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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Ceramic, NC

Home Care Ceramic, NC

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia in Ceramic, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Ceramic, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Ceramic, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“My brothers and I have been caring for our Mom’s healthcare for the past 2 1/2 years, and in that time the knowledge, support and insight from our consultant, Sandy Bowen, at Always Best Care has made the difference between us feeling like we were suddenly out to sea in completely uncharted waters and finding that we had a competent guide and helper for the journey. There were so many details, both administrative and practical, that we were unaware of, and Sandy was always a step or two ahead of us. She had her eye out for us and our mom and was present and available from the very beginning. She did her job as a caring and compassionate professional who was also a genuine friend and ally. I cannot recommend Always Best Care and Sandy enough! I will definitely continue to tell others about them.”

Hollie R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sandy Bowen met with me when I was first making the hard decision to find a SAFE and loving place for my mom. She listened to all my emotion and to my logistical needs. She answered ALL my questions with empathy, knowledge and experience. She took that information and showed me several places taking into account how difficult it was to balance our financial situation with wanting the best care for my mom. At that point, i hesitated, procrastinated and avoided making a decision. When it became clear to me that i couldn't delay any longer, Sandy told me her honest opinion about the places that would provide what I was looking for. I was still apprehensive. This was not a position I'd ever dreamed of being in. So, I had to go look one more time at the place I felt drawn to. She gladly made the 2nd visit happen. I chose Clemmons Village. It was so clean, the residents looked content and well cared for. The financial aspect was a surprisingly good fit. But mostly, the staff at clemmons village were so kind, helpful and down to earth. Now these past few years have proven this to be the best decision I could've made. Even if we'd been better set financially, looking back i would chosen the same. Everything Sandy did during the whole process was as if she'd done it for her own family. She told the truth. She held my hand, so to speak. And she found exactly what I was looking for. I couldn't be more grateful. I 1000% recommend Sandy Bowen and Always Best Care... they truly live up to the name!”

Pam H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Looking for a placement is always difficult for a family. Contacting Sandy to help was the best option. She was familiar with all assisted living/memory care facilities around town and was quick to respond to the family with tours. She delivered FL2 forms to physician's and made the transition an easy process. I recommend Sandy 100 % for any family needing a smaller community for their elderly family member.”

MATTCH
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been working for ABC for two years now, and I am very grateful for my position. The staff are acceptable, the clients are lovely, and the environments are professional. I highly recommend PCAs and CNAs to apply.”

Samantha T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Such a wonderful place to work! Caregivers that genuinely care with office support that go above and beyond for staff/clients. Highly recommend for employment and senior in-home care support.”

Kelly P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I bn with this company for Abt a year and I love working for them . They work with you,they care about ur personal life/ problems, really good at matching you with good clients..”

Ffbjj B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot say enough good things about this company and the caregivers they provided after my mom's recent accident and stay in a rehab facility. The staff were constantly in communication with us keeping us abreast of any little or big updates. Their attitudes were always helpful and they seemed to genuinely care. The caregivers they sent to sit with and take care of mom were EXCELLENT. I'm not sure how many different caregivers she had over the few weeks of her stay but there wasn't a single one that wasn't kind and extremely helpful. It took a tremendous load off of everyone in our family knowing that she was being well cared for when we couldn't be there. Thank you to Brandi, Joanne, Gina, and anyone I'm missing for everything you all did for us from the beginning of the process all the way to my mom's release today. Hopefully, we won't need your services again, but if we do, I know who I will be calling!”

Beth G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This company is TOP-NOTCH! Incredibly helpful and super friendly. If you’re looking for a part-time in caregiving, this is it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”

MJ F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sandy is very knowledgeable of assisted living options in the Winston Salem area. She helped with a family member’s search with care and consideration. We highly recommend.”

Meredith K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend Sandy Bowen with Always Best Care. I called her with a very tight timeframe to find a suitable memory care facility for my family member. She asked a lot of questions about my loved one to try and get to know her as much as possible. She worked very fast and lined up several appointments for us to tour places within a matter of days. She explained the process to me every step of the way and made sure we stayed on track. She attended the appointments with me and asked questions that I would never think to ask. I can’t thank her enough.”

