Mad Strings : Featured Artisan for March 2024!

The name Mad Strings instantly brings a bright smile across my face.

Visualizing a tangled, colorful web of strings, Mandi of Mad Strings Mandi is an inventive creator who controls the string art designs masterfully. Through her branding you can already get a vision of what she might create before you even see her works. Brilliant! 

Mandi’s string art creations vary in style but you can see her soul pour out through her witty, sassy, and pop culture reference pieces. Her works of geometric nail designs with a tangle of colorful string filling in each shape is the epitome of controlled chaos and it is completely mesmerizing. 

At Trellis Marketplace, our goal is to connect you to local makers and artists that bring us goods that make our home feel beautiful, unique, and safe. As humans we have this innate desire to express ourselves through any means available. Our habitats are no different than a reflection of ourselves. That is why we just adore Mandi and all of her Mad String creations. She gives us all an opportunity to express our inner and most true self through the entanglement of her intricate string art designs. 

Mandi isn’t just a brilliant artist dabbling in everything from resin magnets and jewelry, to rugs and wall decor.  She is actively involved in working with her local dog sanctuary, giving much of her time to finding happy forever homes for dogs that are in need. I love chatting with Mandi about her adventures in doing so. She’s got one of the biggest hearts and it makes it such a treat to highlight her this March! 

Not only do we benefit from working with Mandi on a business level, but the more that we have all come to truly know her and sell her art makes what we do at Trellis so entirely satisfying. When you shop with us, you’re supporting amazing makers that makes our heart soar. 

Support Mandi through social media on Instagram: madstringsmandi, Facebook- mad strings and TikTok: madstringsmandi

Find her in person at Trellis Marketplace in Elizabethtown, PA and Virtue local art market in Hallam. We hope to see you in soon!

Knotting Tides : Featured Artisan for February 2024

We are gravitating towards local makers that bring a true sense of comfort and sophistication to Trellis Marketplace.

Knotting Tides, our macrame artist, Tiffany, is our highlighted vendor for the month of February. Her cozy, hygge inspired designs, brings a warmth into any space. She uses “hygge” - a Danish term to describe her style, which Merriam Webster outlines as “a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable”. Tiffany’s presence evokes just that- a cozy, comfortable, creator where top tier design and craftsmanship are tied in and all throughout, with intricate detail.

We asked Tiffany to tell us more about herself and her work as a macrame artist.

How long have you been doing your craft? I started macrame before I even knew what it was as a little girl making friendship bracelets. I picked it back up as a hobby in 2018 right about the time macrame started to have another resurgence--just before the pandemic boom. With a few simple materials and some dexterity, anyone can easily learn. Once I felt comfortable with the craft and developed my style, I began sharing my love for macrame by selling products, hosting workshops, and sharing diy tutorials.

What does an average day look like for you in terms of business production? I work remotely full time as a digital marketer for online retailers which means I spend the majority of my day on a computer. Macrame helps me disconnect and unwind so it's very important for me to not put too much pressure on myself and protect the joy I find in the craft. This year I've been trying to be better about planning ahead for the seasons and trying new things. I am experimenting with a number of items that appeal to a variety of age groups and price points while I continue to develop my style and brand. I am also excited to get back out to artisan markets and connect with customers in person.

Who are some of your mentors or inspirations? There is a gold mine of macrame makers on Instagram to draw inspiration from. If I see a cool project or new knot that I want to try, I like to always add my own personal style and source quality materials. This year I'm really into headbands. They add a chic New England or nautical twist to any look and gives a nod to my summers up north. Mystic, Connecticut is one of my favorite small towns and I will definitely be wearing them during my next visit!

How can people find your work and support you? Please, please, please find and follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and/or Tiktok. Instagram and Facebook are where you can find the latest updates on new products and upcoming shows!

We love Knotting Tides' presence in our Trellis Marketplace artisan collaborative. Pulling sources of inspiration from traveling and sentimental feelings, Tiffany's macrame designed earrings, plant hangers, keychains, coasters, mirrors, and hair accessories bring an elevated cozy- the ultimate cozy vibe to any person's life. Who wouldn’t want that?!

Buetiful Boutique : Featured Artisan for February 2024

Stand out with the way you carry yourself, and your drink of choice! Buetiful Boutique is a glassware and accessories brand that’s focused on cheeky and elegant statements beautifully designed on glassware.

Lauren Buettner is the mastermind behind Buetiful Boutique. Bringing us a variety of claw clips, scrunchies, t-shirts, bags, and of course, cheeky glassware. Her style is refined, clean, and trendy in all aspects. We love her simple gold and silver huggie earrings- on of our best selling products from this boutique. Also, what is really nice about her cup sets, is that you can create your own set with a lid and glass straw, to define your own personal style.

