pm. southernhighlandguild.org Chamber Music Messiah December 7 Featuring instrumentalists playing the vocal parts with organ as orchestra. Come experience this unique and beautiful performance of the Christmas portion (Part I) of Handel’s masterpiece to benefit

Homeward Bound. First Presbyterian Church 3pm 828-254-7123 pan-harmonia.org Waynesville Christmas Parade December 8 This annual event is sponsored by the Town of Waynesville, Waynesville Kiwanis Club, and the Downtown Waynesville Association.

This year’s parade theme is “Peace on Earth.” Main Street 6pm 828.456.3517 downtownwaynesville.com Hometown Holiday Jam XIV December 13 Asheville Musicians Coalition presents Hometown Holiday Jam XIV benefitting Mission Childrens Hospital and Breast Cancer Research, featuring: Mike Barnes & Friends, Marc Keller Band, Joe Lasher Jr., Sons of Ralph, Rory Kelly’s Triple Threat, Ryan Perry Band, Jack and Jim Mascari, Asheville Rock Academy presents The Patrick Dodd Band. Special Guests: Marsha Morgan, Andy Buckner, and Andrew Scotchie of The River Rats.

The Orange Peel $10 + donation of one can of food, 7pm theorangepeel.net Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 10 Moscow Ballet has been touring North America for over 20 years bringing classic Russian ballets to life. The Great Russian Nutcracker debuted to rave reviews in 1993 and continues to this day; NY Times Chief Dance Critic Alastair Macaulay, “Knockout …brimful with feeling.” The

company features award-winning and acclaimed principal dancers. New in 2014 is an authentic Russian Christmas puppet play and Masha’s magical Toy Cabinet. Thomas Wolfe Auditorium $30-$104.50, 7:00 pm 828.259.5736 uscellularcenterasheville.com Music on the Rock: A Motown Christmas December 11-4 & 18-21 Originally released in 1973, A Motown Christmas featured performance by Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Diana Ross & the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations and Smokey Robinson & the Miracles.

These unique arrangements of beloved Christmas classics like “Silent Night” and “White Christmas” featured harmonies that epitomized the Motown sound. This amazing album will come to life at Playhouse Downtown with a group of singers that are guaranteed to bring some extra joy to your Christmas season. Flat Rock Playhouse Downtown $24. 828.693.0731 flatrockplayhouse.org The Santaland Diaries December 11 - December 20 When an out of work slacker takes a job as an elf in Macy’s Santaland, his hilarious observations of shoppers and employees are much more naughty than nice. This oneman one-act play can only be described one way: crazy funny. A favorite holiday tradition is back for its 13th year in a row! Asheville Community Theatre $15; Thursdays 7:30pm; Fridays & Saturdays 7:30 & 9:30pm, ashevilletheatre.org

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol December 16 - 28 We know what happens to Scrooge, but what about his old business partner Marley?

Is he truly past redemption, or does every person deserve a chance to change, to do better? In this funny and touching holiday play, see Jacob Marley’s heroic efforts to save Scrooge’s soul – and in the process, save his own. NC Stage Company Wed - Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm 828-239-0263 ncstage.org The 38th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular!

December 4-6, 11-13, 18-20 The bawdy, bodacious, and boisterous Bernsteins are back, and they’ve got some special surprises in store for old fans and new friends! Asheville’s favorite, raunchy, screwball holiday comedy is ready to get up close and personal with audiences at the Bernsteins’ most intimate venue yet. BeBe Theatre $19.26, 7:30 pm nightly, 10 pm late shows Friday & Saturday. themagnetictheatre. org Weaverville Candlelight Christmas Stroll December 12 Enjoy the spirit of the holiday season at the Annual Candlelight Stroll in downtown Weaverville. Enjoy a charming smalltown Christmas atmosphere for both residents and visitors with music, horse

and buggy rides, shopping, Santa and more.

Downtown Weaverville Free; 6pm-9pm visitweaverville.com/candlelight 25th Annual Warren Haynes Christmas Jam December 13 For the past 26 years, Warren Haynes has coordinated his annual Christmas Jam. Like a family reunion, the annual, one-of-a-kind, semi-structured marathon of music brings together old friends on stage and in the audience for one of the country’s greatest live events. Featuring Vince Gill, Gov’t Mule, Billy & The Kids, Hard Working Americans, The Revivalists and Jason Isbell with his band & additional artists to be announced soon.

U.S. Cellular Center, Downtown Asheville $60-$120; 7pm. xmasjam.com Cool Craft Holiday Market December 12th (5-8pm) December 13th (10am-6pm) December 14th (12-4pm) HandMade in America & Blue Ridge Food Ventures bring a diverse group of artists, artisan food makers, and natural products.

The market will be full of handmade craft, food, and natural product artisans showcasing their high-quality products and provide the perfect opportunity for shoppers to buy their last minute, locallymade gifts for the holidays! Handmade in America handmadeinamerica.org Asheville Ballet presents The Nutcracker December 12 (7:30pm) December 13 (2:30 & 7:30pm) December 14 (2:30pm) America’s favorite holiday tradition performed by Asheville’s only professional adult resident ballet company is a fulllength production featuring all the classical beauty and all the bells and whistles of the original Russian production over 100 years old. Diana Wortham Theater Adult $50/$35/$25, Students $15, Children 12 & under $15, dwtheatre.com Town of Fletcher’s Annual Christmas Parade December 13 The theme for the 2014 Christmas Parade is “The 12 Days of Christmas.” Hwy 25 between Old Airport Road & Town Hall 10:30am 828.687.0751 fletcherparks.org A Night Before Christmas December 13 A Family Holiday Tradition downtown. Live music & caroling, Santa, old-fashioned wagon rides, storytelling, poetry, luminaries & more. Shops, galleries & Restaurants remain open. Downtown Waynesvillle 6-9pm. downtownwaynesville.com Asheville Symphony: Classical Christmas December 14 Featuring Bach’s Christmas Oratorio as well as other classical Christmas favorites performed by The Asheville Symphony.

Thomas Wolfe Auditorium Adult $22-62, Student $11-$43, 3pm 828.254.7046 ashevillesymphony.org Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents The Nutcracker December 17 (6:30pm) December 18 (4:30pm & 7:30pm) December 19 (4:30pm & 7:30pm) Asheville’s classical Ballet Conservatory breathes new life into every child’s favorite holiday tradition, emphasizing elegant ballet on a mysterious December’s eve. Share an affordable family holiday experience with the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville.

Diana Wortham Theater Adults $20/$25, Seniors (65+) $12/$15, Student $12/$15, Child (12 & under) $12/$15. dwtheatre.com A Swannanoa Solstice December 21 A tapestry of joyful and thoughtful seasonal reflection beautifully woven from the mountains’ Appalachian, Scots-Irish and world influences. Special guest musicians, storytellers, dancers & more.

Diana Wortham Theater $40, Student $35, Child $15; 2 & 7pm. dwtheatre.com

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