A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Each year, Our State celebrates North Carolina’s talented artisans with the Made in NC Awards. In 2022, top honors to the creators of a special lamb dish in Cornelius, a

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Each year, Our State celebrates North Carolina’s talented artisans with the Made in NC Awards. In 2022, top honors to the creators of a special lamb dish in Cornelius, a

Meet Our Makers

Each year, Our State celebrates North Carolina’s talented artisans with the Made in NC Awards. In 2022, top honors to the creators of a special lamb dish in Cornelius, a knifesmith and a brewer of a probiotic elixir in Asheville, candlemakers in Durham, and a sock manufacturer in Mount Airy. Now, it’s time for you to meet North Carolina’s award winners.

 


 

Bright Black.
Craft

A Triangle-area family mixes positive messages with scents of lilac, myrrh, tobacco, and other fragrances. Their handcrafted candles illuminate the music and culture of the African Diaspora. Read more …

 


 

Shanti Elixirs, LLC
Drink

Jun is an ancient beverage shrouded in mystery. Made by fermenting honey and tea, its origin is uncertain. But today, a group of women near Asheville are writing their own chapter in its history. Read more …

 


 

Sun Raised Foods
Food

When an alternative-energy entrepreneur turned to sheep as an eco-friendly way to help maintain the grass around panels, delicious serendipity struck in the form of lamb salami. Read more …

 


 

Robinson Ex-Files Knives
Home & Garden

Inspired by a long tradition among Appalachian farmers, a couple in Buncombe County transforms vintage tools and time-worn fabrics into handcrafted cutlery for modern kitchens. Read more …

 


 

Farm to Feet
Style

The second-generation owner of a Surry County hosiery mill is helping keep a North Carolina legacy industry alive. His company’s 21st-century socks feature bold designs and high-quality fabrics geared to dedicated lovers of the outdoors. Read more …

 


 

Honorable Mentions

The 10 honorable mentions in our Made in NC Awards impressed our judges — and us! — with their incredible creativity, craftsmanship, and stories showcasing the best that North Carolina has to offer. Read more …

This story was published on Jan 23, 2023

Our State Staff

Since 1933, Our State has shared stories about North Carolina with readers both in state and around the world. We celebrate the people and places that make this state great. From the mountains to the coast, we feature North Carolina travel, history, food, and beautiful scenic photography.