Let’s get to know this maker a little better!

How long have you been doing your craft? I opened the boutique back in July 2021. I began with polymer clay earrings and greeting cards. A few months later, I brought in drinkware to add a variety of items. I then started to bring in accessories and finally, clothing. I love having many options that different individuals can choose from!

What are your best selling products? The decorative drinkware has been the best selling item of Buetiful Boutique. In regard to accessories, our earring huggies and claw clips!

Why did you start your craft? & how did you get your start? I started my craft because I wanted something to call mine. I always loved the idea of having a clothing or accessory boutique but I was so intrigued with arts & crafts at the time - I decided I wanted to tie it all together. I started selling locally and on my Instagram page. Applying and attending markets helped me learn more about the business end of things. I was then accepted into Trellis Marketplace and the rest is history!

How can people find your work and support you? I am mainly Instagram based when it comes to promoting my boutique. On my Instagram (@buetifulboutique), you can find different shops I am in, along with my website and any events coming up.

Please follow and support our makers we are blessed to get to know better and do business with. They are what makes Trellis Marketplace truly magical.

January Spotlight Vendors: Ivy Lane Clay Co. & Treat Yourself Soap & Candle Co.

January is a time of newness and rebirth amongst many other changes at the beginning of the year. The first month of the year is naturally low lit and low energy. When figuring out what vendors should represent this tedious month, we thought of some of the sweetest, brightest, and most bubbly vendors we work with!

Ivy Lane Clay Co. is an amazingly talented clay jewelry artist from Hummelstown, PA. Creator and owner, Bre is a mother of 3 beautiful kiddos. We asked this local artist a few more questions about herself and how she got her start.

Why did you start your craft? & how did you get your start?

I first started creating polymer clay jewelry because I was a stay-at-home mom, desperate for a hobby/something to do outside of being a parent. I stumbled upon the craft one random day from watching TikTok videos. I loved seeing all the behind the scenes/process videos of other clay maker's designs and thought it looked fun, So I bought some supplies and started creating. I didn't go into it expecting to be running a small business, but I'm so grateful for the support and how things have turned out! 

Who are some of your mentors or inspirations?

The biggest inspirations for my designs are definitely my fellow clay artists/cutter makers. There's definitely an endless list of people but Ro Clay Co. and Lulu Cutters are two specific businesses that immediately come to mind when I think "inspiration".  All of my designs first begin with a cutter shape, and they both create such beautiful, unique cutters (as well as other clay tools) that are perfect for my brand. They also both frequently share tips/tricks that have been a huge help with growing my own skills with this craft.

What does an average day look like for you in terms of business production?
I find my seasonal earring designs such as my Halloween and Christmas collections are definitely my biggest sellers! Aside from earrings I more recently released barrette hair clips and clay bookmarks, both of which have been a huge hit at pop-up markets! 

How can people find your work and support you?Along with my space at Trellis Marketplace, I also attend a lot of pop-up markets/vendor events year-round. I have a page on my website (www.ivylaneclayco.com/pages/events) with a list of my scheduled events! Aside from shopping though, the best way to support me is liking/following my social media pages like Instagram, or Facebook and sharing posts with your friends! Word of mouth goes a long way!


In the dimly lit months at the beginning of the year we gravitate towards sources of light and life. Nothing comes to mind better than Treat Yourself Soap & Candle Co. Laura, owner and creator of this business has quickly become a Trellis Marketplace staple. Exquisite soaps and candle scents made with love and care are near our front entrance. Enjoy learning a little bit more about Laura and her process with her growing business!

Why did you start your craft? & how did you get your start?

Since I was little I've had the ability to connect scents/smells with memories, people and places. I've also been fascinated with wax even lighting taper candles with our gas stove at WAY too young an age. I wanted to combine the love of wax and a talent for scents together to create a signature soap and candle line.

How long have you been doing your craft?

Almost 6 years ago I began watching others on Youtube make artisan soaps and wax creations during my pregnancy. I even ordered from those beloved channels sampling their soaps. After becoming a mom and trying to avoid burnout (as a teacher) I found myself enjoying the tiny self-care moments while choosing a fancy bar of soap and delighting in the scent while hand washing. It was something just for me, not given to anyone else. My soap making journey began wanting to create soaps so that others could indulge in self-care as well. 

Who are some of your mentors or inspirations?

Katie Carson with Royalty Soaps and Jerrica Zimmerman with Quench Bear Soap were and continue to be my Youtube inspirations. My business sense for innovation and pursuing my passions is inspired by my Uncle and his photography business, Amazing Memories.

What are your best selling products?

At Trellis Marketplace my best sellers are: Vanilla Latte, Christmas Cheer, Morning Donuts and anything Lavender in both soap and candle forms. At my in-person events, my bestsellers are my solid lotions. 

