Subhead edit: I deleted "up shop" to avoid having shop twice in one sentence. :)

Many big box stores and major retail chains are closing across the US, including in Asheville. But for the love of all things local, we're exploring some of our favorite uniquealternatives to the familiar franchises.

Joann Fabrics

This craft store's Asheville and Hendersonville locations are set to shut down, but you can find plenty of art supplies — from paints to frames to sewing supplies — at Cheap Joe's Art Stuff on Riverside Drive.

If it's fabric you seek, Remnants Thrift & Sew in Mars Hill has an abundant selection, plus sewing classes for beginners or skilled craftspeople. City Editor Bethany can attest that the free fabric section is definitely worth exploring.

And lastly, if you're yearning for yarn,lol love Purl's Yarn Emporium is stocked with yarn, tools, and even unique kits to craft special items.

Party City

The chain store is going out of business, closing all of its locations, including the Tunnel Road store. Although our inner child will miss Disney movie-themed party sets, there are plenty of options to throw a stellar soiree with the help of locally owned-businesses.

AVLbash can take care of the balloon arch (and the party planning). L.O.F.T. of Asheville and Duncan and York are go-to spots for quirky and whimsical decor, games, and trinkets for goodie bags.

JCPenney

The retailer announced it will close its Asheville Mall location in May, but you can surely find a 'fit at a local shop. Charmed Boutique has a wide range of women's clothing and jewelry, with tops that start at $15.

Hazel Twenty and its menswear counterpart, Lex Twenty, offer a stylish selection of women's, men's, and kids' clothing. Perhaps we rephrase to "Hazel Twenty, and its menswear counterpart, Lex Twnety," since they're technically two separate stores?Plus, Union is stocked with trendy men's and women's items.

Big Lots

The Arden store's lease is listed as for sale, but if you're looking for deals on furniture, home goods, and groceries, you have plenty of options.

Davis Home Furniture's 150,000-sqft showroom has every item you could need at a range of prices. But if you're looking to decorate, you can score some awesome wares at Mine & Yours Resale on New Leicester Highway. Lastly, if it's the snacks that do it for you, Hopey & Co. has a ton, from local items to deeply discounted pantry staples.
lowkey can't think of anything here but I need to move on rn lol
Discount furniture: Davis Home Furniture
Homegoods: Mine & Yours Resale
Discount Groceries: Hopey & Co.