(SYLVA, N.C.) – Balsam Mountain Preserve, a premier resort-style private residential community nestled high in the Blue Ridge Mountains between the charming mountain towns of Sylva and Waynesville, announces the appointment of Allison Macke as the club’s new merchandiser, bringing a fresh, member-centric perspective to the pro shop experience.

A longtime Sylva resident, Macke established a strong local connection to the role. She recently completed her degree in Professional Golf Management at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). The FGCU PGM program is a PGA-accredited pathway, one of just 16 nationwide, providing students with essential skills and knowledge for successful careers in golf leadership. Macke honed her abilities through merchandising and golf operations capacities at several private clubs in Florida including Quail Creek Country Club and West Bay Club, as well as Mountaintop Golf Club in North Carolina.

“I am truly excited to join the community at Balsam Mountain Preserve,” states Macke. “Having completed my degree, I gained invaluable professional experience at esteemed private clubs along my academic journey. I am dedicated to elevating the retail experience and look forward to designing a pro shop that reflects the distinctive character and understated elegance of Balsam Mountain Preserve.”

With a robust background in visual merchandising, high-end apparel selection and strategic inventory planning, Macke’s passion lies in fostering elevated retail and creating memorable, personalized interactions for members. She is a proud member of the Association of Golf Merchandisers and a 2025 Platinum Award recipient.

“We are genuinely pleased to welcome Allison to the team,” says Travis Wilson, Head Golf Professional at Balsam Mountain Preserve and fellow graduate of the FGCU PGM program. “Her training through the FGCU PGM program established a strong foundation, and her prior experience will be a significant asset. It is wonderful to see another talented individual from the FGCU PGM program join us, continuing what is proving to be a valuable connection for Balsam.”

Under Macke’s direction, Balsam anticipates introducing new events, thoughtful product assortments and enhanced service within the retail space.

For more information about Balsam Mountain Preserve, visit www.balsammountainpreserve.com.

ABOUT BALSAM MOUNTAIN PRESERVE

Nestled between the charming mountain towns of Sylva and Waynesville, Balsam Mountain Preserve is one of America’s most unique and sought-after mountain communities. The 4,400-acre enclave located high in the Blue Ridge Mountains opened in 2004, anchored by a thrilling Arnold Palmer Signature Course that has been heralded as America’s best mountain course.

Balsam Mountain Preserve offers luxury living in an authentic mountain environment. Its diverse mix of real estate includes luxury estates, homesteads and village homes, as well as rustic-elegant cabin and cottage fractionals. Of the 4,400 acres, 3,200 acres are safeguarded in a permanent land trust to protect the natural mountain habitat and provide an expansive natural playground for residents and their families. Plans call for 354 homes to be created within the community, which rises to 5,400 feet and offers stunning mountain views. All residences adhere to the International Dark Sky Association guidelines for outdoor lighting, which fosters privacy and stargazing.

More than 40 miles of private hiking and equestrian trails provide symmetry between work, play, indulgence, health and wellness. The property’s elevation averages 3,500 feet above sea level, which promotes outdoor recreation in a cooler environment. In addition to the golf course, Balsam Mountain Preserve offers extensive equestrian facilities. Other community highlights include a noteworthy culinary program featuring the Summit House restaurant, Mine Tavern and Boarding House Marketplace, private campsites, a Nature Center, more than 40 miles of heritage trout streams that offer some of the best fly fishing in North America, historical gathering sites, fitness, spa, tennis and pool facilities, and much more.

 

 

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