Behind the scenes at the Sun Peaks Farmers’ Market

Every summer, the Sun Peaks Farmers’ Market brings together vendors, visitors and locals in the heart of the village. Against the backdrop of alpine peaks, the market offers not only fresh food and handmade goods, but also the chance to connect with the people who make them.

The market has become a tradition for many, showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the region. From stained glass to raw honey to sustainable fashion, each booth tells a story.

Stained glass with a modern twist

One of those stories belongs to Marlie Marchewka, stained-glass artist and owner of M&J,  who first learned the craft nearly a decade ago. Largely self-taught, she creates vibrant pieces inspired by the natural beauty of British Columbia.

“My style is best described as a modern take on a classic form,” Marchewka said. “I love bringing something timeless into a new light.”

She often collaborates with her partner Joey, who works with reclaimed barnwood, blending glass and wood into one-of-a-kind pieces. For Marchewka, the farmers market is about more than selling; it’s about connection. 

“I love meeting people and sharing my story. Markets are fun because you get that human connection you can’t always find online.”

Sweet honey

For Lawrence Bergstrand of Sun Hill Apiaries, the market is the perfect place to share his raw honey, produced just 20 minutes from Sun Peaks. A beekeeper since 2009, Bergstrand offers clover honey, known for its sweetness and alfalfa honey, with a more earthy, full-bodied flavour.

“My honey is raw, which means it isn’t pasteurized,” Bergstrand explained. “It’s as natural as it comes.”

What started as a hobby grew into a small business, with the farmers’ market providing the ideal outlet.

“The hobby has to pay for itself,” Bergstrand joked. “My bees produce more honey than I can use, so I sell the excess. The market works perfectly. It’s close, has great hours and always brings in a diverse group of people.”

Fashion with a purpose

This year, the market welcomed a new vendor: Kyra Deakin-Macey, founder of Nomad Upcycled. Her mission is to reduce waste and combat fast fashion by transforming thrifted and discarded textiles into unique, wearable art.

“Upcycling is about taking something old and giving it new life,” Deakin-Macey explained. “A lot of the time, I’ll find things that are slightly damaged and I work around that damage to make something new. It’s satisfying because it’s creative, sustainable and it shows people that fashion doesn’t have to be disposable.”

For Deakin-Macey, the farmers’ market has been an encouraging first step in growing her brand. 

“The vibe here is really good. People have been so supportive. It’s been a busy season, and I’ll definitely be back next year.”

More than a market

What ties these vendors together is not only their craft, but their connection to the community. 

Whether it’s the sparkle of stained glass, the taste of raw honey or the creativity of upcycled fashion, the Sun Peaks Farmers’ Market is about more than goods — it’s about stories, sustainability and a sense of place.

“When something you’ve poured your passion into resonates with someone else, that’s the best feeling,” Marchewka said. 

That’s what keeps both vendors and visitors coming back each summer: the chance to share, connect and celebrate the creativity of Sun Peaks.