Storms End Homestead Finds Its Roots at Kitchen Incubator
From a young age, Sarah Fenton has always been an artist who wanted to learn new things. That creativity and pursuit of new skills led her to photography, a journey into entrepreneurship, and today, a new chapter as the Hazleton Kitchen Incubator’s latest client with her nature-focused business, Storms End Homestead.
A Personal Project That Grew Into a Business
Founded in 2017, Storms End Homestead combines the art of nature with practical, sustainable living. The business began as a personal project on Fenton’s one-acre homestead, where she learned to grow her own food and raise chickens. As her family expanded, she began exploring alternative ways of living and returning to nature—eventually discovering elderberry syrup and fire cider, the first roots of what would become a growing business.
Fenton’s family and friends encouraged her to share her products with others, and her hobby soon budded into a community-focused venture. Though hesitant at first, she took a chance—and it paid off. “I started with a bit of fiber artwork and some homemade products at my first show, and it just kept growing,” Fenton explained.
As the business grew, Fenton knew it was time to take the next steps. “It became clear that I needed to figure out the next steps to make this a legitimate venture that could support my family,” she said. “I believe we’re happiest when doing what we love, so turning a passion into something that supports your family shouldn’t be something to fear.”
A New Chapter at the Hazleton Kitchen Incubator
A friend connected Fenton with Jocelyn Sterenchock, CAN DO’s Director of Economic Development, and that’s when she learned about the Hazleton Kitchen Incubator program powered by The Hazleton Innovation Collaborative (THInC). While she was immediately interested in joining the commercially licensed facility, it took roughly two years to get into the space due to the unique nature of her product offerings. Though elderberry syrup and fire cider are both foods, they are also herbal products—complicating the licensing process.
Even with a slower-than-usual start, the benefits of joining the Hazleton Kitchen Incubator came quickly—especially expanded production. Before joining the incubator, Fenton made her products at home for family and friends. Now, she’s able to reach more people through her increased capacity. “Being part of the incubator has been fantastic. I’ve been able to triple my production,” she said.
With certification and access to the kitchen, Fenton plans to expand into the wholesale market and build a stronger presence in local communities. Currently, she’s updating labels and strategizing ways to get into bigger pharmacies.
A Name Rooted in Meaning
The name Storms End Homestead is rooted in history and personal growth, representing the end of one chapter and the beginning of another—both in her life and in the history of the property. “I think there’s something to say about overcoming hardships and becoming stronger. Even though one storm passes, there’s always a new one to come, but they don’t last forever.”
You can shop the full range of Storms End Homestead products on their website.
For more information about THInC, the Hazleton Kitchen, the CAN BE Innovation Center, or starting a business within the Greater Hazleton Area, visit canbe.biz or contact Nico Makuta at nmakuta@hazletoncando.com.
