AVL Biz Weekly – July 1 Edition: Red, White & Biz

Welcome to AVL BIZ Weekly, your local cheat sheet for what’s happening in Asheville’s small business and creative scenes.

Each week, I send out hand-picked events, marketing ideas that actually work, and a little local flavor to keep things fun.

My name's Jason and I'm writing this (connect with me here).

On Deck

• 📅 2 can’t-miss business events happening in Asheville

• 💡 2 sizzling summer marketing ideas (plus one underrated tip)

• 🎉 4 fun happenings to make the most of this long weekend

• 🎶 Your cheat sheet to 10+ summer shows worth leaving the house for

🙋 Want your biz featured in front of a few really smart AVL business owners? Email me for details

Hi Asheville small biz heroes,

Business events may be slowing down a bit this week (thanks, fireworks and vacations), but the fun is just heating up. Whether you're taking a breather or using the quiet to get ahead, we've got a roundup that keeps you plugged into what matters: connection, visibility, and a good time.

Let’s make the most of the week.

Upcoming Business Events

• 🗓️ 1 Million Cups Asheville | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 · 9:00 AM–10:00 AM @ Asheville Chamber of Commerce

  Fuel your morning with coffee and connection at this weekly entrepreneurial gathering. At 1 Million Cups Asheville, local startups share their stories, challenges, and triumphs in a casual, supportive setting. Whether you're a founder, mentor, or just curious about the startup scene, it's a great place to learn, connect, and contribute. Drop by, sip some coffee, and be part of Asheville’s growing business community. Take note no registration required, just curiosity and conversation!

• 🗓️ Code with Asheville Open Project / Co-Work Day | Saturday, July 5 · 11:00 AM @ Hi-Wire Brewing – Big Top, 2A Huntsman Place, Asheville, NC

  Hey there, coders, designers, and anyone curious about tech! Join the monthly coworking meetup, a perfect spot whether you’re tackling an open-source project, mastering a new stack, or simply looking to connect with others who get your tech talk. This is a pressure-free, ego-free zone where collaboration, creativity, and delicious local brews come together in a laid-back setting. Bring your laptop, grab a pint, and dive into a project or start something new with support from a like-minded crew.

Hosting something cool?

📬 Hit reply and tell me what you think. Or share an event!

Marketing Quickies

I’m a marketer and educator at heart. Here I’ll share interesting links that you can apply to your business to get more leads, make your life easier, hire better, and grow your business.

• 1. Add keywords to your photos before uploading them to Google
  If you’re adding photos to your Google Business Profile or website, rename them with keywords first (e.g., asheville-custom-cabinets.jpg instead of IMG_3922.jpg). Helps with local search visibility and it’s free.

  • Pro tip: Geotag them too with a tool like GeoImgr if you're feeling fancy.

• 2. Turn FAQs into short videos
  What’s one question you always answer for customers? Turn that into a 60-second Reel or Story. You’ll build trust and it’s a sneaky SEO booster when embedded on your site.

  • Bonus: Use the same script to create a Google Business Profile post or blog blurb.

  🆘 If this marketing stuff makes your head spin, or need help getting more local customers, shoot me a message. This is what I do 🙂

Fun Stuff Around AVL

• 🗓️ Asheville Independence Day Races | Friday, July 4 · Morning (various start times) @ Asheville, NC

  Lace up and celebrate freedom with a run! The Asheville Independence Day Races offer a spirited start to your holiday. Whether you opt for the 5K Run/Walk (stroller & dog friendly!) or the challenging 10K Run, you'll enjoy a fun and fast course through the heart of downtown Asheville. Beyond the personal challenge, you'll be contributing to a great cause, as $5 from each registration goes directly to Food Connection.

• 🗓️ Independence Day Block Party – South Slope | Friday, July 4 · 5:00–10:00 PM @ South Slope, Downtown Asheville

  Get ready for an epic 4th of July celebration, Asheville-style! Enjoy an evening packed with food trucks, live music, local craft beer, and unique business pop-ups. The night culminates in a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 PM, illuminating the skyline. Bring a blanket, your favorite people, and all your patriotic spirit this South Slope party is a must-attend!

• 🗓️ Goat Yoga on the Farm | Saturday, July 6 · 10:00 AM–11:00 AM @ Franny’s Farm, 22 Franny’s Farm Rd, Leicester, NC

  Start your weekend with a stretch and a smile at Franny’s Farm! This playful outdoor yoga session is guided by a certified instructor and joined by a herd of friendly, curious goats. It’s the perfect blend of wellness and whimsy set against the peaceful backdrop of rolling hills and fresh mountain air. Great for beginners and experienced yogis alike. Bring your mat, your camera, and your sense of humor because goat snuggles included! Space is limited, so sign up early to guarantee your spot.

• 🗓️ Pottery Painting @ Fired Up! Asheville | Sunday, July 6 · 4:00 PM @ Fired Up! Creative Lounge, 26 Wall Street, Asheville, NC

  Get creative and unwind with a brush in one hand and your drink in the other. Choose from a wide variety of pottery pieces to paint and personalize in this laid-back studio setting. No experience needed, you just show up, pick your piece, and let your creativity flow!

Bands on the Horizon

Top picks for live music this month:

• Brody Hunt & The Handfulls – Jul 5 @ The Grey Eagle Patio

• The Broken Hearts: Tribute to Tom Petty – Jul 5 @ The Orange Peel

• Gary Clark Jr. w/ Joy Oladokun – Jul 7 @ Asheville Yards

• Yonder Mountain String Band, Railroad Earth & Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country – Jul 11 @ Asheville Yards

• Iron & Wine & I’m With Her – Jul 12 @ Asheville Yards

…and more mid‑summer highlights:

• The Gaslight Anthem – Jul 16 @ The Orange Peel

• Greensky Bluegrass – Jul 17 @ Asheville Yards

• Red NOT Chili Peppers (tribute) – Jul 17 @ The Orange Peel

• flipturn – Jul 18 @ Asheville Yards

• Abacab: Genesis/Phil Collins Tribute – Jul 18 @ The Orange Peel

• The Silver Doors et al. – Jul 19 @ The Orange Peel

• The Head and The Heart w/ Wild Rivers – Jul 22 @ Asheville Yards

• Silversun Pickups – Jul 29 @ The Orange Peel

Go make something awesome happen this week, Asheville. I’ll see you next Thursday!

Email me here and tell me what you think, or let me know about an event you’re hosting.

Until next week,

-Jason

Jason De Los Santos
Pixelated Stories Digital Marketing
(828) 585-4293