The word ‘perfume’ is derived from the Latin “per” (through) and “fumare” (to smoke) because, long before the use of modern techniques, the first perfumes were obtained by burning woods, resins and other complex mixtures. Humans have always been exposed to smells. We can suppose that it was around a fire that our earliest ancestors discovered what smells they could produce by throwing herbs, leaves or twigs of different plant species into the flames. The use of perfume is contemporary, therefore, with the development of the first towns and its purpose was mainly religious, to communicate with the gods and enable the dead to join the hereafter, particularly for the Egyptians. - From “Fragonard, 80 Years of Passion”.

I WAS BROWSING IN THE SPA BOUTIQUE at Old Edwards today, picking up some Shower Gel by Molton Brown, the scrumptious signature bath and body line of products that Old Edwards guests enjoy during their stay. While at the boutique, I spotted a glass shelf holding some delightful perfume bottles lettered in gold. More intriguing than the perfumes, though, was the book that was displayed alongside them: Fragonard, 80 Years of Passion.

I plucked the book from the shelf and began to page through colorful, artful pages laced with fascinating fragrance facts—history, techniques, ingredients, cultural and religious uses of perfume. The contents were interwoven with charming historical photos of perfume bottles, perfumed boxes, historical labels, perfume vases, XIIth-Century perfume burners, perfume spoons, IVth-Century perfume vials and interesting historical and cultural photos.

The book delights on every page, including an amusing chapter entitled: From the Renaissance to Enlightenment, The Art of Concealing Embarrassing Smells. It’s a fascinating little tome, published in celebration of the perfumery’s 80th anniversary (which was apparently about four years ago since the perfumery was established in 1926).

Though you can read much of the perfume-history portion of the book on the Fragonard website, the book itself is the perfect little treasure to display in your powder room or guestroom. Depending on what page you happen to open it to, you’ll be treated to any number of fascinating tidbits. For instance:

• An adult’s sense of smell depends largely on the cultural, sensorial and social experiences of his or her childhood.
• A good “nose” can memorize hundreds of primary smells and can even imagine the results of blending smells. 

I Googled the book and found it in the online museum shop of the Minneapolis Institute of the Arts for 50% off the regular price of $34.95. Whether or not you indulge in a book purchase, do enjoy a visit to the Fragonard Parfumeur website. And, the next time you’re in the Spa Boutique at Old Edwards, look for the glass shelf containing little French bottles in accents of gold, black and white—and enjoy the Fragonard sensory exploration.

With the burgeoning interest in adventure travel and learning vacations, travelers no longer have to venture to Costa Rica or beyond the U.S. to fulfill their quest for more enriching leisure. The North Carolina Mountains are ready with their abundant treasures just waiting to be discovered—including locally residing global experts in several fields to help make the experience more enriching.

Learning vacations, experiential travel, eco-tours and adventure vacations—these are all ways that people are making more of their treasured leisure time. Studies have shown that people who normally lead busy lives can actually feel more angst on vacations because they have plenty of time to worry about what is going on at the office that they should be involved in. They have trouble unplugging by sitting around the pool, going to social functions and trying to just vegetate.

Many of these people find relief in “active” relaxation by doing things like yoga and massage. But the newest prescription for beating the vacation doldrums is “experiential vacations.” And they’re taking the travel and leisure industry by storm.

Experiential travel is exploding for all ages and fitness levels. And the Highlands/Cashiers are of North Carolina is a goldmine of natural assets that people can tap into escape the day to day and re-focus their minds on something completely of the ordinary.

Global survival and preparedness expert Dale Stewart trains vacationers in survival and preparedness skills. In addition to bonding groups of friends or families, these are real life skills taught by a seasoned expert that will see people through unexpected events in their lives. Dale says, “After traveling globally to deliver my services to governments, agencies and private corporations for over 20 years, the Highlands/Cashiers area of North Carolina offered the perfect home base from which to provide survival training and family preparedness.

Jordan Kenter, head golf professional for Old Edwards Club says, “In a club atmosphere, especially in the mountains which are rich with recreation opportunities, the family bonding experience is key. Our Golf Learning Experience allows families or friends who have always wanted to dabble in the game to do it in a non-threatening environment that includes a relaxing lunch and some golf goodies. It’s all the benefits of learning a new sport without the intensity or pressure of playing with seasoned golfers—it makes learning fun.”

