The Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville are typically breathtaking this time of year, painted in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
Our hearts are heavy for those who have lost everything. We believe in the strength of our community and the enduring spirit of the Appalachian region. As we absorb visible scars of nature’s fury, we remain hopeful that recovery will come, stronger than before.
Your support matters. Keep the conversation going about the urgent need for help in the hardest hit areas of Western North Carolina.
#appalachia #helene #asheville #wncstrong
Three weeks after Hurricane Helene, our surroundings still feel foreign, and the weight of this disaster is heavy.
Our hearts are with the families enduring unimaginable loss, and we’re reminded that recovery isn’t just about rebuilding structures but healing lives.
We are forever grateful for the tireless efforts from those to restore, rescue, and recover.
#asheville #helene #ashevillestrong #wncstrong #appalachia #nc #wnc
It’s been so hard being on the outside looking in at the devastation back home these last few days.
It was supposed to be a weekend of great times at @intlbluegrass, being nominated for an IBMA award for Music Video of the Year with @sistersadiemusic. Attending the awards ceremony, attending events, listening to amazing musicians.
Instead, my fellow WNC friends & neighbors in attendance and I all felt a deep sense of worry—as we couldn’t get a hold of hardly anyone, and still can’t—sorrow, and immense sadness as we watched events unfold from the other side of the state, while others were literally hanging on for dear life.
My buddies from home @unspokentraditionbluegrass took to the stage today at the World of Bluegrass festival in downtown Raleigh and fought back tears and emotions as they forged through a heavy set of songs that really paint the picture the delicate landscape of Appalachia.
“Weary Town” written by John Cloyd Miller of @zoeandcloyd, a friend and neighbor, really took on a new meaning today, and I heard people crying. It warranted a standing ovation early in the set.
Hopefully anyone that has read this far and listened to this song can take a little bit of comfort from the insurmountable loss and heavy hearts. It’s going to be a long road and we’ll get down it together.
-Bob
Nestled in the picturesque mountain towns of Tryon, Columbus, and Saluda, the “First Peak of the Blue Ridge” is not just about rugged, breathtaking landscapes—it’s also a thriving hub for art and culture. From charming galleries and unique shops to world-class music festivals and talented craft artists, there’s something for everyone passionate about the arts. Here, you’re not just a visitor, you’ll feel like a part of a community that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship. @blueridgeheritage
Don’t miss the Cherokee Heritage Festival this Saturday, September 21 in Hayesville, NC. This annual event is held every third Saturday of September on the grounds of the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, and is a celebration of Cherokee crafts, dance, stories and more.
🎥: @mountainwaterfilms
Attention DMOs, TDAs, and Regional Tourism Partners!
Fall is upon us and there’s no better time to showcase the breathtaking beauty of Appalachia. The vibrant foliage provides the perfect backdrop to promote seasonal events, scenic tours, and community connections. We’re currently offering limited partnership opportunities to showcase this unique season in our region.
As a destination branding filmmaking studio, we collaborate with tourism boards, hotels & resorts, cultural institutions, non-profits, and regional stakeholders to craft cinematic videos that capture the heart and soul of Southern Appalachia... Our unique beauty, rich culture, and the stories of our small towns.
Our custom services include:
Seasonal campaign videos
Short-form documentary storytelling
Event promotions
Web series
Social media content
Behind-the-scenes / Day-in-the-life films
Don’t let this season pass without making an impact! Get in touch with Mountainwater Films today to discover how we can help authentically promote your destination this fall.
It’s an honor to partner with @westernwomensbusinesscenter and @carolinasmbiz to recap their annual conferences. This year’s gala was special as the WWBC celebrates 10 years of helping women and minority owned businesses in #WNC.
If you’re a small business owner or new entrepreneur looking for resources to start or grow your business, check out the WWBC, CSBDF, as well as the @abtechsmallbusinesscenter.
Earlier this month, over 300 cyclists gathered in the picturesque far west region of North Carolina for the @cyclenc Mountain Ride event! Riders had the opportunity to explore some of the most breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path routes, weaving through the charming back roads in Murphy, Hayesville, Brasstown and the historic @johnccampbellfolkschool. From challenging climbs to serene valleys, this event showcased the hidden gems of our beloved Appalachian landscape. @visitnc
THROWBACK: This special moment was captured backstage at the 11th annual The Fiddlers of Madison County in Marshall, NC on March 11, 2017. This video features the late Bobby Hicks, Ralph Lewis, Mark Kuykendall, along with some friends and fellow musicians. It’s a simple, heartfelt jam that brings together some of bluegrass music’s most respected figures. A genuine piece of Appalachian culture and a tribute to the enduring spirit of bluegrass.
It was an honor to interview the late great Bobby Hicks back in 2018 at @zuma_coffee_marshall. He talked about his incredible journey through a life devoted to music. From his early days with Bill Monroe’s band to winning multiple Grammy Awards, Bobby reflects on the highs and lows of a career that shaped the landscape of bluegrass music. We get a glimpse of the dedication, passion, and love for the craft that made Bobby a true icon. This video is a tribute to his enduring legacy and the rich musical heritage of Madison County.
#bobbyhicks #madisoncountync #marshallnc
The Community Jam is a special event held Thursdays at @thecrownbrasstown in partnership with the @johnccampbellfolkschool. This is a wonderful way to enjoy traditional music and dance of the region, while savoring delicious bites. #brasstown #northcarolina
Thrilled to partner with @blueridgeheritage and @visitncsmokies to create a series of videos that promote the rich heritage of music and dance in Haywood County.
This project for the @blueridgemusictrails started last summer and covers various events, concerts, and artists around Waynesville, Canton, Maggie Valley and more.
This video features Zeb Ross of @jcreekcloggers, a regular dance group performing at the Waynesville Street Dance.
The wisdom of Appalachia's ancestors lights our way, guiding us to tread thoughtfully into tomorrow.
Learn from the enduring landscapes of Appalachia, where resilience is carved by rivers and mountains. #appalachia #spiritofresilience #exploreappalachia #sustainabletourism
