Cashiers Designer Showhouse
SPECIAL EVENTS
2025 SPECICAL EVENTS
Celebrate design and community with a variety of unique events, each offering a memorable way to connect and support the Cashiers Historical Society.
Opening Night Party:
Stargazer Gala
Thursday, August 21, 2025
6:00pm – 9:30 pm
BLUE STAR RANCH
The Cashiers Historical Society and Opening Night Party Chairs, Wendy Barze & Helen Butcher, invite you to the most anticipated event of the season—the Opening Night Party of the annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse!
This year, we are celebrating under the Carolina sky at the Stargazer Gala.
In honor of our 28th year, join us at the stunning Blue Star Ranch, a private horse ranch nestled on a 170-acre expanse. Experience a Western-inspired evening filled with unforgettable style, festive celebration, and timeless rustic charm. Savor signature cocktails and delicious fare, customize your own bespoke hat with Highlands Hatter, and dance under the stars to live music by Smokey Jones and The Three Dollar Pistols. Together, we’ll toast this year’s Showhouse, our twelve fabulous designers, and our 2025 Showhouse Chair, Rowanne McKnight!
Attire: Western Couture — Women, think denim, diamonds, and boots—or opt for a summer dress paired with boots, a tailored jacket, and a cowboy hat. Men, consider tailored denim or dress pants, worn with boots, a crisp button-down shirt, and a Western-style jacket or cowboy hat.
Tickets: Available exclusively through Sponsorship and select Benefactor packages.
CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BENEFACTOR PACKAGES
All proceeds benefit the Cashiers Historical Society and support its mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Cashiers Valley.
“Creating Spaces, Honoring Nature” Designer Panel Luncheon
Friday, August 22, 2025
11:00am – 1:00pm
CANYON KITCHEN AT LONESOME VALLEY
Join celebrated architects Tim Adams and Brandy Long, along with renowned interior designers Barrie Benson and James Farmer, as they unveil their visionary approach to “Creating Spaces, Honoring Nature.” Hosted at Lonesome Valley’s Canyon Kitchen and moderated by Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Publisher Elizabeth Ralls, this panel explores how to balance preserving the natural environment while creating unique spaces that reflect and honor the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy a delectable buffet-style lunch complemented by mimosas. This insightful event will inspire you to create spaces that harmonize with your surroundings in your own home—an experience you don’t want to miss!
>CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Tickets for this event are $175.00. All proceeds benefit the Cashiers Historical Society and support its mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Cashiers Valley.
Tradition Made New by Timothy S. Adams — Book Signing
Friday, August 22, 2025
3:00pm – 5:00pm
TOBY WEST HOME
Architect Tim Adams of Atlanta, GA presents his book, Tradition Made New. This beautifully curated book features ten of Adams’ recently designed homes, located in diverse landscapes from the coastal shores of Florida and the bluegrass hills of Kentucky to the mountains of North Carolina. Each home reflects Adams’ signature style: the resonance of tradition, the authenticity of craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of natural materials. Informed by his deep knowledge of historic precedents, proportion, and detail, the homes featured in the book are imbued with soul. Guests will have the special opportunity to meet Tim Adams in person during an intimate meet-and-greet and book signing at Toby West Home.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
This event is free and open to the public. Please contact Toby West Home with questions.
Candle Making Workshop with Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust
Saturday, August 23, 2025
10:00am – 12:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Join the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust for a hands-on workshop where you’ll create your own candle using all-natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter. These eco-friendly candles not only smell great—they can also be used as a soothing moisturizer once melted!
Participants will heat and blend ingredients on-site, then pour their custom mixture into glass containers provided by HCLT.
What to Bring:
• A pair of gloves (heat-resistant or latex)
• Your favorite fragrance (essential oil or perfume oil) to personalize your candle
• Flowers if you want them in your candle
Perfect for nature lovers, crafters, and those looking to create a thoughtful, all-natural gift. Don’t miss this cozy and creative workshop!
>CLICK TO REGISTER
*THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710.
Talkin’ Bourbon with Blade and Bow
Saturday, August 23, 2025
1:00pm – 2:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Bourbon is more than just a glass of whiskey; it’s a lifestyle. It's a celebration of a historical craft, a way of bringing people together. It extends into the culinary world and often influences one’s style and offerings at home.