Noted global artists are also drawn to the inspirational allure of the North Carolina Mountains. Many of them make Highlands their summer home, including Jane Smithers who spends the other part of her year in France. Jane, the 2010 Artist in Residence at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, provides lessons for guests. Jane’s lessons delve as far as one wishes to go into self expression or self discover through art journaling or simply enjoying the beautiful outdoors while painting en plein air. The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts also features a full schedule of art lessons and summer workshops for all ages and experience levels.

Sue Blair’s Carpe Diem Farms has been providing Horse Whispering and Exploring Human Potential Through Horses experiences for years. “There is something about the healing power horses, particularly when the experiences are offered on ‘magical land once walked on by the Cherokees,’” says Sue. “People are amazed at the self-discovery, healing and simple openings that occur when they connect with the energy of a horse—whose personalities, moods and attitudes closely mirror those of humans. And whose perception and intuition far exceed it.”

Beyond the learning vacations, the opportunities for adventure—including river rafting and family float trips—are endless in the North Carolina Mountains. Gem mining, eco-excursions, rock climbing, canoeing—are all ways of meeting the needs of the “active leisure” traveler while still taking them so far out of their zone that they return refreshed, renewed, enriched and recharged.
 

There’s something about the mountain air. A feeling of inspiration—for whatever it is that moves you. That’s what people notice about coming to Highlands. Very shortly after arriving, you can’t miss that freeing sensation of having your mind gently opened; some even say your soul.

It’s a safe bet that the same feeling that we laypeople feel upon arrival is the stimulus for the imaginations of the prolific artists who make their homes here for part or all of the year. Artists of every type live in the homes nestled in these hills – award-winning chefs, famous authors, thespians and talented professionals in the visual arts. And it’s that talent pool of inspired souls that has helped craft the unique culture of the Highlands-Cashiers plateau.

In our upcoming series, “Adventures in Art Weekends,” Old Edwards will tap the minds of these artists to help bring the art world alive for our guests. The first weekend, aptly called “Art Start” will help you discover the artist in you—and we’re betting there is one. You’ll come away with your hand-crafted art journal and all the inspiration you need to express yourself through art.

Talented renowned impressionist Jane Smithers favors oils as her chosen medium. After a wealth of art instruction and experimentation, her hand finally landed on the instrument that sent her soul vibrating at a higher level—the pallet knife. She now travels abroad—when she’s not teaching from her studio in Cashiers, NC—expressing her view of the world through her works. But, for her, it all starts with a sketch or a watercolor on a page in her art journal before bringing it to life on canvas. And that’s what she will be bringing to Art Start—all of the inspiration and imagination you need to start on your path of expression through art. Lunch with Jane at Summit One Gallery followed by an afternoon of hands-on instruction will give you and fellow Art Adventurers lots to talk about at Saturday night’s reception at The Hummingbird Lounge at Old Edwards Inn.

Photographer Greg Newington is known not only for his internationally acclaimed photography, but for his ability to captivate an audience with his magnetic personality and ebullient interest in life itself. Guests of Art Start will be treated to an evening with Greg and his photography during the opening reception at The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Guests who find themselves captivated with Greg—and with photography—can return to Highlands during Winter Fest February 26th through March 7th when he offers an extensive photography workshop. And lovers of the performing arts can get a taste of Highlands talented thespians as the Highlands-Cashiers present The Dixie Swim Club at The Highlands Performing Arts Center. For more information on Winter Fest events, you can contact the Highlands Visitors’ Center at 866-526-5841.

See the full Art Start Itinerary
View the Old Edwards Art Start Package

Old Edwards Wedding Consultants just returned from “The Wedding Party” Presented by Atlanta Weddings Magazine. All the options a bride-to-be could hope to choose from for her big day were featured at booths, displays demonstrations and events. There were custom couture wedding gowns, wedding dolls, ice bars, and truffles picturing the bride and groom’s engagement picture in sugar.

Our trend-spotters brought back the latest information on what’s hot and emerging in today’s weddings. Here are a few of the highlights:

· Multiple events are in vogue. Planners are ensuring guests have plenty of ways to meet, mingle, have fun and enjoy the experience—particularly at destination weddings. After-parties following the reception are gaining in popularity. They are planning the rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, rehearsal dinner after party, the wedding, the wedding reception, the wedding after-party and the farewell brunch, not to mention golf outings, group spa visits and even outdoor adventure treks.

