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Biltmore Village shop rises from the mud after Helene destruction

Biltmore Village shop rises from the mud after Helene destruction

Photo: Contributed/White Lotus Boutique


ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A year after Tropical Storm Helene destroyed their business, the owners of White Lotus Boutique in Biltmore Village are preparing to reopen their doors.

Co-owner Angela Maleh said the women’s clothing boutique was a total loss in 2024 when floodwaters swept through Asheville. With no flood insurance on the shop, the owners were forced to rebuild from scratch.

White Lotus Boutique
White Lotus Boutique

After 12 months of recovery and reconstruction, White Lotus Boutique will celebrate its grand reopening on Sunday, Nov. 2, marking a symbolic comeback for the small business.

“We lost everything,” Maleh said in a news release. “But what we gained was an incredible reminder of faith, perseverance and the power of community. White Lotus will always be a symbol of beauty rising through the mud.”

The grand reopening event will include local music, refreshments, giveaways, exclusive discounts and community appreciation activities. The Malehs are inviting Asheville residents and community leaders to attend and celebrate the milestone.

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