Carrier Roasting Company

There’s something quietly magical about a great cup of coffee. It’s comfort and clarity in the same sip. It’s ritual, reset, and “okay, now I can talk to humans.”

In Vermont, we’re lucky to have makers who treat coffee like craft—not commodity. And that’s exactly why we’re thrilled to spotlight Carrier Roasting Company, a local roaster rooted in Northfield with a deep commitment to quality, community, and transparency.

Meet Carrier Roasting Company

Carrier Roasting Co. is driven by a set of core values that feel very Vermont: hospitality, quality, community, transparency, and a desire to improve.
They roast in Northfield, a rural town where relationships matter—where local milk deliveries, nearby farm-made caramel sauce, and pastries from the neighborhood baker are simply part of everyday life.

That close connection to small-scale food production influences how Carrier approaches coffee: sourcing, roasting, and serving in ways that reflect clear supply chains, real relationships, and care for the people behind the product.

What’s in a Name? The “Carrier” Story

Their name is a nod to the carrier pigeon—the humble messenger who finds her way home from far away, delivering something important.
For Carrier Roasting Co., the “distant place” might be Ethiopia or Peru, and the “message” is the story and flavor of a coffee grown with skill and intention—now arriving in your mug.

What They Roast

Carrier offers a lineup of coffees designed for real life (and real tastebuds), including:

• Whole bean coffees for daily brewing

• Subscriptions for the “never run out” crowd

• Options like instant coffee for ultra-easy, high-quality coffee moments

Whether you’re a pour-over purist or a “give me caffeine, I have meetings” realist, they’ve built a range that keeps quality front and center.

Sourcing: Quality + Transparency, Always

Carrier keeps sourcing simple—but not easy. Their two main criteria are:

1. Quality

2. Transparency of supply

They prioritize these over third-party certifications (which can sometimes fall short), choosing instead to do the extra work to understand where coffee comes from and who produced it.

One detail we love: Carrier notes that by focusing on quality and transparency, they can pay higher prices—on average nearly 3x more than the current Fair Trade minimum price—and return to the same producers again and again through long-term relationships.

That’s the kind of behind-the-scenes integrity you can taste.

Roasting: Data-Driven Craft (With a Human Heart)

Carrier’s roasting philosophy starts with respect: the hardest work happens at origin, and the coffee bean is the seed of a fruit.
Their goal is to develop each coffee’s unique flavors—think ripe fruit and caramel notes—without obscuring them through uneven, under-, or over-roasting.

They take a data-driven, progressive approach, and they taste every single batch they roast to ensure quality and consistency.
In other words: no coasting. Just constant refinement.

Serving: Methodical, Recipe-Driven, and Relationship-Focused

Great coffee isn’t just roasted well—it’s brewed and served well, too.

Carrier believes in a methodical, recipe-driven approach for consistent brewing, paired with transparency and relationship-building whether they’re serving in their own cafe, working with wholesale partners, or supporting home brewers.
And yes, they say the quiet part out loud: even the best coffee won’t shine if it isn’t served with care.

Visit Them (Or Make a Day of It)

If you find yourself near either of their coffee bars, it’s worth the detour.

Northfield (Flagship Coffee Bar)
A newly renovated cafe (renovated in 2024) with espresso drinks, drip coffee, tea, and locally made baked goods—plus indoor and seasonal outdoor seating.

• 17 East Street, Northfield

• Open daily, 7:30am–3:00pm

Burlington Coffee Bar (Inside Jake’s ONE Market)
Located in Burlington’s Old North End, serving espresso drinks, drip coffee, tea, and locally made baked goods.

• 242 N. Winooski Ave, Burlington

• 7:30am–1:00pm Tuesday–Saturday (closed Sunday & Monday)

How to Enjoy Carrier at Home

A few simple (and delicious) ways to make the most of your beans:

• Keep it fresh: Grind just before brewing when you can.

• Try one variable at a time: Adjust grind size, then dose, then brew time—small changes, big payoff.