· Patterned table linens are gaining favor over solids.

· Purple is popping up again, particularly light shades and lilac.

· Couples are stepping out of the box for their rehearsal dinners. Some are shedding evening clothes for jeans and khakis to enjoy a more casual event—like picnics and BBQs. Uniqueness is a top priority for many, such as orchard or farm dinners. And some are remaining true to the more established wedding traditions.

Wedding trends are continuing to morph with our society—unique, colorful, varied and customizable to suit any preference. If your taste runs modern, traditional, global, musical, over-the-top unique—or if you’re a back-to-nature-and-simpler-times person, there’s a wedding just waiting to be custom-made for you. The only limitation is your own imagination. Oh…and your budget. 
 

If the culinary talents of Highlands’ innkeepers are any indication, the 2009 Highlands Holiday Cookbook Tour on Saturday, December 12 is going to be a Christmas culinary delight! One of the best things about working in the hospitality industry is that you get to sample a lot of sumptuous food and wine (not to mention indulgent spa treatments and wellness products). And everyone knows about the amazing restaurants in Highlands. But who knew one of the best food experiences would come from the local innkeepers?

It was just a couple of weeks ago that these keepers of the local mountain inns got together for their monthly meeting and revealed they were keepers of some local secrets as well. This was no ordinary meeting. It was the pre-holiday meeting, and it was pot luck.

Everyone arrived as usual, sipped some wines and talked about some business. Then it was on to the “buffet” where the culinary creations were uncovered. We all chatted amiably as we absentmindedly filling our plates with a little of everything—savory dips and entrees to sumptuous side dishes, sauces and desserts. We then found our places at the big wooden table or conversation areas by the fire to dig into our feasts.

That’s when the murmurings began. “Oh my, who made this unique sweet potato pie?” “What’s in this delicious dip?” “I want the recipe for this pork roast.” “You have to try these cheesy potatoes.” At that moment, we all realized what talents we had hiding behind the rustic walls of our cozy inns. And the owners had pulled out their best-kept “secret recipes” for the occasion.

Many of the talented cooks at the table announced that this was the very recipe that visitors to their inn would be sampling during the 2009 Highlands Innkeepers Holiday Cookbook Tour on December 12. In this event, visitors to Highlands and local residents begin at the Highlands Visitor’s Center, where they pick up a “cookbook shell.” It’s a pre-designed cover with the contents waiting to be filled by recipes that collect as they visit the local inns. During the inn visits, each guest gets to sample the recipe that is being featured in the cookbook—so you get to taste the recipes before you make them! A map is provided at the Highlands Visitor’s Center, where you begin your journey.

This year, some Highlands restaurants are also participating. And—no secret here—the restaurateurs from this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains are well-known for their culinary prowess. A couple of them—including Old Edwards and Paoletti’s are even having wine tastings that afternoon, and Old Edwards’Wine Tasting is free! Paoletti’s has limited seating and requires a reservation. Be sure to make a reservation for dinner following your tour so you can experience this yourself. Madison’s Acclaimed Executive Chef, Johannes Klapdohr looks forward to welcoming you.

So on December 12th, pack up a couple of girlfriends—or the family and head to Highlands. You won’t want to miss this culinary journey that leaves you with a keepsake cookbook, a satisfied tummy, and a lot of great ideas just waiting for your next meal or party!

For more information, you can call the Visitor’s Center toll-free at 866-526-5841.
 

(Old Edwards Inn and Spa, Highlands, NC) Six food and travel writers traveled from Atlanta to the mountain village of Highlands, NC to spend two nights at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa August 23 and 24. They came by personal invitation to experience the culinary vision and prowess of Chef Johannes Klapdohr. The German born chef came to Old Edwards at the start of 2009, bringing his farm-to-table, sustainable vision to Madison’s Restaurant and the other food venues at Old Edwards.

The event was aptly titled “Focus on Flavor” echoing Klapdohr’s mantra of getting back the true flavor of our foods by utilizing only the highest quality ingredients and preparing them in the simplest of ways to bring out the honest flavor and retain the nutrients bestowed by Mother Nature.

Upon arrival Sunday night the guests were greeted with cocktails on the rooftop terrace—but not your usual variety. These cocktails featured fresh plant-based enhancements like sassafras and pea shoots.