Ginger M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones”

Michael B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“These folks are so helpful! They care about their clients and it shows in the service! I highly recommend ????”

Mary E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff and caretakers are wonderful. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who needs at home care for themselves or loved ones”

Phillip B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“During an unexpected hospital stay, Joanne provided much needed assistance. She provided excellent care and supportive advocacy. It made dealing with the discomfort more bearable and gave me a safeguard to decipher the complicated choices to resolve health issues. I highly recommend this service.”

Barry C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If you are looking for attentive, quality home care look no further than Joanne and her team. A passion for excellence is driven for from this team. Family oriented and willing to work with all families.”

Laura M.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Ceramic, NC?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Ceramic, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Ceramic, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Ceramic, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Ceramic, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Homestead Park in Ceramic, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Ceramic, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Fearrington House Restaurant or visit North Carolina Pottery Center, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Ceramic, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Ceramic, NC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Ceramic, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Ceramic, NC

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Ceramic, NC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Ceramic, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Ceramic, NC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Ceramic, NC

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Southern Magnolia Living
  • Meadowview Assisted Living Center
  • Searstone Retirement Community
  • Carillon Assisted Living
  • Belle Meade Retirement Community
  • Caremoor Retirement Community
Home Care Ceramic, NC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Ceramic, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Ceramic, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Ceramic, NC

Latest News in Ceramic, NC

Experience the wonders of ceramics in Seagrove, North Carolina

Seagrove, North Carolina may be tiny, but its pottery scene is anything but small.Within a 20-mile radius, about 100 potters live and work, producing everything from utilitarian bowls to dazzling works of art. On a recent trip to Seagrove, I discovered that nearly every back road leads to a potter’s workshop, each one offering a fresh take on the region’s centuries-old clay traditions.My first stop was the North Carolina Pottery Center, whose exhibits describe Native American pottery traditions, the contributions of...

Seagrove, North Carolina may be tiny, but its pottery scene is anything but small.

Within a 20-mile radius, about 100 potters live and work, producing everything from utilitarian bowls to dazzling works of art. On a recent trip to Seagrove, I discovered that nearly every back road leads to a potter’s workshop, each one offering a fresh take on the region’s centuries-old clay traditions.

My first stop was the North Carolina Pottery Center, whose exhibits describe Native American pottery traditions, the contributions of Moravian and Quaker settlers, the rise of art pottery in the 20th century, and the diversity of ceramics done in the state today.

“Before the Industrial Age, potters supplied everyday essentials for their communities,” said Lindsey Lambert, executive director of the North Carolina Pottery Center. “In North Carolina, the tradition endured long after it disappeared in most places, thanks to the state’s rich clay deposits and families who passed down their skills through generations.”

Seagrove in particular became a bustling hub for ceramics, its potters continuing to create sturdy jugs, pitchers and other vessels for everyday use. Over time, that practical tradition has expanded to include artists who push the boundaries of form, glaze and color. A highlight of the center is a showcase of representative work from area potters, giving visitors a sense for the range of artistry here that’s helpful before heading out on their own for studio visits.

With just a couple of hundred residents, Seagrove is a place to slow down, linger in studios and shops, and experience creativity at close range. My first stop was Seagrove Creations, a gallery devoted to local potters and artisans. While the North Carolina Pottery Center highlights representative pieces, Seagrove Creations brims with shelves of pottery ready to be wrapped up and carried home.

Seagrove is 90 minutes east of Charlotte. While some studios are open daily, visiting Wednesday through Saturday offers the best chance of seeing the most potters. Check discoverseagrove.com for events that include demonstrations, classes, open houses and kiln openings.

The Seagrove Stoneware Inn and Duck Smith House Bed & Breakfast offer lodging in Seagrove; additional lodging is available in Asheboro. For dining, try the Seagrove Café for salads and sandwiches. The General Wine & Brew often has food trucks, while La Fiesta Mexicana serves inexpensive and tasty Mexican food. In Asheboro, be sure to visit The Table, a landmark restaurant located in a former textile mill office. For more travel information, see heartofnorthcarolina.com.