• Pair intentionally: A bright, fruit-forward coffee loves a buttery pastry; a deeper, chocolatey cup is excellent with a nutty biscotti or simple toast with good jam.

And if you like your coffee routine to feel effortless: subscriptions exist for a reason.

Why We Love Them

Carrier Roasting Company brings together everything we want in a local producer: craft, transparency, and heart.

They’re building something that reflects Vermont at its best—community-minded, quality-driven, and grounded in real relationships from farm to cup.

Next time you’re choosing beans, consider this your sign from the universe (delivered by carrier pigeon, naturally).

Sweet Fern Gardens Teas

Bringing the goodness of the garden to your teacup (and your daily routine).

There’s a particular kind of Vermont comfort that only shows up when the kettle starts to sing. The day slows down. Shoulders drop. You suddenly remember you have hands… and they deserve to be wrapped around a warm mug.

That’s exactly the energy behind Sweet Fern Gardens—a line of small-batch herbal teas crafted in Roxbury, Vermont, with a deep respect for plants, purity, and the kind of simple self-care that actually sticks.

At East Warren Community Market, we love highlighting producers whose work feels both grounded and intentional—and Sweet Fern Gardens hits that sweet spot: beautiful, practical, and rooted in real wellness.

Meet the Maker: Jillian Abraham (and the Sweet Fern Gardens story)

Sweet Fern Gardens is led by Jillian Abraham, who brings a larger wellness lens to everything she creates—she’s a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Regenerative Health Practitioner, and her work is all about helping people reconnect with their bodies and daily habits in a sustainable way.

The Sweet Fern Gardens story began in 2015, when Jillian and her sister-in-law (both new mothers at the time) dove deeper into herbalism and began creating blends—teas, tinctures, elixirs, and more—from their love of medicinal plants. Today, Jillian continues Sweet Fern Gardens from her home apothecary, adding new small-batch offerings over time.

What makes Sweet Fern Gardens teas different

A lot of teas say “herbal.” Sweet Fern Gardens lives it—right down to the way the herbs are grown, gathered, and blended.

Here’s what stands out:

Truly small-batch, made in the mountains of Central Vermont

Sweet Fern Gardens handcrafts small batches of herbal teas (and other herbal products) in the mountains of Central Vermont—the kind of place where the air feels like a reset button.

Thoughtful sourcing: garden-grown, respectfully wild-crafted, and organic-farm sourced

Their herbs come from three aligned sources:

• Locally grown in their own herbal gardens

• Responsibly and respectfully wild-crafted

• Sourced from trusted organic farms

This matters because you can taste the difference when plants are handled with care—not rushed, not over-processed, not stripped of what makes them vibrant.

Whole herbs, in their natural state

These blends are made with herbs “in their whole and natural state,” which helps preserve aromatics, flavor, and the feeling that you’re drinking something real.

Naturally caffeine-free (unless clearly noted)

If you’re looking to reduce caffeine without sacrificing ritual, this is your lane. Sweet Fern Gardens notes their teas are naturally caffeine-free unless a special batch is clearly labeled otherwise.

From garden to jar: the care behind the cup

One of the things we appreciate most about Sweet Fern Gardens is that the “wellness” angle isn’t trendy or loud—it’s woven into the process.

Jillian describes the teas as a highlight of the collection, featuring “delicious blends of adaptogenic herbs” chosen for gentle nourishment and stress-supporting properties.

Translated into everyday life: these are the kinds of blends you reach for when you want to feel more like yourself again—without turning self-care into a full-time job.

A tour of the tea blends we’re loving

Sweet Fern Gardens offers a lineup that feels both approachable and special—like you could serve it to a friend or keep it all to yourself (we support either choice).

Mint Bliss

A refreshing, anytime blend with peppermint, spearmint, and lemon balm—described as inspiring “a sense of calm and well-being.”

Vita Blast

Bright and tangy with hibiscus and rosehips, plus deeply nourishing herbs like nettle and oatstraw. It’s positioned as a refreshing way to invigorate your day.

