Forest Millwork Scales Business Following Storm Recovery 

One year after Hurricane Helene, the company invests in growth and prepares for a refreshed brand presence. 

One year ago, Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina. Lives were lost, businesses destroyed, and communities shaken to their core. In the middle of it all was Forest Millwork, a family-run business that has been part of the grain of Biltmore Village for decades. 

Floodwaters tore through their facility, threatening not just their business, but the livelihoods of the many local families they employ. For the Tenan family, who had spent decades building the business, walking into their flooded facility was heartbreaking. Their showroom lay in ruins, machines destroyed, materials washed away, and the future suddenly uncertain. “My family and I had just sat down two days prior to discuss the future of Forest Millwork. It was all gone in a matter of hours,” recalls Stacey Sessions, daughter of founder Alan Tenan. 

But Forest Millwork’s story is not one of defeat, it is one of resilience. Almost immediately after the storm, the team led by Alan and his family, began the difficult process of salvaging what they could and rebuilding what was lost. 

Employees came together, showing up not just for the company, but for one another. Customers and neighbors offered support in countless ways. Among those who came to help were neighbors and friends, and in a testament to the company’s commitment to community, they hired four of those willing helpers as permanent employees. 

Early in the process, Forest Millwork teamed up with Barringer Construction, a local commercial general contractor, to guide them through the most uncertain stages of recovery. Barringer’s hands-on approach and experience in complex projects allowed them to hit the ground running, providing immediate support to Forest Millwork’s recovery efforts. “At a time when so much felt unknown, our team focused on action, getting work started and moving forward,” said Daniel Smith, who leads Barringer Construction’s Asheville office. “It’s been an honor to stand alongside Forest Millwork through phase one of their rebuild, and we’re proud to now move into phase two as they scale and strengthen their operations. This partnership reflects what we do best, helping businesses not just rebuild, but build back stronger.” 

“Those first days were overwhelming,” said Stacey. “But what stands out most is how everyone came together, our family and the team. We rallied in the most unbelievable way. Day in and day out we had boots on the ground, cleaning and mucking, while others were setting up satellite offices to continue serving our customers. Forest Millwork never went anywhere.” 

Mackenzie Tenan, Alan’s youngest daughter, reflects on the additional challenges they faced. “Even after the flood cleanup was done, becoming operational again was incredibly challenging. Nothing about the process has been smooth. But our employees’ determination kept us going. Starting over gave us the chance to become stronger and more efficient, without ever losing sight of our core values of craftsmanship and producing quality woodwork.” 

One year on, Forest Millwork has not only rebuilt but expanded, opening an additional facility in Weaverville and growing the business in the face of immense economic challenges. Their journey over the past year reflects the strength of a family business deeply committed to its people and its place. 

As Stacey shares, the lessons learned are not just about survival, but about perseverance and the importance of community. Founder Alan Tenan adds, “We and Western North Carolina are fortunate to have such skilled and attentive craftsmen and designers.” Their dedication over the past year has not only carried Forest Millwork through recovery but set the stage for what comes next. 

Today, Forest Millwork looks to the future with renewed energy, a reimagined brand, a stronger team, and a vision to keep building for generations to come. What began as a story of recovery has transformed into one of resilience, growth, and a legacy of strength and commitment to the people of Western North Carolina. 

About Forest Millwork For nearly four decades, Forest Millwork has been a trusted name in the Asheville community for designing and building custom cabinetry and architectural woodwork that brings timeless beauty to modern spaces. A family-owned business rooted in craftsmanship, Forest Millwork blends heritage woodworking techniques with modern design to deliver custom cabinetry and architectural woodwork for clients who value timeless craftsmanship and enduring quality. 

With 30 employees across two locations, the Cabinet Design Studio in Asheville and the Millwork facility in Weaverville, the company approaches every project with integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to outlasting trends. Guided by core values that put people first, build with intention, and go above expectations, Forest Millwork delivers bespoke work that transforms spaces and fosters connection. 

Learn more at www.forestmillwork.com or follow along on Instagram @forestmillworkinc. For media inquiries contact: Stacey Sessions at Stacey@forestmillwork.com.