This recognition marks a milestone not only for McDonald but also for The Stir, Asheville’s collaborative food and beverage workspace she co-founded with Matcha Nude and Spice Witch. All three woman-owned businesses that share The Stir’s kitchen space are now NC IDEA grant recipients, highlighting the innovation and community-driven spirit fueling Asheville’s small business scene. 

“This grant is both a celebration and an investment in what we’re building here in Asheville,” said Katie McDonald, founder of Full Moon Tea Company. “It’s a reminder that creative, woman-owned businesses in Western North Carolina are not only thriving, but helping shape the future of food and beverage in our region.” 

Founded in late 2023, Full Moon Tea Company crafts vibrant, pastry-chef-inspired loose-leaf teas that celebrate flavor, sustainability, and community connection. Since surviving the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and launching The Stir in early 2025, McDonald’s brand has grown organically into a regional favorite, known for whimsical blends like Strawberry Honeysuckle White Tea and Appalachian Goddess Gray. 

McDonald plans to use the NC IDEA funding to further scale production, audit the company’s branding and packaging, and invest in marketing and retail partnerships to expand Full Moon Tea Company’s presence across North Carolina and beyond. 

“Our space, The Stir, is living proof of what happens when women collaborate instead of compete,” said McDonald. “Each of our businesses brings something unique to the table, and this recognition from NC IDEA feels like a win for all of us, and for Asheville’s creative food community.”