Citrus Ginger

Warming ginger meets lemongrass and citrus zest—delicious hot or iced.

Evening Peace

A wind-down blend featuring spearmint, chamomile, oat tops, catnip, and lavender—made for that “exhale” moment before bed.

Tranquil Heart (and Tulsi Spice)

A floral, aromatic blend featuring rose, linden, peppermint, and other soothing botanicals—crafted to “ease your heart and lift your spirit.”

How to brew it (simple, and worth doing right)

Sweet Fern Gardens keeps brewing refreshingly unfussy:

• Use 1 tablespoon per cup of boiling water (ideal temp to retain the most herbal nutrients: 155-180°F)

• Cover and steep 5–15 minutes

• Strain and enjoy!

That “cover and steep” detail is small—but it’s part of what keeps the aromatics in your cup instead of evaporating into the kitchen air (though your kitchen will still smell amazing).

The wellness piece (without turning tea into a lecture)

Jillian’s broader work is rooted in holistic wellness and creating sustainable, body-honoring habits. And that shows up in the teas in a way that feels… kind.

Her take is that herbal tea can be part of your daily “medicine cabinet”—supporting hydration and offering a gentle way to align your routine with what you need. She also offers custom tea blends for specific needs if someone reaches out.

We’ll say it like this: the goal isn’t perfection. It’s a small ritual that helps you come back to center.

Why we love Sweet Fern Gardens (EWCM edition)

• Made in Vermont (Roxbury), in truly small batches

• High-quality herbs: garden-grown, respectfully wild-crafted, and organic-sourced

• Naturally caffeine-free blends (unless clearly noted)

• Whole-herb teas that taste vibrant and alive

• A maker who genuinely understands wellness as a lived practice—not a buzzword

What makes them unique

• “Goodness of the garden” is literal here—the sourcing and process are the product

• Blends that balance flavor + function, without being intense or medicinal-tasting

• A lineup that covers the full day: invigorating, grounding, and evening-calming options

• Custom blends available for those who want something more personalized

Find Sweet Fern Gardens teas at EWCM

You can shop Sweet Fern Gardens teas here at East Warren Community Market, and at our coffee station so you can take a hot cup with you on the go!

Next time you’re in, grab a jar, choose a mug you love, and let tea be the easiest good decision you make all day.

Note: Herbal teas are a beautiful part of a wellness routine, but this post is for general information and enjoyment—not medical advice.

For more info on Jillian and her work, visit her site at Jillian Abraham

Ariel's Lavender and Vanilla London Fog Latte

This Earl Grey tea Latte with Ariel's Lavender & Vanilla Honey ( London Fog) is simply delicious, and such an easy warm, healthy drink to make at home.

💛 2 tbsp. of Ariel’s Lavender & Vanilla Infused Honey ( scoop some of the lavender and vanilla beans from the honey and add them right into the drink)

💛 2 cups of water

💛 2 Earl Grey tea bags

💛 4 cups of your choice of milk

Instructions
Set a medium pot over high heat and add the water. When the water begins to boil, turn the heat to low and add the tea bags. Let the tea steep until it's as dark and strong as possible (about 5-7 minutes).

Remove the tea bags from the pot and stir in the honey & spices from the infusion until it dissolves.

Add the milk & stir until it reaches a simmer. Keep the heat low to prevent the mixture from boiling and to maintain a low simmer. Let the mixture simmer for about 4-5 minutes over low heat, stirring every minute or two.

Strain the mixture as you pour into 4 mugs.

ENJOY!
💛

Want to know more about Ariel and her amazing honey infusions? Check out this in-depth blog post HERE.

Ariel's Honey Infusions

If you’ve wandered through our market and found yourself drawn to a shelf glittering with amber jars, each glowing like captured sunlight, chances are you’ve already encountered the sweet magic of Ariel’s Honey Infusions.

This small but mighty business is the brainchild of Ariel, a passionate herbalist, beekeeper, and artist of nature’s sweetest gift—raw Vermont honey. With a background steeped in handcrafting and a life surrounded by pollinator gardens and buzzing bees, Ariel doesn’t just make honey—she tells a story with every jar.