Join Brand Ambassador Eli Privette as he shares the history and craftsmanship of Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky and the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville, KY. Engage in insightful conversations about bourbon while sampling fine selections.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public for individuals 21 years of age and older. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710
Embracing Southern Homes by Eric Ross — Book Signing
Saturday, August 23, 2025
4:00pm – 6:00pm
VIVIANNE METZGER ANTIQUES
Professional Interior Designer Eric Ross of Nashville, TN presents his newest book, Embracing Southern Homes—a beautiful showcase of the lush and layered interiors he has designed. Following the success of his first book, Enduring Southern Homes (Gibbs Smith, 2019), this new book continues the exploration of Southern hospitality with stunning new homes that combine classic elegance with unique and artisanal touches that bring character. Guests will have the special opportunity to meet Eric Ross in person during an intimate meet-and-greet and book signing at Vivianne Metzger Antiques.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
This event is free and open to the public. Please contact Vivianne Metzger Antiques with questions.
Art Play for Grown-Ups:
Seasons on Canvas
Sunday, August 24, 2025
11:00am – 12:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Unleash your inner artist and reconnect with the joy of creating at Art Play for Grown-Ups: Seasons on Canvas—a lively, hands-on session with Showhouse Artists Jessie Mackay, Cynthia Perryman, and Brenda Sulmonetti.
In this no-pressure, all-fun environment, participants will collaborate on three large canvases, each celebrating a season in the mountains—Spring, Summer, and Fall. With oil paint sticks as your only tool (no brushes, no turpentine!), it’s all about mark-making, color, and playful expression!
What to Bring:
• A love of color
• A child’s enthusiasm
• An apron (or wear your painting clothes!)
Whether you consider yourself an artist or just want to play like one for the day, this is your invitation to make bold marks, celebrate the seasons, and create something joyful—together.
Picasso: “Every child is an Artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
A big thank you to JFM Enterprises for donating canvases for this event!
>CLICK TO REGISTER
*THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710.
The Bascom: Connecting Communities Through the Visual Arts
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
1:00pm – 2:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Billy Love, Executive Director of The Bascom, and Ned Turnbull, a Cashiers resident and talented pottery artist. Together, they will share their personal stories and showcase artwork that reflects the rich culture and unique spirit of the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau. Celebrate the power of art to bring people together and discover what makes our community so special.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710.
Bluegrass, Bourbon, & Beyond:
A Young Preservationist Event
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
5:00pm – 7:00pm
THE ORCHARD RESTAURANT
Bluegrass, Bourbon & Beyond – A Young Preservationist Event is a new addition to this year’s Cashiers Designer Showhouse. Hosted by the Cashiers Historical Society, this lively gathering brings together the younger generation in a fun, social setting.
Guests will enjoy live music by The Kooks of Hazard, an engaging discussion on the history of bourbon led by Blade and Bow, a build-your-own mint julep bar, and a selection of delicious hors d’oeuvres. The evening also features custom hat styling and classic lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga—perfect for a little friendly competition!
Bluegrass, Bourbon, & Beyond is part of a larger initiative to grow the Historical Society’s Young Preservationists program and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation to engage with and support the mission of the Cashiers Historical Society.
>CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Tickets for this event are $40.00. All proceeds benefit the Cashiers Historical Society and support its mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Cashiers Valley.
Sweets, Stories & Southern Charm — An Afternoon with Anne Byrn
Thursday, August 28, 2025
2:00pm – 4:00pm
PERSONAL RESIDENCE
Spend the afternoon at a private residence in Chimney Top with New York Times bestselling and beloved cookbook author Anne Byrn. Byrn will share heartfelt stories of baking in the South and demonstrate how to make a classic layer cake.
Enjoy an intimate gathering where you'll sip champagne, enjoy delicious bites from The Village Pantry, and savor a sweet taste of Southern hospitality with Anne herself!
Shuttle service will be provided. Please arrive at the Cashiers Historical Society by 1:45 p.m. for transportation to the residence. The shuttle will return guests at 4:15 p.m.
>CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Tickets for this event are $175.00 and include a copy of Baking in the American South by Anne Byrn and other delightful surprises. All proceeds benefit the Cashiers Historical Society and support its mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Cashiers Valley.
Garden to Vase: A Floral Affair
A Luncheon Celebration of North Carolina Blooms
Friday, August 29, 2025
11:30am – 2:00pm
THE COUNTRY CLUB OF SAPPHIRE VALLEY
Step into a world of floral beauty and creative inspiration at Garden to Vase: A Floral Affair, an afternoon where North Carolina’s vibrant flowers—and your creativity—take center stage. Begin with a refreshing signature cocktail as you mingle in a garden-inspired setting, then enjoy an engaging presentation by floral designer Meghan Lock, who will share her tips for crafting stunning arrangements with fresh-cut yard blooms and market flowers. After the demonstration, it’s your turn to design: with expert guidance and a bounty of beautiful blooms, you’ll create your own arrangement to take home in a keepsake vase. The experience includes:
A signature welcome cocktail
A dynamic floral design demonstration
Hands-on arrangement session with expert guidance
A delicious catered lunch
Tips, tricks, and inspiration to elevate your floral skills
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply flower-curious, this is a joyful celebration of community, creativity, and natural beauty. This event is chaired by Rebecca Alexander and Shelley Gray. We can't wait to bloom with you!
>CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Tickets for this event are $200.00 and include a floral-themed gift bag and a floral display to take home. All proceeds benefit the Cashiers Historical Society and support its mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Cashiers Valley.
Understanding & Mapping Landslides: Protecting Lives and Property
Friday, August 29, 2025
1:00pm – 2:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Landslides are one of the most fatal natural disasters in Western North Carolina, and many residents are unaware of this geologic hazard. Often triggered by heavy rainfall, landslides can devastate homes, roads, and infrastructure. Jennifer Bryson Bauer, Principal Geologist and co-owner of Appalachian Landslide Consultants, PLLC in Asheville, will explain the types of landslides that occur in the region, share tools for assessing hazards, and offer guidance on protecting life and property.
Jennifer Bryson Bauer is a Highlands native and UNC-Chapel Hill graduate. She began her career in engineering geology in 2001. From 2005 to 2011, she worked with the North Carolina Geological Survey’s Landslide Hazard Mapping team. With over 20 years of experience, she is passionate about helping communities make informed decisions to reduce risk and increase resilience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leading expert and gain valuable insights into one of the region’s most pressing natural hazards.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710.
Botanical and Bird Motifs:
A Pottery Design Demonstration with Christina Bendo
Saturday, August 30, 2025
1:00pm – 2:00pm
THE VILLAGE GREEN PAVILION
Join studio potter and educator Christina Bendo for an inspiring pottery demonstration that blends artistry with Appalachian tradition. Based in Waynesville, NC, Christina brings years of experience shaped by residencies across the U.S. and abroad, as well as a deep passion for teaching at Haywood Community College and beyond.
In this special program, Christina will demonstrate how she creates the distinctive designs on her wood-fired, salt-glazed pottery. Using colored slips and wax resist, she will paint botanical and bird motifs inspired by the native species of our mountain region.
As she works, Christina will share stories of her journey through the world of ceramics—from her time at the Jackson County Green Energy Park to her connection with North Carolina’s rich pottery heritage. You’ll gain insight into her artistic process, creative inspirations, and the enduring legacy of pottery in our region.
Whether you're a lover of local art, a pottery enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of craft and nature, this event promises to be a meaningful and visually captivating experience.
>CLICK TO REGISTER
Tickets: This event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Please register online to reserve your spot. If you need to cancel, please contact the Cashiers Historical Society at (828) 743-7710.
LOOKING FOR EVEN MORE TO DO?
The Cashiers Historical Society has variety of wonderful events, exhibits, and programs throughout the year.
Get in Touch
For sponsorship, designer, and vendor opportunities — please contact the Cashiers Designer Showhouse Coordinator at cds@cashiershistoricalsociety.org.
For general questions, please call the CHS office at 828-743-7710, fill out the form below, or email info@cashiershistoricalsociety.org.
