Welcome to the picturesque Foothills NC. This peaceful area of the North Carolina Mountains is the epitome of cozy nature. The Foothills are also the home of our small business, Southern Oak Artisan. We wanted to share with you, our little slice of heaven in Western North Carolina and why we decided to move here, and start our candle business. 

Meet Foothills NC

Welcome to the Foothills of North Carolina, where the hustle and bustle of everyday life takes a backseat to the rhythm of nature. Nestled between the majestic Appalachian Mountains and the rolling Piedmont, this region exudes a unique charm that’s both rustic and enchanting. 

Here, time seems to slow down, inviting you to savor the simple pleasures of life. Since this is where we retired to and started Southern Oak Artisan, we wanted to bring you into what makes this corner of North Carolina a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Lenoir, NC

While we live in the Foothills of North Carolina, let’s get down to exactly where our business was founded. We live and craft our handmade soy candles in Caldwell County. More specifically, Lenoir, NC is where we call home. 

Lenoir has much to offer. This charming community piqued our interest when we used to visit the Blowing Rock, Asheville, Cherokee, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, artistic inspiration, or just a peaceful retreat, Lenoir offers it all. 

It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, and we hope we can help more people find their way to this delightful corner of our state.

What makes our area of the Foothills NC a great place?

Lenoir, North Carolina, in the Foothills has its own unique charm that’s definitely worth exploring. Here are some of the fantastic aspects that make Lenoir a great place:

Scenic Beauty

Lenoir is cradled by the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a backdrop that is nothing short of breathtaking. This natural beauty becomes even more enchanting as the seasons change. 

In the fall, the landscape transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues that paint the entire region. The lush greenery of summer gradually gives way to a symphony of red, orange, and gold as the foliage embraces the changing season. It is what inspired our fall pumpkin collection of handmade soy candles. 

Whether you’re hiking along scenic trails or simply taking a leisurely drive, the vibrant tapestry of the Blue Ridge Mountains during autumn is a sight to behold. The crisp mountain air, the rustling leaves, and the panoramic vistas all come together to create a sensory experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. 

Outdoor Adventures

This charming town opens its arms to outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of adventures to quench your thirst for nature. If you have a passion for hiking, you’ll find yourself in paradise here. One of our favorite spots to take a hike or walk is the Broyhill Walking Park.

Camping is another jewel in Lenoir’s outdoor crown. There are ample camping spots that allow you to escape in the peaceful embrace of nature. For those who enjoy casting a line, Lenoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. The nearby rivers are teeming with a variety of fish, promising a rewarding day out on the water. 

And if kayaking is more your style, you’ll find the rivers perfect for a thrilling paddle. The gentle currents and stunning scenery make for an unforgettable kayaking adventure.

In Lenoir, the great outdoors isn’t just a backdrop; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories in the lap of nature. 

Artistic Vibe

Lenoir has a growing arts scene. You can explore local art galleries and even catch live music performances in town. It’s a great place for artists and art enthusiasts. The Western Piedmont and surrounding counties are big supporters of artisans. It is one of the highlights of why we love the area. 

In fact, there is a wide range of artisans from here and through the Great Smoky Mountains.

Craft Breweries and Wineries

The Foothills region boasts some fantastic craft breweries and wineries that offer a great way to unwind. You can visit these local spots and enjoy a sip of their homegrown brews and wines while soaking in the stunning countryside views. 

One of our favorites is the Happy Valley Filling Station. You can grab a craft beer and pizza and take in the mountain air. Another favorite is the Moonjoy Meadery. MoonJoy Meadery is a family-owned, small-batch meadery. They take pride in crafting their meads using only the finest ingredients: 100% North Carolina honey and pure Lenoir spring water. 

Whether you prefer a refreshing beer or a glass of wine, these places use ingredients from the region, giving you a taste of the local flavors.

Lenoir Downtown Historic District

Lenoir’s Downtown Historic District is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts. This area is packed with well-preserved historic buildings that reflect the town’s evolution over the years. 

One standout attraction within this district is the “Hibriten Furniture Building.” This building once housed the Hibriten Furniture Company, a significant part of Lenoir’s industrial history. It’s an excellent example of how the town thrived during its manufacturing heyday.

Moreover, the district often hosts events and festivals that celebrate the town’s heritage, making it a lively and culturally rich place to explore. It’s a wonderful spot to snap some photos, soak in the town’s history, and perhaps even chat with locals to uncover more hidden stories of Lenoir’s past.

Friendly Community

In Lenoir, the town’s welcoming spirit is as enduring as its stunning landscapes. The people here are renowned for their warm hospitality, making it a place where every visit feels like a homecoming.  You’ll find that striking up conversations with locals often leads to more than just casual chit-chat; it can pave the way to lifelong friendships. 

Whether you’re sipping coffee at a quaint café, attending a community event, or sharing stories at a local farmers’ market, you’ll discover that Lenoir’s residents are eager to share their love for the town and its rich history. In this corner of North Carolina, making meaningful connections isn’t just a possibility; it’s practically a guarantee. 

Farm-to-Table Dining

Lenoir’s culinary scene is a testament to the region’s commitment to freshness and flavor. Here, you can indulge in a delightful farm-to-table dining experience that elevates every meal into a culinary adventure. 

Lenoir’s restaurants take pride in showcasing locally sourced ingredients, weaving the essence of the region’s fertile land into their dishes. As you savor each bite, you’ll taste the authenticity of North Carolina’s bounty. Imagine sinking your teeth into dishes where the vegetables are harvested just miles away, and the meats are raised on nearby farms. 

It’s not just about a meal; it’s about a connection to the land and its flavors. Lenoir’s chefs are passionate about their craft, and their commitment to quality shines through in every plate they serve. So, whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys good eats, Lenoir’s farm-to-table dining experiences are sure to leave your taste buds delighted and your heart full.

Small-Town Charm

Lenoir, situated within the foothills of North Carolina, embodies the perfect small-town charm, ideal for embracing a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.

You’ll quickly discover the allure of a town where time seems to slow down just enough to allow you to savor life’s simple pleasures. Lenoir’s tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and friendly faces evoke a sense of nostalgia, harkening back to a time when life was less hurried and more meaningful.

The unhurried pace allows you to delight in leisurely strolls, engage in meaningful conversations with neighbors, and truly appreciate life’s smaller, yet immensely gratifying, moments. It’s a place where the stress of the modern world seems to dissipate, replaced by an ambiance that encourages you to live fully and joyfully in the present.

In Lenoir, the charm isn’t just in the scenery; it’s in the very essence of the town and its people, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a more balanced and contented way of life.

Conservation Efforts

The Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina serves as a source of inspiration for conservation efforts in Western North Carolina. Their mission revolves around the permanent protection of land and water, ensuring the well-being of both humanity and the diverse ecosystems that inhabit the region.

The Foothills has attained a notable achievement in the realm of land conservation within the United States. This achievement signifies their strong belief in the perpetual protection of the lands under the care of the Foothills Conservancy.

Southern Oak Artisan

When it comes to showcasing the heart and soul of a community, few things capture its essence as beautifully as local businesses. And in Lenoir, we are thrilled to be one of them. This community embraces our unique soy candle business. 

As you explore the Foothills of North Carolina, be sure to patronize the small businesses. It’s a celebration of the region’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. When you shop locally, you foster a sense of community and support the livelihoods of those who call Lenoir home.

Visit the Foothills NC

Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, artistic inspiration, or just a peaceful retreat, Lenoir offers it all. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. We hope that you are interested in visiting and exploring the Foothills, the home of Southern Oak Artisan. We are sure you will love it as much as we do.