We all know that this year is a little bit different when it comes to planning something special for Valentine’s day. We can’t just book a reservation at a fancy restaurant and call it a day - so why not use this as an opportunity to get creative and spontaneous? (We’ve heard creativity and spontaneity is the recipe for true love!) More than ever, our loved ones, our community and even ourselves could really use some extra love and support. Just because we all may be feeling a little STUCK (literally, stuck at home, or figuratively stuck in this never ending pandemic cloud), doesn't mean we should let Valentine's day go by without a little acknowledgement. Our team at Town and Mountain want to help you keep those love vibes flowin’ while supporting LOCAL - so here are our ideas to safely SPICE THINGS UP for Valentines day!!!
Go for an "urban hike" on the new greenway along the French Broad River. Park at Smoky Mountain Supper Club (currently closed for business) and head towards Amboy Bridge (roundtrip 3.6 miles/35 minutes...and of course you can always turn right at the bridge to make it a longer hike). Stop for a "wine break" at Pleb Urban Winery (yummy wines from grapes grown locally). Sample a variety by ordering a flight, and don't forget to add on one of their cute little "charcuterie boxes"... Pleb practices super safe COVID guidelines, including outdoor tables. Or, just order a growler of wine (yes, from the tap!) to go!
Pack some blankets in your car, stop by Crocodile Wine for a bottle of natural wine, get take out from Nani's Chicken, a bouquet from the Open Hearts Center “Paper Flower Market”, and head up to the top of Town Mountain (or any mountain!) and pull over where there is a beautiful view and enjoy a trunk picnic. Wrap up in blankets, stay safe, support our local restaurants and have a romantic and unique Valentine’s meal.
Bring a mattress to your living room and all the pillows and blankets from around the house and create a cozy movie watching scene on the living room floor. Get a sampling of French Broad Chocolates, some Poppy popcorn and whatever your honey's (partner, lover, roommate, or yourself) favorite movie watching snack is and cozy up to a great movie. One recommendation - "Call Me By Your Name" - you get romance, and that warm Italian summer feeling.... (and maybe we can forget about the blustery cold that is Winter in AVL right now)!
Alone for Valentine’s day? TREAT YOURSELF - you deserve it! Pick up a hot meal to go from your favorite restaurant, we recommend Benne on Eagle, run a hot bath, sprinkle in some Rose Bath Salts from Asheville Bee Charmer, light some beeswax candles (also available at Asheville Bee Charmer). Relax and revel in the warmth of the bath and a delicious local meal
Galentine’s Day Idea....Virtual Wine Tasting!
Takes a little prep, but garners a great reward. Have each participant buy a bottle of wine they have never tried (We recommend stopping in at Appalachian Vintner and getting a suggestion from their knowledgeable and friendly staff) and those little jam sized jars. Pour tasting amounts in each jar (for as many friends as will “attend”). Make a sweet little basket for each of your friends. Include a mini charcuterie plate, and the mini wine samples, and drop off on each doorstep the day of the tasting. Schedule a Zoom wine tasting and everyone can add their tasting notes, etc. Have fun “hanging out”, chatting, snacking and drinking wine together as if you were all in the same living room! You could do this with wine, beer, doughnuts, homemade cookies… anything! Get creative.
