By Jamie Lasorsa, Reporter
Jennifer Mason and Ann Marie Jaber, long time Sterling residents, formed an unlikely friendship back in 2020 when they realized their two similar small businesses, Mason Custom Crafts and Thimble & Thicket, could better thrive as one with both their efforts backing just one company, rather than being “friendly adversaries” and continuing to be in competition of one another.
The ladies jokingly speak of how they knew of each other, as their children were in the same grade in town, had activities together, and they both saw each other’s businesses start around the same time, but they were “secret rivals”. Until one day, the unimaginable happened, and both became co-chairs of the school PTO. Through this, the women saw they worked well together and between Jen’s business sense and AnnMarie’s creativity, the two decided to collaborate their efforts and form Beyond the Mantel, a home décor company, specializing in handmade wooden signs and other customized pieces.
The two started discussing the possibility of collaborating in 2020 and made it official in 2021, while the country was on high alert due to the pandemic, and many needed a creative outlet. The women began offering Zoom classes, where they would instruct others on how to successfully complete a craft from the comfort of their home, offering human interaction, but with health and safety in mind.
Their goal for their company is to appeal to those who want more than just a sign… something that can be personalized, passed down through family, and hold a special meaning. “It’s a nice feeling to know that something [we made] is going to be passed down” says Ann Marie. Many of their items can be seen on display in local establishments in Sterling, Holden, and Groton. However, winner of the farthest order shipped, is a tie between orders that were delivered to Japan and China!
Although you can see many of their creative pieces on their website and social media pages, custom orders are welcomed, and they can even help with design ideas!
When the ladies aren’t getting crafty, they have other interests that keep them busy, along with being very active with their families. You may see Ann Marie working in the school library or singing at a local establishment with her band 50 Proof. While Jenn may be found at her other business which she shares with her husband, Sterling Street Brewery.
The ladies are planning to attend a few fairs this year and share their goods. The Conant Library Arts and Craft Fair on November 19th, and the Wachusett Regional High School Booster Club Fair, usually also held in November are just a few they know of right now, while they are also hoping to be chosen to join other artisans at “stART on the Street” in Worcester, which is taking place September 18th.
The Beyond the Mantel Etsy page will be coming soon, however in the meantime you can reach them on their Facebook page and website: beyondthemantel.com.