The Best-Kept Secret to Bringing Your Dream Home to Life

The Best-Kept Secret to Bringing Your Dream Home to Life:

Meet the Preferred Builders of Bright’s Creek

Planning, budgeting, timing, oh my! Without the right resources in place, building a custom mountain home in North Carolina can be daunting. But at Bright’s Creek, our preferred home builders have tried-and-true processes in place that set you up for success. They bring a wealth of experience to anyone in our special community who wants to build the custom home of their dreams. With deep roots designing homes in the mountains of Western North Carolina, our trusted team knows the lay of the land like no one else. With their expert guidance you’ll maximize your views, understand your lot’s layout and how to smartly utilize the space, get the luxe finishes and artisan materials you deserve, and discover the unique opportunities that await — all with the region’s top builders leading the way.

Whether you’re ready to be hands-on in your custom built home process, or want to see your mountain oasis come to fruition from the sidelines, you’ll be well taken care of thanks to our highly communicative network of experts by your side.

This month, we’re bringing you exclusive interviews with our preferred custom home builders and actual homeowners who have built at Bright’s Creek. Hear from them below and learn how their unique specialties can make your mountain retreat a reality, effortlessly.


Highland Design & Construction

A family-owned company spanning three generations of builders, carpenters, and craftsmen.

Q: What are the unique opportunities of building in WNC?

A: WNC offers many unique opportunities for a builder, especially in Bright’s Creek.  This development draws the interest of some very special people. I find a unique opportunity in every person I encounter here, to get to know them and understand how I can better serve them as a builder.

Q: How do you keep clients who live out of state informed?

A: We have a wonderful CSM tool called BuilderTrend, which allows our clients a real-time view of their project. This includes photos, daily production reports, budget details, updated plans, procurement items, a link to Pinterest pins and a private messaging portal. Our team is proficient in using this tool and makes the process of building remotely a relatively seamless experience.

Q: How do you kick off your process?

A: Personal relationships with our clients are the main focus of our business.  We like to get to know them, learn more about their lives and develop a deep understanding of what kind of home they want to build.

Learn more


Morgan-Keefe Builders

A premier luxury home builder inspired by the natural beauty of Western North Carolina.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about building in WNC?

A: One of the most rewarding factors of building in WNC is creating legacy homes for our clients and getting to share the amazing environment that we call home with new people every year. Building in WNC has afforded us friendships and partnerships that are unique to the allure of this area.

Q: What are the unique opportunities of building in WNC?

A: Because of the topography, we have the opportunity to build homes uniquely fitted to the steep terrain, which at times can allow for magnificent views of the mountains and valleys from nearly every room in a home. We discuss in depth the wants and needs with the client and pair that to the best of our ability with the layout of the site, in order to maximize their happiness and usability of their home.

Q: How do you keep clients informed?

A:. In order to stay on schedule and keep clients updated on the progress of their build, they have access to weekly reports and progress pictures. They’re provided with selection timelines so they know when they’ll need to make the decisions on the final products, colors, and materials that will be incorporated into their home.

Learn more


Mountain Sky Builders

An experienced, sustainability-focused team providing turn-key construction, design consulting, and project management.

Q: Tell us about your building process.

A: Customer satisfaction is the top priority for us, and we specialize in personally engaging our clients throughout the entire project life cycle. From working with lenders, through design and build, to interior decorating we offer a turnkey solution to building needs.  We are hands-on and accessible builders with attention to detail and commitment to superb quality and craftsmanship.

Q: What would you tell someone who is nervous about building a custom home?

A: We have a proven and repeatable process from client ideas through home completion. Our mission is to assist in creating a space that integrates form, functionality, and aesthetics. We are perfectionists with a focus on quality and keen attention to detail. We partner with our clients every step of the way to ensure that we deliver homes that match their vision.

Q: Tell us about your communication process with clients.

A: As degreed and certified Project Managers, we focus on keeping our clients informed through clear, concise, and consistent communications that are tailored to each client’s preferences and desires.  We offer transparent correspondence throughout the project life cycle and solicit feedback continuously.

Learn more


AR Homes logo

AR Homes

AR Homes has their own model homes, architectural designer, interior designer, design studio, and a talented team of new construction specialists, construction managers and project coordinators.

Q: What would you tell someone who is nervous about building a custom home?