What does an average day look like for you in terms of business production?

I juggle daily production with teaching (virtually) full time, and mom life.  It's all about time management. I prep or finish production in the morning before work and kids going off to school. I eek in a thing or 2 during my lunch break and after school and dinner I do a tad more. I run on "to-do" lists, and coffee

How can people find your work and support you?

Trellis Marketplace of course! Online at  www.treatyourselfscc.com and IG/FB @treatyourselfsoapcandleco

October Spotlight Vendor: Earth & Embers

October is a deeply inspiring time for all nature lovers everywhere. The changing of the seasons sparks creativity in so many, including our spotlight vendor for this month.

Megan, creator and founder of Earth & Embers is a new business that opened shop back in September 2022. Megan, Meg for short, is a jack of all trades when it comes to her business. She dabbles in a little bit of everything from herbal remedies and sourcing vintage home decor, to painting on ethically sourced animal bones and skulls, and creating beautiful dioramas in glass terrariums. 

Whimsical and magical bone decor is created by the talented Megan Fry with Earth & Embers. At Trellis Marketplace we love promoting products that are truly unique and we encourage our customers to express their design style through locally crafted and curated goods. Find statement pieces that stand out amongst the rest!

Meg’s designs and presentation of her wares strike a sense of magic and wonder in our customers. I had to know more about what her favorite art mediums are and where she draws her inspiration from. 

Earth & Embers carries a variety of products in their shop space at Trellis Marketplace. Another popular product are Earth & Embers crystals and crystal points. They shine so nicely in the autumn sun. Take one home with you and feel the healing energy they radiate in your home or office space.

Meg will doodle, draw, paint, and sketch with charcoal on various items. Six years ago she started producing her works on animal skulls and bones and has grown that skill where it is today. Being highly inspired by nature, Meg began studying herbalism and natural remedies about 8 years ago after the birth of her first daughter. The process of growing, raising & preserving her family’s food quickly led into growing and creating natural herbal remedies to maintain their health & wellbeing. Meg leads a lifestyle of sustainability through her interests and products she brings to her friends, family and our customers. Many of Meg’s creations are thoughtfully sourced and found thrifted items that she beautifully restores or gives a second life to. In everything Meg does, she adds an element of herself and seeks to elevate her environment around her. 

It is a joy to get to know our makers more through this process. Meg is a wonderful friend, mother, and talented artisan and business owner who’s love for nature and sustainability ring throughout her products. Shop for Earth & Embers on our main level at our store today! Also, join us on October 18th to highlight Earth & Embers here in house! We will be hosting a live demonstration and giving away free samples this evening. Try something new and meet this incredible local maker on October 18th.

September Spotlight Vendor : Urban Burn & Wick

Addy Ober is the creator of Urban Burn & Wick and first year student at Kutztown University. I had the pleasure to ask this freshly graduated high school student a few questions about her business operation, how she got her start, and who her mentors are. Having a business at a young age teaches you so much about the world first hand, how to be responsible, how to cope with issues. I was impressed with Addy’s chic and polished display at our store, curious to know more I gave her a call!

Introducing the Magic of Candlelight: Elevate Your Space with Our Exquisite Candles
Are you looking to create an ambiance that exudes warmth, serenity, and enchantment? Look no further! Our exquisite collection of candles by Urban Burn and Wick are here for you, ready to ignite the magic within your space. With unparalleled craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and captivating fragrances, our candles are the perfect addition to any home or occasion.

I asked her what is the name of your business and how did you come up with it? She said “Urban Burn & Wick was created one night when my dad and I sat down at dinner. I was going through a rough spot during my sophomore year of highschool and he wanted to help me find an outlet.”  They both started doing extensive research on candles and what Addy would need in order to bring her craft to fruition. Addy and her dad got a workspace set up for her and they went to work. 

Clean Burning Soy Wax: A Sustainable Choice for Healthier Living
Unlike traditional paraffin wax, soy wax is derived from a renewable resource, making it a more environmentally conscious choice. By choosing soy-based candles, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also support sustainable farming practices.

Alongside candle making, Addy dabbles in jewelry making. I was curious to know what her best selling products are. “ Definitely the jar candles and wire rings. I started with candle making and did that for a year and then expanded to scent related room sprays, and then jewelry.” What inspired making jewelry? “I picked up jewelry making with my mom while on vacation and then continued that craft with a class I had in high school taught by a very inspiring and encouraging jewelry teacher.” Hearing about how her mom and dad were super supportive with her creative endeavors, I was curious to know about who else has encouraged her along her journey. “My jewelry teacher was a big mentor, along with my parents and their background in business. My dad started a sign business back in college and now that is his main profession. Sign making definitely comes in handy whenever I need labels, backdrops, and other informational signage.