Guided by a Pottery Map (a brochure available everywhere in town), I headed into the countryside. A short drive brought me to Matthew Kelly’s studio, where I learned that Seagrove potters tend to emphasize collaboration rather than competition. That spirit is part of what has made Seagrove such a vibrant community, he told me, where tradition and innovation constantly mingle.

“Potters here don’t work in isolation,” said Kelly, a master potter who also has a large following for his instructional videos on YouTube. “We share kilns, trade tips and encourage each other.”

Kelly also emphasized the difference between seeing pottery online and experiencing it in person.

“Pottery has exploded on social media, which is good for us, of course,” he said. “But more than most art forms, you really have to hold a piece of pottery to fully appreciate it. You need to feel its texture and weight and see how the light plays across its surface. That’s why people come to Seagrove: to encounter a wide range of pottery in one place and to meet the people who make it.”

Throughout the day, I wandered into other studios and met other potters as well. Crystal King, who comes from a pottery-making family, is particularly known for her whimsical hand-built sculptures, often with Biblical themes. Bobbie Thomas creates kitchenware pieces that often include a recipe. at The General Wine & Brew, the bartender was Fiva McCanless, who proudly showed me samples of her playful pottery on her phone. In Seagrove, it seems, potters are everywhere.

After hours of admiring finished pieces, the next day I wanted to feel the clay in my own hands, so I returned to the North Carolina Pottery Center for a beginner’s class taught by artist Cat Viera. At the wheel, I discovered that clay demands both patience and precision. My first attempt wobbled and slumped, but with Viera’s gentle coaching, the lump of clay was transformed — imperfect, but recognizably a cup.

“We’ll glaze and fire it and ship it home to you,” she said. “It’s a nice way for visitors to be part of Seagrove’s pottery traditions.”

Working with clay, even for a short time, gave me a newfound respect for the skill involved. Every curve and ridge in a finished piece reflects not only artistic talent but also hours of practice, failure and persistence. And it made me appreciate even more the finished works I saw in studio after studio: mugs whose handles fit perfectly in the hand, bowls with glazes that shimmered like water, vases with clean lines that seemed both sturdy and delicate.

Another good way to experience Seagrove is to plan your visit around one of the town’s special events, when studios open their doors and the whole community buzzes with activity. The Celebration of Seagrove Potters on the weekend before Thanksgiving is one of the biggest, drawing visitors and collectors from around the country. Other popular events include Potters Pumpkin Patch in October, when six women-led studios host tours, and the Seagrove Wood Fire Tour in June, which showcases potters who keep alive the labor-intensive tradition of wood-fired kilns.

As I drove away, a beautiful plate that I’d purchased riding safely in the back seat, I thought about what makes Seagrove so special. It isn’t just the abundance of studios or the variety of pottery styles, but even more the sense of community and the willingness of artists to open their doors and help visitors experience the wonders of ceramics.

In an age when so much art is consumed through screens, Seagrove preserves the tactile, the handmade and the enduring.

While pottery is the main attraction in Seagrove, it’s not the only attraction in the region. A 20-minute drive takes you to the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, the largest natural habitat zoo in the world. With 1,800 animals spread out along a five-mile walking trail, the zoo is also a leader in wildlife and field conservation efforts across more than 10 countries. See nczoo.org for information.

Take a Class at Pullen Arts Center

Check out some upcoming classes at Pullen Arts Center, and use the links below to register online!For a full list of classes available, visit RecLink or preview upcoming classes and programs in the Leisure Ledger.Youth & TeenYouth Pottery - Gratitude PlaqueInstructor: Sue ChegariAges: 9-12Fee: $60 resident / $75 non-residentDate and Time: Saturdays, Nov. 1 - 8, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.Register for Youth Pottery - Gratitude PlaqueYoung pott...

Check out some upcoming classes at Pullen Arts Center, and use the links below to register online!

For a full list of classes available, visit RecLink or preview upcoming classes and programs in the Leisure Ledger.

