2013 Women Entrepreneurs, Best in Business

At the 116th Annual Meeting in June, the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce honored outstanding companies and individuals.  

This year the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce set out to launch a new award honoring women in our business community. The Women Entrepreneurs, Best in Business Award, sponsored by Webb Investment Services and Verve Magazine, recognizes a woman who demonstrates the transformation of her dream into reality and who exhibits the traits of an entrepreneur such as: willingness to take risk, personal drive, focus, innovation and business acumen.

Candidates are nominated by members of the community and the winner is chosen by a selection committee comprised of Chamber staff and local business women.

This year's award goes to Julie Stehling of Early Girl Eatery. Julie's down-to-earth, friendly manner has earned her a great reputation and respect in the community. Julie and her husband have created a thriving business founded on great food and friendly service. The couple opened the restaurant in 2001 with a strong commitment to locally sourced food. Verve Magazine's July 2013 issue included a profile of Julie.