The party then moved into the private wine room at Old Edwards, where the writers joined several of the resort’s management members for an 8-course wine dinner for 12. Chef Johannes and Chef de Cuisine Chris Huerta nearly stole the show—not only with the unique presentation and vibrant flavors of the courses served but with their table-side personalities and their obvious passion for educating their guests about the difference quality, sustainably-sourced ingredients and proper preparation can make to the palate and the planet. Old Edwards Sommelier Curt Christiansen received numerous accolades for his perfect wine pairings with the unique dishes.

But it was the food that took center stage that night. Oohs, ahs and a sea of heads leaning simultaneously in toward dishes uncovered in unison by the attending servers characterized the evening. And then hums of delight as the ingredients and flavors revealed themselves to appreciative palates. Like Sea Urchin shells placed in dishes before each guest and then lifted all at once by servers to reveal the Sea Urchin and Lobster Custard and Life Cycle of Peas with Verbena Infused Crustacean Froth. This with a “Schupdiwup” by Chef Johannes upon the reveal, one of the many “Johannes-isms used by the German chef.

A solid silver, antique press jus (photo available) was utilized by the skilled chef in the tableside preparation of the Organic Red Eye Gravy for the Coffee Roasted Partridge with Brussels Sprouts “Surprise.”

After indulging in naturally-sweet desserts like Zephyr Squash Blossom Tempura Ginger Spiced Bing Cherrie Ragout with Micro Lemon Grass, guests left the four-hour experience fully satiated. Many voiced their surprise at not feeling overly stuffed even after eight courses, due to the unencumbered dishes prepared simply but with optimal flavor profiles. View Wine Dinner Menu.

Monday, in between kitchen tours and spa treatments, the writers found time to share some emails—many expressing doubt that the coming evenings repast could possibly surpass that of the previous night. But the end of Monday evening would tell a different story.

It all started with a hands-on kitchen demo for the writers, as they were allowed into the Chef’s kitchen—this time, inside The Barn kitchen at The Farm at Old Edwards. Afterward, the writers convened on the wraparound deck of the restored 19th century Farmhouse overlooking a serene pond to enjoy cocktails and house-made charcuterie—a specialty of the house and of Chef Huerta (see Huerta’s blog). A sumptuous and surprising variety of cured meats—some enhanced by plant-based ingredients—were lovingly displayed by Chef Huertas, who regaled guests with his intimate knowledge of the process, literally from farm to table.

Then, as twilight approached, guests made their way to the apple orchard on the grounds of “The Farm.” Twinkling firefly style white lights dangled from trees, pillar candles in clear glass sat in the grass surrounding the long farm table set with hearty, home-style settings atop burlap. And guests new they were in for a special evening.

Very shortly upon sitting, platters started circulating family style in nostalgic-looking clayware and ceramics—all reminiscent of a comfortable farm-style family dinner. Very popular was the “Tomato Salad”: Marinated Beets with Micro Caraway, Walnut Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar. “Dave Taylor’s” Summer Lettuces with Garden Vegetables reflected the Madison’s Menu item so popular to locals, the Dave Taylor House Salad. The “Sunburst Trout” and Caviar Rolls with Red Ribbon Sorrel garnished with Pea Shoots and Memo Chives made several rounds.

The guest list was a little longer for this evening’s gathering. Guests of honor included local vegetable farmers, trout providers and gristmill operators, all of who took a moment to share their stories and philosophies—echoing Chef Johannes’s passion for the symbiotic relationship between nature and the foods with which we nurture our bodies. Special guest to the occasion was Farmer Lee Jones who flew in for the event from Chef’s Garden in Ohio, where Chef Johannes spent time before moving to North Carolina to share his special knowledge and vision.

Wine was poured, dishes were passed, servers in farm-style clothes and “wellies” made multiple trips from farmhouse kitchen to table, refilling, replenishing and—even themselves—appearing to relax and enjoy. And the evening flowed.

As did the food. If Sunday’s Wine dinner was eight courses, this one must have been 16—but who’s counting when you’re in a candlelit orchard under the stars enjoying nature’s bounty. Cauliflower Variation Roasted with Sunflower Seeds and Lovage, Garden Vegetable Cassoulet with Summer Savory and Bacon. It was as if a garden had sprouted up around the table and all the colorful, tasty vegetables had invited themselves to the dinner party. Even the dessert sprung right from Mother Nature—and the sweetness was just the right amount to satisfy but from natural sources that didn’t send blood sugar levels souring. White Carrot Crème Brûlée, Orchard Apple and Pears Baked in Clay, and Beet Lollipops with Spices and Chocolate Soil. Yes, Beet Lollipops. And they were good.
View full Farm Dinner Menu.

