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Fayetteville, W.Va. (September 9, 2026) – Alyssa Hosler, owner and founder of The Wooly Gorge in Oak Hill, will be showcasing her selection of handmade knit and crochet accessories along with other fiber products at the WV Hive booth at the 46th annual Bridge Day on October 17.
“Bridge Day is such an important celebration of our region, and I’m excited for the opportunity to introduce The Wooly Gorge to visitors from both near and far,” said Hosler. “As a small, locally inspired business, it means a lot to be part of an event that showcases what makes West Virginia special. I’m looking forward to making new connections, sharing my handmade work, and continuing to grow awareness of my business.”
Hosler will be joined at the booth by her mother and stepfather, Angie and Doug Gloss. The Wooly Gorge was started in July 2025 and, according to Hosler, her young business has discovered its market.
“I believe The Wooly Gorge is thriving because customers value items that are unique, thoughtfully made, and connected to the local community,” said Hosler.
Hosler said the West Virginia Hive, the entrepreneurship program of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, has been helpful to her success.
“The WV Hive has helped me strengthen my ideas and approach my business with greater confidence,” Holser shared. “Their guidance, resources, and encouragement have helped me think more strategically about building my brand, reaching customers, and planning for long-term growth. It has also been valuable to connect with people who understand the opportunities and challenges that come with growing a small business in southern West Virginia.”
Hosler described the Wooly Gorge as a West Virginia small business “inspired by fiber arts, the mountains, and the natural beauty of the New River Gorge region. My goal is to create a warm and welcoming brand that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and community. I currently offer handmade crochet and knit products and am working toward expanding The Wooly Gorge into a destination for yarn, fiber supplies, handmade goods, and connections among local makers. We also offer classes to learn new skills, which we post about on our website and Facebook group page. We are also expanding our groups and encourage monthly meetups.” Customers can learn more at www.thewoolygorge.com and follow The Wooly Gorge on Facebook or Instagram at @the.woolygorge.
The West Virginia Hive will also showcase five other clients at its booth – Mariposa Hollow in Glen Morgan; Hinton Outfitters in Hinton; Kraken Glass N Crafts in Talcott; Sunbeams & Moonshine Creations, also in Talcott; and Wild & Untamed Things in Alderson.
Devon Fitzgerald, Regional Business Advisor with the West Virginia Hive, invites Bridge Day visitors to stop by the WV Hive booth to meet the entrepreneurs and learn more about their unique products and services. Booths are open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the Bridge Day 2026 at the New River Gorge in Fayette County.
The WV Hive Network serves Raleigh, Fayette, Summers and Nicholas counties.