A: We’ve developed a very simple, streamlined process for building your dream home and we make it an enjoyable journey for you! By having an in-house architectural designer, we save you a great deal of money and time by not having to hire an outside architect. Starting with one of our plans and customizing it can make the process even easier. Having our own Design Studio and Interior Designer is a wonderful benefit! We have a great team to help you every step of the building process.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about building in WNC?

A: This is such a beautiful area! The mountain views are breathtaking. We’re able to build homes that maximize those views. We love seeing our clients’ faces when they stand in their Great Room, or on their back deck or covered porch, or even their front porch and see the views for the first time.

Q: What do you like most about building in Bright’s Creek?

A: We’re thrilled to be a preferred builder in Bright’s Creek. What an amazing community! Their beauty is unrivaled in WNC and the amenities are wonderful.

Learn more


Living Stone logo

Living Stone

Living Stone homes are green by design, with mindfully selected elements to make your home a happier, healthier place to be.

Q: What would you tell someone who is nervous about building a custom home?

A: We’ve been building homes in Asheville and the surrounding area for over 27 years. Thanks to our mission of building happier and healthier lives with no regrets, you can rest assured that your dream and vision is in good hands.

Q: What are the unique opportunities of building in WNC?

A: The homes we build look out among some of the most amazing views or coveted neighborhoods — and watching the project come together in these environments makes for an amazing experience. The land is highly sought after so having the ability to improve the land and build a forever home for someone is in itself an incredible opportunity.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about building in WNC?

A: Every lot offers its own unique set of challenges and topography that makes for an exciting build and sense of pride when completed. The seasons here make for a pretty incredible backdrop, from the spring flowers of the dogwoods to the fall colors of the majestic oaks. Combine that with the people that choose to make this place home, and you can really see what makes this place special.

Learn more


Buchanan Construction logo

Buchanan Construction 

A full-service, award-winning construction firm offering a vast array of services in the luxury home space.

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Hear from Bright’s Creek Homeowners

Don’t take our word for it. We chatted with some of Bright’s Creek homeowners to hear more about their custom home building process and learned why they fell in love with our North Carolina mountain community.

“We live in France, so building a custom house while living abroad seemed crazy – until we talked to our builder. We could see he was exceptionally organised and knew exactly how to plan ahead. The house is nearing completion and we have had no serious delays or major glitches. Our wonderful on-site manager regularly sends pictures and progress updates. The communication has been excellent. What more could you ask for?” – Denise Schubert and Randy Miller

“We look forward to settling into our new custom mountain home, meeting new friends and experiencing all the great activities that Bright’s Creek and the surrounding areas have to offer.”– Kathee & Pierre Muldermans

“We felt very comfortable the moment we arrived. We knew Bright’s Creek was home as soon as we saw it. It has everything we were looking for in a second home. Great golf course, spectacular views. The surrounding area has much to offer as well. Our builders were very encouraging and helpful. We enjoyed seeing the progress and customizing the details.” – Paul & Patty Mack

Ready to bring your Bright’s Creek home to life? With your choice of expert builders specializing in a variety of styles fit for your family, it’s easier than ever to make your dreams come true.

Contact our real estate team directly at (828) 600-5132 to start your journey today.

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The Magic of Mill Spring: Celebrate the Holiday Season the Local Way

The Magic of Mill Spring: Celebrate the Holiday Season the Local Way

There’s a special kind of magic in Western North Carolina during the holiday season. With an abundance of stunning natural amenities, sprawling views, and tons of festive fun in the area, there’s no better place to call home this season than right here at Bright’s Creek.

You’ll find fantastic Western NC events in abundance all year round — but the holidays hold something extraordinary. From romantic retreats to family-friendly adventures, this month is all about the area’s best holiday events for everyone to enjoy.

 

1. Explore Enchanting Christmas Displays & Handmade Gifts in Asheville

Holiday events in Asheville make this lively city shine brighter than ever! Less than an hour’s drive from Bright’s Creek, it’s the perfect festive day trip for the whole family. Shop mountain-made gifts for everyone on your list by local makers. Check out this 2022 Asheville Holiday Gift Guide and make holiday shopping easy. Plus, don’t miss the North Asheville Tailgate Market’s Holiday Bazaar on the beautiful UNC Asheville campus for even more unique gifts.

Beyond the shopping, Asheville is home to incredible Christmas displays like the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Grover Park Inn. This amazing display runs from November 28-January 2nd and is a local tradition you won’t want to miss! Experience the stunning feats of edible architecture and get into the holiday spirit. Be sure to explore this amazing holiday guide featuring 50 of the best events this season.

