Shopping means different things to different people. For some, it's retail therapy. For others, it's something to check off the to-do list. But as long as we have to shop, be it for fun or necessity, it's nice to have a selection of boutique businesses catering to our quirky, individual wants and needs.
Happily, the independently owned, brick-and-mortar specialty shops in and around Asheville offer a wide range of products. Clothing, home goods, furnishings, foods, gift items, decor, toys, desserts, fine wine, paper goods, jewelry and more can be found. Even better, the proprietors of these stores are not only invested in the local community, they're a wealth of knowledge when it comes to picking out the perfect something for that hard-to-buy-for someone.
So grab a reusable bag and make a list — or just come prepared to browse. Xpress Speciality Shops special issue has plenty in store.