Meet the Makers: BEL Home Bakery & Grands Designs Woodworks

Each week leading up to our Farm-to-Table Dinner on November 9th, we’re spotlighting two incredible makers from the Oconee Farmers Market—🥖 one baker, who brings warmth and flavor to our tables, and🔨 one artisan, whose craft adds creativity and beauty to our community.

This week, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Bonnie Stahl of BEL Home Bakery and Mark & “Yaya” Palmer of Grands Designs Woodworks.

Mark & “Yaya” Palmer of Grands Designs Woodworks 🔨🌲

For Mark and “Yaya” Palmer, creativity has always been part of their story—but it wasn’t until 2018 that their passion for woodworking blossomed into Grands Designs Woodworks, a thriving business rooted in faith, family, and craftsmanship.

Born and raised in Athens-Clarke County, the Palmers devoted 40 years to local ministry before taking on a new adventure. Mark, a lifelong creator, was encouraged by Yaya and their son Jared to share his handcrafted pieces beyond family and friends. He took a leap of faith—and in one weekend sold 14 cutting boards on Facebook. That single spark launched a journey they never imagined, and they haven’t looked back since.

Today, Grands Designs Woodworks is known for heirloom-quality pieces crafted with care, from cutting boards to custom designs. Every board tells a story of tradition, family, and dedication—values that Mark and Yaya have carried into every stage of their lives.

When you pick up one of their creations, you’re not just holding a piece of wood—you’re holding a piece of their story: a journey of faith, courage, and the beauty of building something that lasts.

Bonnie Stahl of BEL Home Bakery 🍞✨

Some of the best things in life begin simply. For Bonnie Stahl, it started with an interest in sourdough. What began as a way to bake for her family soon grew into a deep love for the craft of breadmaking—and a desire to nourish, not just feed, the people she loves most.

The name BEL Home Bakery carries a special meaning: it’s inspired by Bonnie’s family—Bonnie, Ellie, and Lilly (BEL). Each loaf, roll, scone, and cookie is lovingly crafted with them in mind, and that same care now extends to her community.

Bonnie says, “I wanted to nourish my family instead of just feeding them. Now I get to share the joy of sourdough with my area.” That joy shows in every rustic loaf and tender baked treat she brings to the Oconee Farmers Market.

At BEL Home Bakery, the ingredients are simple, but the heart behind each creation is what makes it extraordinary. When you stop by Bonnie’s booth, you’re not just taking home bread—you’re sharing in a story of family, tradition, and love.

✨ Next week: We’ll meet Marybeth Delay of Dark Corner Candle Co. 🕯 and Sharman Whymss of Whymss Farm 🌱—two makers who infuse light, fragrance, and sustainability into our market community.