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In the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, where tradition and craftsmanship are woven into everyday life, Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe has been delighting visitors for generations with its authentic Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods. From freshly baked shoofly pies to sweet, nostalgic whoopie pies, Bird-in-Hand is more than just a bakery; it’s a destination that brings people together.
When it came time to elevate their gift baskets, the team at Bird-in-Hand turned to Carpenter Core for a solution that would both enhance their brand and offer customers a keepsake to treasure.
A Taste of Lancaster County, packaged with care
As Mail Order Coordinator for Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe, Alicia Burton helps bring the flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch Country to customers near and far. One of their most popular offerings is the Taste of Lancaster County Gift Crate, a thoughtfully curated selection of the region’s best-loved comfort foods.
Bird-in-Hand Bakery’s A Taste of Lancaster County Gift Crate
“Our Gift Crate features full-size packages of our scratch-made Amish-style baked goods, our special Signature Blend coffee, a Bird-in-Hand souvenir mug, and other locally made treats,” Alicia explains. Each item is individually wrapped and carefully packed in a rustic wooden crate, customized with the Bird-in-Hand logo. “A lot of people ordering from our online store have visited Bird-in-Hand before,” Alicia says. “The crate is a nice reminder of their trip and time here.”
Rather than a traditional gift box, the bakery wanted packaging that would serve as both a practical container and a lasting keepsake. Carpenter Core’s handcrafted wooden crates provided the perfect solution.
A natural fit for Bird-in-Hand’s brand
Bird-in-Hand is known for its commitment to quality, handmade goods, and a deep connection to its local community—values that align perfectly with Carpenter Core’s philosophy. Each Carpenter Core crate is crafted from sustainably sourced wood, reinforced for durability, and finished with a rustic sawtooth texture that complements Bird-in-Hand’s aesthetic.
“We liked the idea of the crate because a lot of our culture here is very farm-based and handmade,” Alicia explains. “They're better quality than the ones we've found in some other places, and the ability to customize them with our logo was an added bonus.”
A Taste of Lancaster County Gift Crate, packaged in an open slat style crate with custom logo by Carpenter Core.
Beyond their role in gift packaging, the crates have also found a place in Bird-in-Hand’s retail store. "We've begun using them a bit as well in our retail store for display purposes," Alicia shares. "We love that they're handmade. They go well with our branding."
What started as an order for 24 crates has grown into an ongoing partnership. Over time, Bird-in-Hand has increased its orders, incorporating their logo onto the crates to create a branded, gift-worthy experience.
More than just packaging
For customers who purchase the Lancaster County gift crate, the experience doesn’t end once the treats are gone. The sturdy wooden crate is designed to be repurposed—whether for storage, home décor, or as a keepsake from a memorable trip.
That sustainability and longevity reflect Carpenter Core’s mission to create products that last. As Alicia puts it, "I really appreciate the quality and that they're American-made. It's just a great fit for our product."
Pictured is a 13 in x 7 ½ in x 3 ½ in open slat style crate with custom message by Carpenter Core
At Carpenter Core, we believe that every handcrafted crate tells a story. Whether it's the artisans who build them, the businesses who use them, or the customers who receive them, each crate becomes a part of someone’s journey. We’re proud to be part of Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Cafe’s story, helping them share a taste of Lancaster County in a beautiful and meaningful way.
Want to see the Lancaster County Gift Crate for yourself? Check it out here.
This article was made possible by support from Carpenter Core. We make small customizable wooden crates and boxes used for gift baskets and product packaging.
Create lasting impressions with custom crates
At Carpenter Core, we specialize in crafting high-quality, custom wooden crates and boxes that make every gift or product display a memorable experience. Whether you're elevating your brand or creating a keepsake for your customers, our handcrafted crates are the perfect solution. Let us help you tell your story with craftsmanship and care.