Youth & Teen

Youth Pottery - Gratitude Plaque

Instructor: Sue ChegariAges: 9-12Fee: $60 resident / $75 non-residentDate and Time: Saturdays, Nov. 1 - 8, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.Register for Youth Pottery - Gratitude Plaque

Young potters will get the opportunity to craft their own one-of-a-kind ceramic gratitude plaque. It will be a visual reminder of something they are truly grateful for. We will first learn hand-building techniques then learn how to apply colorful glazes. Projects will be left for firing and available for pickup 2-3 weeks after the last class. All supplies included. 2 sessions. Instructor: Sue Chegari.

Youth Painting - Draw and Paint: Penguins

Instructor: Kim LomaxAges: 8-12Fee: $60 resident / $75 non-residentDate and Time: Wednesdays, Dec. 3 - 10, 5 - 7 p.m.Register for Youth Painting - Draw and Paint: Penguins

Join us as we dive into the wonderful world of penguins! We will learn to draw penguins in pencil and Micron pen, in addition to exploring new techniques in color application with colored pencil and watercolor. 2 sessions. Instructor: Kim Lomax

Teen Printmaking - Mini Prints

Instructor: Jocelyn SteslickeAges: 13-16Fee: $50 resident / $65 non-residentDate and Time: Sundays, Nov. 9 - 16, 2:30 - 4 p.m.Register for Teen Printmaking - Mini Prints

Interested in printmaking but not sure you’re ready to commit to a full, multi-week class? Maybe you aren’t even sure what a printmaking class entails? Join us for this smaller class for a taste of lino block prints! We will spend the first session focusing on learning how to carve a design into a block and the second session dedicated to all that goes into printing those blocks. Find out if this is something that interests you by making a small print that can be finished in just two class sessions! All supplies included. Instructor: Jocelyn Steslicke.

Adult

Painting - Anthropomorphic Cats

Instructor: Anna PodrisAges: 16+Fee: $72.50 resident / $87.50 non-residentDate and Time: Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25 - 26, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.Register for Painting - Anthropomorphic Cats

Using cats as our muses, we will create a multi-faceted painting exploring the many fascinating and magical traits of the feline species. Students are welcome to use oils or acrylics. Supply list prints on receipt. 2 sessions. Instructor: Anna Podris.

Jewelry - Intro to Kiln Fired Enamel

Instructor: Amy VeatchAges: 16+Fee: $173 resident / $188 non-residentDate and Time: Mondays, Nov. 3 - Dec. 15, 1 - 4 p.m. (No class Dec. 1)Register for Jewelry - Intro to Kiln Fired Enamel

This class is designed for the aspiring enamellist. Starting with the absolute basics, we will explore color on metal with transparent and opaque enamels. The sky’s the limit; there will be tons of room for experimentation! Students will come away with the basic knowledge and confidence to enamel oodles of samples to make into finished jewelry. All supplies included, except copper, which can be purchased through the Pullen Arts Center supply store. 6 sessions. Instructor: Amy Veatch.

Mixed Media - Media Exploration II

Instructor: Jocelyn SteslickeAges: 16+Fee: $162 resident / $177 non-residentDate and Time: Mondays, Nov. 3 - Dec. 8, 6 - 9 p.m.Register for Mixed Media - Media Exploration II

In this class we will focus on creating one composition that we will repeat in four different mediums; illustration, stitching, lino print, and sculptural collage. The aim of this class is to focus on different processes and see how that could affect the type of image that we started with. By using the same image for all four iterations, we can place them side by side to see the differences in stark contrast. Play with different mediums and possibly learn something new, all while creating four thought provoking works of art that can be displayed together or separately. A $10 fee to the instructor will cover all materials. 6 sessions. Instructor: Jocelyn Steslicke.

