Every handcrafted item has a story, and every maker brings their own passion, creativity, and experience to what they create. That is why highlighting makers across our region with our ‘Meet the Makers’ blog is so special. The PA Made Shop brings those stories to life through an in-person event.

At the PA Made Shop in Weedville, we are fortunate to work with more than 40 Pennsylvania artists, makers, authors, and small businesses. While their products are available in the shop year-round, our annual Meet the Maker Markets give visitors the chance to get to know the people behind the products and experience the creativity of our region firsthand.

Held once a month throughout the summer and fall, these outdoor markets have become a favorite tradition for both our makers and our customers.

Bringing Makers and Customers Together

The Meet the Maker Markets were created with a simple goal in mind: to connect PA Made customers with the special and talented makers behind the products.

Throughout the season, participating vendors set up pop-up displays in the PA Made Shop parking lot, offering an expanded selection of their products while sharing the stories behind their businesses. Visitors have the opportunity to ask questions, learn about different creative processes, and gain a greater appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each handmade item.

Familiar Faces & New Friends

One of our favorite regular market vendors is Bennetts Valley Honey Company, owned by Lisa of Elk County.

Many readers may recognize Lisa from her recent Maker of the Month feature. As a beekeeper and producer of local honey, Lisa’s table is always a popular stop, featuring her locally harvested honey, jams, jellies, baked goods, and other homemade specialties. Her market booth often serves as a place where visitors can learn more about beekeeping and the work that goes into producing high-quality honey and homemade goods.

While returning vendors are always exciting, we are also excited to introduce customers to new makers.

This summer, the new business Drift Stone Cements of St. Marys plans to join several of our market events. Owner Abigail creates handcrafted planters, bowls, vases, and decorative pieces from cement, transforming an unexpected material into beautiful and functional works of art.

A Special Author Visit

Our July 18 Meet the Maker Market will feature a special guest for readers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Local author Jacob Pistner will be joining us to sign copies of his book, The North American Turkey (and Why I Don’t Have One). Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Jacob, learn more about his writing journey, and pick up a signed copy of his book.

Events like these allow us to showcase the many different types of creators represented at PA Made, from artists and food producers to authors and craftspeople.

More Than a Market

While shopping is certainly part of the experience, the Meet the Maker Markets are about much more than purchasing products.

They are an opportunity to gather as a community, support small businesses, celebrate local talent, and build relationships between makers and customers. On select dates, visitors may also find farmers market-style vendors offering fresh produce and locally produced foods, adding even more variety to the day.

Each event offers something a little different, making every visit a unique experience.

Plan Your Visit

The 2026 Meet the Maker Market schedule includes:

• June 20

• July 18

• August 15

• September 26

• October 17

All markets take place at PA Made Shop, located at 18452 Bennetts Valley Highway, Weedville, PA 15868, during store hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, hoping to meet local makers, or simply searching for a fun way to spend a Saturday in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region, we invite you to stop by.

And if you enjoy learning about the talented artists, makers, authors, and small businesses that call our region home, be sure to follow along with our Meet the Makers blog series as we continue to share their stories throughout the year.