Searching for even more holiday events in Asheville? No trip to the area is complete without a visit to America’s largest home, The Biltmore Estate. Experience more than 100 hand-decorated trees in this dazzling display that dates back more than 120 years. Enjoy the magical ambiance complete with 1,960 live poinsettias, 1,000 feet of fresh evergreen garlands, thousands of twinkling lights, and so much more. Stroll on a self-guided tour and listen to amazing musicians throughout the house — and don’t miss the delicious seasonal dishes offered by the estate’s many incredible restaurants. Plus, their exclusive Candlelight Christmas Evenings offer an amazing way to see the grounds all aglow. Book your tickets and learn more here.

 

2. Experience a Storybook Scene in Hendersonville

From early November through New Year’s Day, Hendersonville welcomes visitors to come “Home for the Holidays.” This charming town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains truly gets into the holiday spirit. Shops on Main Street are decorated for the holidays and feature gifts for everyone’s wish lists. Locals and visitors alike enjoy carriage rides, visits with Santa, a Christmas parade and tree lighting, tons of twinkling lights, markets, special shopping events, festive performances, and so much more. 

Searching for sweets and stunning holiday scenes? The whole family will enjoy the 2022 Holiday Tour of Inns & Cookie Caper where you’ll walk through decorated historic inns and enjoy cookies along the way.

Don’t miss some of the best Christmas events in Western North Carolina! Check out Hendersonville’s holiday events here

 

3. Discover the Tryon Resort Christmas Market

Just down the road at the Tryon Resort, you’ll find a festive Christmas Market from November 25-27th. Featuring more than 30 vendors, live music, ice skating, plus seasonal shops and boutiques, it’s the perfect way to explore the area and grab your holiday gifts, too. Best of all, admission is free!

Don’t leave Tryon without taking a drive through the Equestrian Center’s magical Winterfest. Book your tickets for this nightly light show and enjoy hundreds of thousands of bright lights animated to music. It’s a local experience you won’t want to miss! Happening now through January 1st.

 

4. Enjoy Winter Wonderlands in Lake Lure & The Blue Ridge Foothills

Forest City (just about 20 minutes from Mill Spring) boasts more than 1 million lights in its downtown, giving it the honor of being named one of the “Best Christmas Towns outside of Asheville.” From lighting up Lake Lure’s iconic flowering bridge to holiday concerts and Chimney Rock’s Santa’s annual “Santa on the Chimney Event” — there’s tons of festive fun for everyone in the area. Feeling adventurous? Go all in with Lake Lure’s New Year’s Day Polar Plunge! Explore the holiday magic these festive small towns have to offer in this winter events calendar.

 

5. Go Hometown for the Holidays in Saluda and Tryon

Enjoy music, shopping, goodies, and more when you visit Saluda’s free Hometown Christmas event, just about a 15-minute drive from Bright’s Creek. Located in charming McCreery Park, this family-friendly event features laser lights, a campfire for roasting s’mores, a toy donation box, and a Christmas carol sing-along. Plus, elf stations and a visit from Santa himself! Learn more about Saluda Hometown Christmas here.

Another quick 15 minutes down the road sits Tryon, where you’ll find a Christmas parade, Horse Wreath Hanging Party, a Christmas stroll, and more. Discover more festive fun in Downtown Tryon here.

Ready to make Bright’s Creek home for the holidays? Come visit during the most magical time of year and experience all that our community and Western North Carolina has to offer.

Book a tour today.

5 Can’t-Miss Sights & Experiences Around Mill Spring

5 Can’t-Miss Sights & Experiences Around Mill Spring

Bright’s Creek, just outside of Mill Spring NC, offers a peaceful mountain oasis experience while being within reach of amazing local spots, charming towns, and convenient resources. Just minutes from our gates, you’ll discover everything you need — markets, shops, entertainment, and so much more. Whether you’re searching for farm-fresh seasonal produce, supplies for your next project, or an eatery with lots of local flair, you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s our local’s guide to the Mill Spring area, just outside of beautiful Bright’s Creek.

1. Shop for Local Meat, Fresh Produce, and Artisan Cheese

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: Less than 15 minutes

Open all year round, the local gem known as Mill Spring Farm Store features a great selection of dairy, produce, meat, breads, baked goods, cheese, jams and honey, snacks, and even frozen prepared foods. Conveniently located near local wineries and Lake Lure, it’s the perfect place to stock up on groceries. With almost a 5-star rating online, it’s truly a local favorite that can’t be missed.