Jewelry - Flush Setting Basics

Instructor: Sarah WestAges: 16+Fee: $109 resident / $124 non-residentDate and Time: Sundays, Nov. 9 - 16, 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Register for Jewelry - Flush Setting Basics

Adding stones to a piece of jewelry can really make your designs shine! This class is will get you comfortable with the basics of flush setting. First, students practice setting stones on a copper plate. Once comfortable, students can choose a design and create a finished piece of jewelry with flush set stones. Students should bring Optivisors and or magnifying glasses if they have them. The studio will have some to share. All other materials will be provided! Prerequisite: Beginning and Continuing Jewelry at Pullen or Sertoma Arts Center. 2 sessions. Instructor: Sarah West.

Pottery - Wall Hearts

Instructor: Julie RoweAges: 16+Fee: $100 resident / $115 non-residentDate and Time: Mondays, Nov. 10 - Dec. 1, 2 - 4:30 p.m.Register for Pottery - Wall Hearts

With previous hand building experience, the instructor will guide you through designing and creating a sacred or profane heart to hang on your wall or to give as a gift. The instructor will share some of her personal templates and tools so you can create a dynamic wall piece with ease. Students should plan to purchase clay from Pullen Arts Center. Underglazes are included. 4 sessions. Instructor: Julie Rowe.

Mixed Media - Ornament Marbling Workshop

Instructor: Zeynep GuvencAges: 16+Fee: $45 resident / $60 non-residentDate and Time: Sunday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.Register for Mixed Media - Ornament Marbling Workshop

This one-day workshop introduces students to traditional Ebru marbling on paper, followed by marbling a ceramic ornament. Each participant will create their own colorful, handmade ornament to take home. No experience needed! All supplies included. 1 session. Instructor: Zeynep Guvenc.

Printmaking - Silkscreen Monoprinting Workshop

Instructor: Alexandra ZuckermanAges: 16+Fee: $62 resident / $77 non-residentDate and Time: Sunday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Register for Printmaking - Silkscreen Monoprinting Workshop

This one-day workshop will introduce students to the possibilities of variable screenprinting on paper. We will create multi-layer designs as a class and explore several monoprinting techniques, including use of watercolor crayons and split fountains to create unique artworks. Students will learn the mechanics of printing and registration as well as approaches to creative decision-making and planning prints. Beginning, intermediate, and advanced skill levels are welcome! This is a great introduction for artists curious about screenprinting and more painterly approaches to printmaking. Supply list prints on receipt and a supply fee of approximately $12 is due to the instructor at the beginning of class to cover additional materials. 1 session. Instructor: Alexandra Zuckerman.

Annual Potters Market returning to Mint Museum Randolph, featuring western North Carolina artists impacted by Helene

The Annual Potters Market returns to Mint Museum Randolph this Saturday, marking its 19th year and showcasing over 50 ceramic artists from North Carolina.CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Annual Potters Market is returning to Mint Museum Randolph this weekend, featuring over 50 of the top ceramic artists in North Carolina.The event, happening this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., is the 19th annual Potters Market, and is the largest pottery sale in the state.Museum officials said this year's event has "added meaning,"...

The Annual Potters Market returns to Mint Museum Randolph this Saturday, marking its 19th year and showcasing over 50 ceramic artists from North Carolina.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Annual Potters Market is returning to Mint Museum Randolph this weekend, featuring over 50 of the top ceramic artists in North Carolina.

The event, happening this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., is the 19th annual Potters Market, and is the largest pottery sale in the state.

Museum officials said this year's event has "added meaning," as it falls on the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, which devastated western North Carolina and impacted many potters and other artists across the region.

"In a show of solidarity and support, more than 30 artists from that region will be among the featured exhibitors," the museum said.

Potters will set up on the front lawn of Mint Museum Randolph located at 2730 Randolph Road. Pottery will be available for purchase at the event, and attendees can interact with the makers, listen to live music, watch pottery demonstrations, and enjoy the beer garden and food concessions.

The Potters Market ticket includes admission to Mint Museum Randolph.

This isn't the first time the Charlotte community has rallied around artists impacted by Helene. Back in December, over 30 western North Carolina potters were featured at the WNC Hurricane Relief Potters Market at the Park Expo and Conference Center. That event was a collaboration between The Mint Museum, Spruce Pine Potters Market, NC Pottery Center, Odyssey Clayworks, Potters of Madison County, and Toe River Arts District.

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