Amazing the power of such a setting to bring people out of their shell (if food writers have a shell), have them waxing philosophical, and making palpable our innate connection to nature. At the evening’s end, after relishing the last vestiges of conversation with sips of richly roasted coffee, guests reluctantly made their way up from the table. Hugs were shared and promises were made to keep in touch and carry the message.

Tuesday morning’s emails were gushes of appreciation, admiration and promises not to forget the messages that Chefs Johannes and Chris, Farmer Lee, Farmer Dave Taylor and the entire experience left them with. It was back to Atlanta for the writers, with—as reported through Tuesday morning’s emails—a truly inspired experience, an entirely new way of thinking about food, and a commitment to fully understand and embrace the natural and sustainable natural methods of sourcing, preparing, enjoying and appreciating the beauty and bounty that surround us—if we only take time to pay attention.

And Chef Johannes’ take on the two evenings? “We had the best time and it is wonderful to know that schmackofatz food, exquisite wine, great company and a little roof over your head is really all you need to live life graciously. For a chef it is always rewarding to be able to cook for people that truly appreciate the craft, artistry and of course the awesome products that we featured for this special event.”

View Johannes Klapdohr’s Bio
 

I joined about 30 other diners for my first Highlands wine dinner Monday night at Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro. It was the perfect size gathering to meet new people and learn about wine in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. There’s something about sitting around a big candle-lit table, chatting amicably above the din while friendly, efficient servers present you with course after course and wine after wine. You find yourself transported to Napa and, invariably, the conversation turns toward your dinner companions’ interesting excursions into the growing regions of California (or Italy or Germany—wherever the home of the evening’s featured Vineyard might be).

The Vineyard this particular evening was Swanson, (I’m a new fan of their Pinot Grigio, by the way). And the menu prepared by Chef Ryan and Wolfgang was scrumptious!

I’m already looking forward to next Monday’s event: “The Bad Boys of Napa.” That just sounds like something you have to go to even if you’re not a wine enthusiast, doesn’t it? I’m picturing two leather clad, wine bearing Harley riders rolling into our quaint mountain village to the sounds of George Thorogood. Though the entrance likely won’t be that grand or colorful, the evening is sure to satisfy—especially since Mindy Green, the ebullient “other half” of Wolfgang himself, is scheduled to be in house for this one (we missed you last week, Mindy!).

If you do happen to favor food and wine events—with or without the Bad Boys—you’ll want to mark your calendar for November 12-15 when the town presents Highlands Culinary Weekend 2009. Wine dinners abound in our delightful mountain town during this annual fall street festival. And one of last year’s favorite events—the “Sip and Stroll”—along Main Street in the crisp fall air, returns this year.

Highlands’ eclectic restaurants break out all the stops to showcase their culinary prowess for Culinary Weekend. This year, Old Edwards is holding two Wine Dinners for the occasion—one at Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden and one at The Farm. Each dinner will feature the farm-to-table culinary creations of Old Edwards Executive Chef Johannes Klapdohr.

At The Farm, wine will flow freely, bountiful platters of delectable food will be passed family style, and the evening will shape itself with friendly chatter, laughter and neighborly camaraderie—all fostered by the rustically enchanted atmosphere of Farm at Old Edwards. Guests will share bottles of Duckhorn Vineyards, Paraduxx and Goldeneye as dusk brings its special magic and the soothing sounds of live music lend the perfect ambiance to a memorable evening.

The Madison’s Wine Dinner will feature Duckhorn Vineyard wines paired with New-South Cuisine in the relaxed elegance of Madison’s Restaurant. Crisp fall breezes and soothing sounds of rushing water will flow in from the Wine Garden through open windows. The wine and culinary teams at Madison’s will be in rare form as they display their passions to a captivated audience at this popular annual wine dinner. For a more intimate experience with a few close friends, you can request the private wine room that holds up to 12 people.

If there’s anything better than sharing wine, food, laughter and great conversation around a table, it’s sharing an entire weekend of it throughout a vibrant mountain town. Bad Boys, good wines, scrumptious food—Highlands plays host to them all. And the good reservations for Highlands Culinary Weekend are going early. So gather some friends and make plans now!
 