2. Explore the Area’s Best Wineries and Breweries

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 7-40 minutes

Just about 7 minutes up the road sits Parker-Binns Vineyard, a stunning 40-acre winery located in the Tryon Foothills. This family-owned winery features amazing reds, whites, rosés, and more unique blends you won’t want to miss. With fun events, live music, food trucks, and more so close to Bright’s Creek, Parker-Binns is practically your own personal wine retreat.

About 11 minutes from Mill Spring, you’ll find another amazing winery — Overmountain Vineyards located in Tryon. Discover French-style wines made primarily from estate-grown fruit on their 70-acre family-run farm. Come enjoy a picnic lunch and discover their 5 varieties of local grapes planted right onsite. With stunning scenery and amazing wines, it’s the perfect adults-only adventure just minutes away from Bright’s Creek.

The area is also brimming with breweries! Just about a 20-minute drive from Bright’s Creek is Iron Key Brewing Co. in Columbus. Formerly a state prison from the 1930s, this unique space houses tons of history, in addition to amazing craft beers, wine, and food.

Some of the nation’s most beloved breweries are also in the area! Renowned Sierra Nevada has a taproom about 40 minutes from Bright’s Creek, with a back porch that offers food and 20 beers on tap. Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, and so much more at this famed Mills River destination.

Finally, Highland Brewing, an Asheville favorite since 1994, sits just about an hour’s drive from Bright’s Creek. Take a taproom tour and enjoy an array of food and beer options in their unique and lively space.

3. Experience History & Community at the Mill Spring Ag Center

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: Less than 15 minutes

Built in 1921, this 41,000 sq. ft. former schoolhouse is now a multi–purpose space offering an array of unique amenities. Whether you’re looking to rent an auditorium space for an event, need a new office space equipped with WiFi, are in the market for an art studio space, want to connect with the community, or just want to explore a local landmark, the Mill Spring Ag Center is definitely worth a visit. It’s the perfect escape for artists, farmers, and entrepreneurs alike.

4. Bring Your Projects to Life with Help from the Local Hardware Store

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: Less than 20 minutes

Red Mountain Trading Post is a local gem stocked with everything you’ll need for both large DIY undertakings and small projects. This favorite “mom-and-pop” hardware store has a helpful community feel you just won’t find at big-box chains. Beyond tools and supplies, you’ll even find seasonal plants, local treats, decor, and more.

5. Enjoy Family-Friendly Equestrian Entertainment

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 20 minutes

Horse enthusiasts who appreciate our intimate on-site equestrian center can further indulge their love of all things equestrian at the popular Tryon International Equestrian Center & Resort.

Located in the Blue Ridge Foothills of Mill Spring, this social hub features horse shows, live music, family-friendly events, competitions, shopping, and more. With on-site dining options from sushi and BBQ to Italian and Mexican food, there’s truly something for everyone to love.

If you thought mountain living was too remote or too far from life’s necessities, that’s certainly not the case at beautiful Bright’s Creek.

Ready to explore both our on-site amenities (our NEW amenity center will feature a grab-and-go market) and all of the local gems just outside of our gates? To learn more about available real estate and club memberships at Bright’s Creek, contact us today.

Our Favorite 5 Vineyards and Wineries Near Mill Spring, NC

Our Favorite 5 Vineyards and Wineries Near Mill Spring, NC

There’s nothing like pairing a decadent glass of local wine with the majestic mountain views of Western North Carolina. And with so many quality vineyards and wineries near Mill Spring, NC, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the rich varietals of the region, from buttery chardonnays and crisp rosés to robust cabernets and peppery merlots—and more! Here’s our list of some of our favorite local wineries, just outside the Bright’s Creek gates.

1. Parker-Binns Vineyard

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 7 minutes

Located in the Tryon Foothills, this family-owned winery and vineyard boasts a wide selection of award-winning wines. If you’re feeling peckish, pair a glass with some delicious items from the Vineyard’s on-site restaurant, the Burger Barn. And it offers live music throughout the weekends, providing the perfect ambiance for a romantic date night or relaxing evening with friends.

2. Mountain Brook Vineyard

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 14 minutes

Featuring 75 acres of sprawling vines and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, Mountain Brook Vineyard offers the space and options to make each visit your own unique experience. The winery hosts regular events with live music and food trucks, and it just kicked off its first-ever JazzFest 2022 with musical performances by local, national, and international artists. AND it’s pet friendly, so you can bring your best fur friend with you (just remember to keep them leashed).