So what does an average day look like for this college freshman when it comes to production? “ I go into my workshop to see how much I can prep at that given time. It takes a batch 1-2 hrs to cool from the first process, and then the candles need to rest for about 5 days. A whole batch from start to finish takes about a week. Within the cooling process, I work on my other items, room sprays, jewelry, and glassware.”

What are your candles made out of? “For my candles I use soy wax and fragrance oils from Fillmore Container in Lancaster. And for my room sprays and car diffusers I use all essential oils”

You can find Urban Burn & Wick at a handful of places around the Lancaster area. Find her on instagram @Urbanburn_wick or at her website, https://sites.google.com/view/urbanburnwick/home?authuser=1

Or visit one of her in person locations!

Black Cat Yoga Studio Lititz 

Wishing Well Candles and Gifts Lititz

Leola Village Spa

Martin Furniture Ephrata 

Trellis Marketplace, Elizabethtown, PA. 

Having a creative process, a unique outlet to pour into during trying times can bring forth a beautiful self discovery within a person and the community around them. One of my favorite things about being intertwined with an artistic business community is seeing someone expand and perfect their craft, and grow in entrepreneurship. I am excited to see where this sweet and vivacious gal’s path takes her! I definitely encourage you to follow Addy and Urban Burn & Wick and keep an eye on her progress. 

Addy Ober will be our in-house Spotlight Artisan for September! She will be hosting a meet and greet table where you can connect with her directly at Trellis Marketplace. Free refreshments will be available for those who come out to connect with our makers. Join us SEPTEMBER 23rd from 4-6pm to meet this maker and enjoy some light refreshments!

‘ Till next time 

  • Charley Sage Montgomery

How to conquer a transitional time for home. Survive the upcoming seasons!

Back to school can be super stressful coming from the ease of a structureless summertime.

Schedules seem to fill up over night, you're worried about easy meals and making sure you or your kiddo has matching socks for at least the first week of school. Decorating your home to your comfort level in this time can be a challenge. Some might say it’s not even worth it. And that just isn’t true! A decorated home is a happy and peaceful home. Those decorations do not have to be extravagant or expensive. At Trellis Marketplace, we are big fans of the in-between season or the TRANSITIONAL seasons in life for one major reason. Simplicity.

These are the times that you really don't need to do to much to guide peace into your home. Neutral pampas, soft dried flowers, easy leaves to rearrange in different areas of the home are key to having a sweet, soft whimsical presence, while still being able to play with structure and stability.

Some might roll their eyes at the plainness of neutral colors, but we look at them as a doorway to pulling those deep dark colors and unique pops of color in our home decor. Dried flowers, grass, and leaves bridge the connect from an easy breezy happy summer time to the vibrant, grounding, and assuring season the autumn brings us all.  

I was really drawn to this idea of how to find peace and productivity during what can feel like a weird time of transition. I kept coming back to the pampas that we have in the shop, not just because I am obsessed with this batch, but because these sprigs offer a friendliness to literally any space without breaking your wallet. AND you can use them through and through these upcoming seasons instead of flipping though home decor over and over and over again.

Keep it easy, simple, and sweet on your soul during a new time of change. Let us help you welcome these transitions with a sense of peace and grace.

Design is thinking made visual
— Saul Bass

Cozy Summer Collection with Trellis Online Marketplace

Vacations, pool parties, holidays, everyone seems to be getting away in the summer! Whether you’re getting away or snuggling up at home, Trellis Marketplace has something for you!

For us at Trellis Marketplace, there really is no place like wherever you call home! Home is such a special concept that our vendors emulate in their collections every day.

Introducing the “Cozy Summer” Collection!

The Cozy Summer Collection is here and we are so stocked! This collection features five of our fabulous vendors, Apothic Oils, Sage Space, Whipporwill Gift Shop, Designs by Allie Reilly, and The Cozy Creator.

The best part! This collection is available online & in store! Ship it to your home or pick it up in store, whichever works for you!

Conversations with Business Owners in a Close Knit Community

This past week, I had the time to meet and engage with a few fellow business owners. I often find the most helpful nuggets of inspiration in the moments that linger after the initial meeting. Here is a brief video of thoughts- just 5 mins - of impressions after this meeting. Check out our new Youtube channel, we are working on creating a place where you can interact with us more often. We are new to this level of content, we definitely need to work with it a bit more and learn all the ropes. We are excited to share with you on a different level!

Link Here: Video - Small Business Owner's Thoughts

We are really exited here at Trellis Marketplace, we have a few new ventures coming to the surface.. we can’t wait to share with you! Until then, please stay tuned for more updates and announcements.

- Charley Montgomery

Owner & Operator