July 4th weekend kicked off the unofficial start of the summer season in Highlands. And what a start it is! All the shops, restaurants, galleries and inns are brimming with life and culture. Trunk shows are abundant at Acorn’s this season and—as well as other locations in Highlands. Summit One Gallery is holding a Studio Courtyard Sale this Friday, July 11 with lemonade and BBQ for guests. Also this week/weekend is the annual Mountains in Bloom Festival presented by The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Drake’s Diamond Gallery is hosting a Mia Katrin Show July 25, complete with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro has a sizzling July lineup that includes two performances by acoustic singer/songwriter Tom Quigley and a Wine Dinner by Robert Craig Winery. Madison’s Restaurant has become the place to be for breakfast in Highlands with the new Chef Johannes Klapdhor at the helm—and the Wine Garden remains a favorite for summer afternoon nibbles and sips. Both the Performing Arts Center and the Highlands Playhouse have full seasons of endless entertainment planned, as does the Chamber Music Festival.

Yes, our cup runneth over with cultural opportunities in this enchanting mountain village of Highlands. But beyond the culinary and creative pursuits that give us such pleasure, the call of the wild that has drawn visitors to Highlands for decades remains the star of the show here on the Plateau. Hiking excursions to scenic overlooks, a refreshing swim in a clear mountain pool, awe-inspiring waterfalls, horseback rides on forested trails, canoeing, kayaking, fly fishing—Highlands truly is a paradise for nature lovers! And if you’re one of them, be sure to bookmark the Highlands Land Trust website to stay informed about ecotours, including Stargazing on the Mountain October 23 (book your lodging now for this, as October draws leaf lookers from far and wide). And don’t miss the Green Living Fair July 25 and 26.

Of course, new to the Highlands experience this year is mountain golfing at the Old Edwards Club, a newly renovated architectural marvel that cascades along 200 acres on one of the highest ridges on the east coast.

These activities only represent a portion of the happenings in Highlands this season. For a more thorough listing, visit the websites of the Highlands Chamber, The Mountain Laurel Magazine, The Highlander Newspaper Calendar of Events and HighlandsInfo.com. And coming in September/October, Old Edwards Inn has some exciting premiere events planned—including a Southern Women Writers Series where you can meet, eat and hobnob with your favorite southern storytellers against the intimate backdrop of the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. More information on that—and our Oktoberfest—coming soon!
 

The Spa at Old Edwards is starting a series of summer beauty and wellness tips. And the first one has to do with hydration. Increased hydration assists in beatifying the skin because it allows plumping of the tissue to eliminate fine lines & wrinkles. Hydration is also important internally to support the adrenals that become overburdened by stress.
 
Insider Spa Tip: Use Anakiri Hydrate, a revolutionary approach to hydration. Add a few drops to your drinking water too energetically stimulate your body’s water absorption.
 
(Please note: this is not a paid endorsement. These tips come from our wellness professionals at The Spa and represent products and services that they feel have leading edge benefits in the field of beauty and wellness.)
 

In this inaugural edition of the Old Edwards blog, I want to give readers a taste of what they can expect in future editions. 

Old Edwards Inn and Spa has the great honor of being situated in North Carolina’s spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains.  The indescribable beauty and rich heritage of the Highlands/Cashiers area have inspired a medley of talented artists, craftsmen, musicians and even architects of various specialties and genres.  Talented chefs and acclaimed restaurateurs have also made their homes here, sparking the opening of superb award-winning restaurants of an eclectic variety.

These are all the things that we’ve built our company culture around.  And we feel like Old Edwards Inn is synonymous with all that is great about Highlands and the Western North Carolina Mountains.  With onsite shopping and dining venues, our award-winning wine cellar, our music venues, our old-world art and architecture, and the hand-selected period antiques that grace our interiors—we are fortunate to live in a flourishing world of art, culture and leisure. 

And these are the experiences that we want to share with our readers.  Our blog will echo with the North Carolina mountain spirit—all the arts, culture, recreation, activities, lifestyles and interesting people that make this area so alluring.

I hope you will enjoy embarking on this journey with us. We look forward to sharing thoughts, ideas and musings with you. And we hope you’ll share some of yours with us as we go along.