3. Russian Chapel Hills Winery

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 14 minutes

Formerly known as Green Creek Vineyards, the Russian Chapel Hills Winery has been upholding its place in local viticulture since 2004. Recently, the Vineyard constructed the beautiful St. Anna Chapel on its property, which is part of the eastern Diocese of the Russian Church Outside of Russia and a staple feature of the vineyard. Open Thursday through Sunday, it’s the perfect weekend spot to enjoy a glass of local wine!

4. Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room & Bistro

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 23 minutes

Located right outside the village of Chimney Rock, Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room & Bistro is a must-add spot on your next visit to the area. Enjoy some of the best views of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls from the covered patio, which also features live music most weekends. And if you’re craving more variety, you can also choose from a selection of domestic and craft beers in addition to the Burntshirt Vinyards’ local wine offerings. Or take a tour of the vineyards at the Burntshirt Vinyards Hendersonville location, which also includes a winery, tastings, private event space, and more!

5. Overmountain Vineyards

Drive time from Mill Spring, NC: 11 minutes

Providing an “adult-only experience” and available only by reservation, this 70-acre, family-owned farm is the perfect spot for an intimate, romantic evening – or you can make it a weekend getaway by staying in one of the Vineyard’s luxury villas. Specializing in handcrafted French-style wines and surrounded by the beauty of the Tryon Foothills, it’s the ideal year-round spot to share with your friends and loved ones.

As you can see, there’s a wide selection of vineyards and wineries near Mill Spring, North Carolina – some just minutes away from Bright’s Creek and others perfect for a day trip to one of our beautiful surrounding cities. Which one will you visit first?

A Look at the New Bright’s Creek Amenity Center

New Amenity Center Underway at Bright’s Creek in Mill Spring, NC:
Exciting Destination Scheduled to Open Late 2022

When looking for the perfect home in the Western North Carolina mountains, finding a community with amenities that appeal to the whole family is an important part of the search. Bright’s Creek’s stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are enhanced by the many amenities we have to offer, including our new Amenity Center scheduled to open later this year.

And we’re making great strides in bringing new experiences for our members with luxury amenities for the entire family to enjoy. From making improvements to our one-of-a-kind Tom Fazio-designed golf course to adding an expansive outdoor deck to the Member Lodge with incredible panoramic views, exciting changes are happening, making Bright’s Creek a family-friendly community in Mill Spring, NC where you can relax, play, explore, and – simply put – live your best life.

One of the most exciting additions has been in the works for several months: the new Amenity Center. Slated to open in late 2022, the Amenity Center will be a beautiful facility in the heart of Bright’s Creek where members and their family and friends can gather for a fun or relaxing time.

The approximately 7,000 sq. ft. two-story facility will feature a chic rustic look to blend with the natural surroundings. It will overlook the 10th fairway with a backdrop of the entire valley. Inside the main building, guests will be welcomed with beautiful high ceilings, a stone fireplace, and ample windows to take in the scenery and let in the sunshine. There will be an inside bar serving up cocktails and snacks and a social gathering area with plush furniture to relax and enjoy time with friends and neighbors. There will also be a screened-in porch to take in the outdoors practically year-round.

For the kids and the kids at heart, the Amenity Center will have an indoor two-lane bowling alley – sure to provide hours of fun competition. It will also have a fitness center with high-end features and equipment, such as free weights, yoga mats, cardio machines, and more to provide a space to maintain your health and wellness.

And when you’re ready for some outdoor relaxation, the best place will be the resort-style saltwater heated swimming pool with tanning ledges for soaking up the sun and a large deck outfitted with lounge chairs and shaded tables. Families will enjoy a refreshing time by the pool on those hot summer days. When you’ve worked up an appetite from dipping in the pool or tanning in the sun, pop by the outside bar and poolside grille and order up some fresh menu offerings, like pizza, sandwiches, snacks, and frozen treats.

Bright's Creek Amenities Center includes a swimming pool, fitness center, and two-lane bowling alley

With so many frills, this enjoyable destination will be like paradise just minutes from your home in Bright’s Creek. We can’t wait for the new Amenity Center to open and for members to gather in this spectacular space. This new facility is just one more reason why Bright’s Creek is the best choice for your Western North Carolina resort community. For golf and equestrian enthusiasts as well as those that simply love the outdoors – whether to explore or relax, Bright’s Creek has it all.

To learn more about memberships or available properties at Bright’s Creek with spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, contact us today.