WILMINGTON — Heart of Carolina recently celebrated a grand opening that included a ribbon cutting with Mayor Bill Saffo, City Council member Kevin O’Grady along with friends and family. Situated on the ground floor of the iconic Cotton Exchange, the ceremony was officiated by Wilmington Downtown Incorporated.
Heart of Carolina carries an eclectic array of products made in North Carolina. Proprietor Anna LaRue and store manager Lisa LaRue curate a range of items fashioned by talented artisans, smiths, vintners, brewers, weavers, craftsman, musicians and others with a connection to North Carolina.
“Starting my own business is a dream come true,” owner Anna LaRue, said. “After a career that took me all over the country, I am so excited to find a space in this Wilmington landmark that will also allow me to promote and represent products from my home state.”
The bright and airy storefront is filled with interesting and creative items, many fashioned by hand. The store features pottery, jewelry, quilts, prints and paintings depicting scenes from across the state and folk art inspired signs.
North Carolina foods are also sprinkled throughout the space including grits, nuts, jams and jellies, pickled items, rubs and honey. Wine and craft beer produced in the state are also available. In addition, the shop carries regionally sourced candles, soaps, lip balm and other similar items. Wood tables, trivets and even bales of cotton that can serve as foot stools are also available.
“The Heart of Carolina is a great addition to Downtown,” WDI President Ed Wolverton said. “The artisan focus by Anna and Lisa further strengthens the center city as a destination for locally made products.”
The Heart of North Carolina is located at 312 Nutt Street, facing the free parking lot for visitors to the Cotton Exchange, across from the Riverside Hilton Hotel. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays. The shop has a robust website that can be found at www.heartofcarolina.net.
About Heart of Carolina
Heart of Carolina in Wilmington showcases the best that North Carolina has to offer. Its partnership with North Carolina producers and artisans brings local goods to the shop and promotes the wonderful creations of talented men and women from across the State.
About Wilmington Downtown Incorporated
WDI’s mission is to promote the economic growth and development of Downtown Wilmington.
-Content provided by WDI
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