And once you’ve had a taste of her infusions, you’ll realize: this is no ordinary honey.

A Passion for Bees, a Mission for the Earth

At the heart of Ariel’s work is a deep respect for the bees themselves—those tiny, tireless workers that make so much of our world bloom.

Ariel's mission is clear:

“To offer customers locally sourced, raw Vermont honey infusions while spreading understanding and awareness about the vital role bees play in keeping the planet healthy.”

That mission guides everything she does—from her TopBar hives nestled just outside her honey studio, to the way she sources herbs from local farms, and even how she talks about her work at the market.

Spend just a few minutes with her and you’ll walk away not only with a jar of richly flavored honey, but also with a greater appreciation for pollinators and the ecosystems they sustain.

Why Raw Honey Matters

In an era of mass production, raw honey is something worth celebrating—and protecting.

Ariel’s honey is never pasteurized or processed, which means all the naturally occurring enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants stay intact. These nutrients are what give raw honey its legendary benefits for immune health, digestion, and energy—plus, its rich, complex flavor is worlds away from the overly sweet, one-note varieties you might find in big-box stores.

Every jar starts with honey harvested from hives kept without the use of pesticides, chemicals, or synthetic sprays. Ariel partners only with ethical, local Vermont beekeepers who honor sustainable harvesting practices—never taking more than the bees can spare and always putting the health of the hive first.

This care not only ensures healthier bees but also results in purer, more nutrient-rich honey that tastes like the land it comes from.

Handcrafted in Small Batches—With a Herbalist’s Touch

Much like a chef working with seasonal ingredients, Ariel infuses her honey with organic herbs and spices that reflect the rhythm of nature. And because she crafts her infusions in small batches, each one carries a unique energy and intention.

You might find:

• Lavender and rose for calm and sweetness

• Cayenne or cinnamon for warmth and fire

• Stinging nettle and raspberry leaf for their herbal vitality

Whenever possible, these ingredients are sourced from local, organic Vermont farms, adding yet another layer of meaning and place to each jar.

The result is a honey that doesn’t just taste good—it feels good. Warming, comforting, invigorating, soothing—depending on the blend, Ariel’s infusions are like tiny, golden potions.

Beyond the Spoon: How to Use Ariel’s Honey Infusions

While most of us are happy to sneak a spoonful of honey straight from the jar (we won’t judge), Ariel’s creations beg to be enjoyed in creative ways. Think:

• Swirled into herbal teas to support immunity during cold season

• Drizzled over cheese boards for sweet-and-savory elegance

• Stirred into seasonal lattes, like a cozy chai or golden milk (or this London Fog recipe!)

• Added to yogurt, oatmeal, or roasted nuts

• Glazed onto baked Brie or roasted veggies

And if you're lucky enough to get your hands on her raw Vermont honeycomb, it makes a stunning centerpiece for any table—whether nestled into a charcuterie board or melted into a warm croissant.

A Place Rooted in Nature and Love

All of this beauty is created from a place that sounds like something out of a storybook: Ariel’s honey office is nestled beside wildflower fields, pollinator gardens, and a heritage apple orchard she’s lovingly restoring. Every day, she works to the music of buzzing bees and the rustle of wind in the trees—a life lived in tune with the natural world.

This connection to land, plants, and pollinators informs everything she does.

Through her work, Ariel inspires customers to plant their own pollinator gardens, support local farms, and even consider keeping bees themselves. It’s about more than just honey—it’s about building a future where people live more closely with the rhythms of nature.

Find Ariel’s Honey Infusions at the Market

We’re so proud to feature Ariel’s Honey Infusions at our market. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt gift, a delicious kitchen staple, or just a little sunshine in a jar, Ariel’s honey is a perfect place to start.

Come by for a taste, have a chat with Ariel if she’s here doing a demo (next one is December 19), and take home something truly special—not just a product, but a story of bees, blossoms, and the joy of local food done right.