Get ready to explore a local gem in Cumberland Valley that is as unique as the natural beauty surrounding it. Earth Artisan & Outfitter invites you to connect with the planet through its thoughtfully curated earth-based art, goods, and outdoor gear. Rooted in a passion for sustainability and creativity, this small business offers more than just products—it's a hub for learning, inspiration, and embracing the “Life Wild & Free” spirit.
Learn more from owner and artist Jessica Miller.
Can you share a bit about your business and how it reflects the unique character of Cumberland Valley?
Earth Artisan & Outfitter specializes in mindfully connecting people to the planet and outfitting people for life with earth-based art, goods, gear, and guides for home, garden, and trail. We are located in the heart of Cumberland Valley, an area rich in nature, mountains, meadows, forests, fields, and glorious waterways. Earth helps connect people to these amazing areas of natural beauty and helps them better understand their essential part in the natural cycles of life in and around Cumberland Valley. Our shop is a hub of inspiration and resources that both celebrates and supports Life Wild and Free here in Cumberland Valley and everywhere you roam.
What inspired you to start your business, and how has the community influenced your journey?
Earth was inspired by how we live, work, and play and what we are most passionate about: the earth and the arts. I am an artist, art educator, and environmentalist. My husband, Kenny, is an ISA Certified Arborist, plant health care specialist, and professional fly fishing guide. We both grew up in Pennsylvania, but life has taken us on an incredible journey through many other parts of the country. We spend a lot of time out West and really love the mindset that emphasizes a close connection to nature and life outside -- always moving, playing, growing, and evolving. Hiking, exploring, fly fishing, playing in the dirt, and creating art in the wild is our true nature. Settling in Cumberland Valley allows us to enjoy every part of that and bring all our experiences to this charming college town that embraces thinking outside the box. There's nothing else like Earth, anywhere. It's a compilation of who we are, what we do, our life experiences, and our journey together over the past 30 years. We are a resource for learning, growing, and connecting, and we have been welcomed by those who love the earth as much as we do. We frequently hear that we are a hub of goodness and inspiration, and we feel the same about the customers who shop small with us. They inspire and support us to keep the good vibes flowing through a cycle of reciprocity. Earth is a community that all are welcome to be a part of.
What makes your products/services special?
Sustainability is a key part of how we live, work, and play and the practices we use in the shop. Our products are small batch, one-of-a-kind, and carefully curated for the highest quality, durability, and sustainability. We offer the best art, goods, and gear for those who value life outside. Everything is Earth Family Tested and Mother Nature Approved. All of the fine art and photography, and subsequent limited edition prints and notecards, are earth-based and nature-inspired, mostly created from my backpack as I hike and explore throughout the beautiful Cumberland Valley and across the country. Shopping small at Earth Artisan & Outfitter means you are a partner, believing in Life Wild & Free, mindfully connecting to the planet, and keeping the good vibes flowing by thinking globally and acting locally. Your purchases support sustainability and environmental and humanitarian initiatives. We work with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation, local state parks, and 15 other earth-based makers and organizations to give back to the planet and her people. There's no place like Earth, and the collection of knowledge, experience, and high-quality goods we offer cannot be found anywhere else.
What does supporting local businesses mean to you?
To me, it means supporting your community -- your friends and neighbors who have put down roots and invested themselves in the community you are part of. Supporting small local businesses means you understand and value the passion, ideas, and ingenuity the owners have put forth to create something special that enhances and improves the quality of life in our community: they could have gone anywhere, but they chose to be here. Few mega-corporations do the good that we do. Supporting small local businesses means you are supporting families -- real people who work hard, care about, and are passionate about what they do for the good of all. Small businesses are feet on the street. We're in touch with life here. Our kids go to school with your kids, and our families eat at your restaurants and shop in your specialty stores. We buy our produce at your farms, get our cars fixed at your garages, and get our building supplies at your hardware stores. There's a sense of reciprocity and goodwill that comes from keeping it small and local, with the folks you know at the helm. Support each other!
What is the one thing you would like visitors and residents to know about your business or Cumberland Valley that they might now already know?
It's surprising how many people don't know we're here and don't realize how amazing Cumberland Valley is! Here are a few highlights: Cumberland Valley and surrounding areas are a mecca for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Appalachian Trail and Tuscarora and Michaux State Forests are all part of the Cumberland Valley. The Cumberland Valley encompasses an ecosystem unlike any other, with species in our part of the eastern woodlands that do not exist together anywhere else on the planet. Earth Artisan & Outfitter is an ambassador to this way of life: play outside and care for each other and these amazing natural wonders. If safe, healthy habitats, clean water, clean air, and clean soil are important to you, then you will appreciate Earth Artisan Outfitter. Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, bird watchers, gardeners, and all people who love the planet will find resources and inspiration here.
Plan a Visit
Earth Artisan & Outfitter has been in business for 11 years, the first and longest-running earth-based small business in Carlisle. Our shop is located in a charming mid-1800s carriage house in the wilds of historic downtown Carlisle. The hours are seasonal: Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and other times by appointment. One Saturday each month, we offer Earth Happpenings, with eco-educators and earth-based makers on site to inspire the community. We also organize and host an Annual Earth Day Celebration in downtown Carlisle featuring over 20 different environmental educators and groups that share their expertise, plus activities mindfully connecting people to the planet so we can all learn, grow, and share together. Follow our Facebook page for this special event in April 2025.
