ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Nearly a year after Tropical Storm Helene’s floodwaters washed away her dream business in Biltmore Village, salon owner Caitlyn Patch has reopened Rustic Ritual Beauty in a new location near downtown Asheville.
Patch, a single mother of twins and a veteran of more than two decades in the beauty industry, launched her salon and spa in May 2024 at 51 Thompson St. Less than four months later, Helene sent the nearby Swannanoa River surging more than 26 feet, leaving the shop in ruins.
“It has been a tough year in so many ways,” Patch said. “But my heartache was replaced with grit and determination — and now, I’m thrilled to join our community as we celebrate the spirit that helped us make it through the storm.”
Rustic Ritual has reopened at 244 Short Coxe Ave. in Asheville’s South Slope neighborhood. The space, Patch said, offers a light-filled atmosphere for locals and visitors to enjoy clean beauty treatments and products. She credited family, friends, community groups such as Operation Blessing, and longtime clients for helping her relaunch.
The business will mark its reopening by participating in a daylong “How Far We’ve Come” community event on Sunday, Sept. 28, on Short Coxe Avenue. Neighboring businesses, including Sauna House, Mother bakery and Farewell Coffee, will join in offering yoga, Pilates, wood-fired pizza and more. Proceeds will benefit local organizations supporting Helene recovery efforts.
