The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Blue Ridge Business Growth Awards on Monday, May 4th at Southern Appalachian Brewery. The Chamber hosts this event each year during National Small Business Week as a way to highlight the successes of our small business community.
This year there were 14 Business Growth Award Recipients and 4 Rising Stars (start-up business in operation for less than 3 years). Along with Presenting Sponsors Champion Credit Union and WNC Business, additional support came from The Salty Landing and Southern Appalachian Brewery.
“For over 94 years, Champion Credit Union has been a trusted financial institution, committed to supporting individuals, families, and small businesses in our community. We believe small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” said Tina Lance, Market Executive of Champion Credit Union. “The dedication, resilience, and innovation inspire the growth and success we see across our community every day. We are proud to sponsor the Growth and Rising Star Awards, celebrating the achievements and bright futures of outstanding businesses. It’s an honor to recognize those who are not only succeeding today but also shaping the future of our community.”

GROWTH AWARD Recipients
Alessi Insurance Founded over 40 years ago by Charlie Alessi, Alessi Insurance Services has become a trusted provider of individual and group insurance throughout Western North Carolina.
Always Best Care: Always Best Care Senior Services, founded in 2010, is a locally owned and operated business that has become a trusted provider of senior care across five surrounding counties. T
Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More Big Frog Custom T-Shirts, founded in 2015 by owner David Riddel, has become a trusted local business known for its creativity and personalized service.
Designing Spaces by Lyn: Founded in 2022 by Lyn Mabry, Designing Spaces by Lyn has quickly made its mark by bringing style, creativity, and vision to homes throughout our community.
Discover Hometown: Discover Hometown Magazine, founded in May 2005 and owned by Annamarie Jakubielski, has become a powerful platform for local businesses to thrive. T
Flat Rock Cinema: Founded in 2007, Flat Rock Cinema has been an important part of the Flat Rock entertainment scene for nearly two decades.
Hajoca Hendersonville: With deep roots in both the industry and our local community, Hajoca continues to set the standard for reliability, service, and success. 
Hendersonville/Mills River/Arden Family Dental: Hendersonville, Mills River, Arden Family Dental began its journey in December 2011, when Dr. Stohl purchased what was then Hendersonville Family Dental and set out with a vision for expansion and excellence.
Inside Out: Inside Out Inc., founded in 1994 and led by owner Monica Barrios, is an outdoor experiential education company dedicated to inspiring, motivating, and educating through hands-on learning.
Noble Pest Solutions: Noble Pest Solutions, founded in 2019 by Donnie and Kelly Noble, is a family-owned business built on passion, dedication, and a clear vision for excellence.
Romeo, Harrelson, & Mullen: Romeo, Harrelson, and Mullen, P.A. was founded in 1951 and has built a long-standing reputation for trusted legal counsel and dedicated client service.
Stuller Power Solutions: Stuller Power Solutions, founded in 2000 by Brian and Cheryl Stuller, specializes in generator installation, sales, and comprehensive power services.
Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt: Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt, located in downtown Hendersonville and owned by Kelly Buchanan, is a self-serve frozen yogurt and ice cream shop featuring a wide variety of toppings and treats.
Whit’s: Since opening its doors in Hendersonville in 2015, Whit’s Frozen Custard has become a beloved local favorite.

RISING STARS
Arsenal Pest Management: Arsenal Pest Management, founded in 2024 and led by CEO Bryan Crisp, is a pest management company committed to delivering high-quality service with integrity, value, and care. 
Boodas Brewing: Boodas Brewing Company, founded in 2023 by owner Jeff Hughes, has made an immediate impact by creating a welcoming space where community comes first.
Home2 Suites: Under the leadership of General Manager Justin Moody, Home2 Suites has not only launched successfully but has already experienced significant growth in its first two years.
Ryno Rental: Ryno Rental, founded in 2024 by owner Ryan Maxwell, is a roll-off dumpster rental and junk removal company that has quickly built a reputation for reliability, responsiveness, and outstanding service. 

Source: Henderson County Chamber of Commerce.