4 PEC Makers to Support This Holiday Season

If you’re looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful, and genuinely local, the County’s artisans deliver in every category. These items aren’t just things you buy, they’re pieces of PEC creativity you get to take home or share.

Here’s a look at some standout makers and how to find them.

1. The County Candle Co. (Soy Candles)

The County Candle Co. (based in Bloomfield) is a real PEC business making hand-poured soy-wax candles. Hand-poured in the County and made from 100% premium soy wax, cotton wicks, and phthalate-free fragrances infused with essential oils”.

They truly blend and pour their own soy candles locally. Packaging is also well-designed so the candles arrive gift-ready!

Where & Who: The County Candle Co. sells through local shops, markets, and online. You can also find them at County farmers’ markets and gift shops too!

2. Local Pottery & Functional Ceramics

Several County studios make handmade pottery (mugs, bowls, plates, vases, etc.) that are both beautiful and functional.

We suggest to visit The Ye11ow Studio and Cylinder Studio for local made pottery! All these ceramics are one-of-a-kind and well-made. You’ll often see natural glazes and simple County-inspired motifs.

3. Natural Bath & Body Makers

County artisans also produce handmade soaps, lotions, bath bombs, and similar products using natural ingredients. For example, Honey Pie Hives (Cherry Valley) is a PEC farm that makes cold-processed soaps “by hand here on our farm in Prince Edward County”.

Made from local ingredients and no chemical fragrances or colors. Local soap makers use essential oils for fragrance and avoid synthetics, meaning the scents are natural and skinsensitive. These items are popular local gifts because they’re quality and practical: a beautiful hand-poured soap bar, body butter, or bath bomb. Prices tend to be moderate (soap bars often $8–$12, bath bombs $5–$10, etc.).

4. Woodworkers & Furniture Makers (Functional Woodcraft)

Finally, PEC has skilled woodworkers making everyday heirloom pieces. A great example is Bark Woodshop & Studio (Hillier), which “specializes in end grain cutting boards and charcuterie boards” among other custom wood items. Bark’s site emphasizes that 'all our products are handmade in PEC' and known for its stunning woodwork from charcuterie boards to custom pieces that bring a warm, natural touch to any home.

These boards and utensils are often made from locally sourced hardwoods and finished with food-safe oils; they cost anywhere from ~$30 for a small board up to $200+ for a large or complex piece, reflecting the craftsmanship. Each piece is unique, so you get real quality and character. A well-made board or serving tray will last decades.

How to Find & Support County Makers

Farmers’ Markets: Regular markets are great one-stop shops. The Wellington Farmers’ Market (Bloomfield) is a year-round, pet-friendly market supporting County farmers and artisans. Picton also hosts seasonal markets, and many makers pop up at holiday markets in November/December. Go early for the best selection!

Studio Events:  The annual PEC Studio Tour lets you visit dozens of artist studios (ceramics, woodworking, textiles, etc.) across the County. It’s a fun way to meet makers in person and see how things are made. Even outside the tour, many artists host occasional open houses or workshops, follow them on Instagram/Facebook to catch those.

Local Shops & Galleries:  Some boutique shops curate multiple local makers under one roof. In Picton, places like The Handmade House, Books & Company (gift shop), or the Ye11ow Studio shop carry County-made items. Ice House Studios and Arts on Main often showcase local artisans too. These shops often stock candles, soaps, pottery, textiles, and more from area creators.

Buying local year-round is even better than shopping just at holiday time. Makers will remember your ongoing support, and you’ll always have unique gifts at the ready!