Emerson Creek Pottery & Tearoom is not a store; it is a true destination. The adjacent tearoom is not a restaurant; it is a haven.

Your GPS probably won’t bring you to the actual store, since you have to meander down a dirt road before you spot the charming renovated 100-year-old farmhouse which is the Emerson Creek Pottery Shop.

Emerson Creek is the only location in the Midwest to carry the entire line of Emerson Creek Pottery, which is made in Bedford, VA. Fifteen patterns are currently available and each piece is a true one-of-a-kind. All pieces are lead free, ovenproof, dishwasher and microwave safe. Prices range from $5.95 to $49.95. The store also offers a sampling of inspiring and whimsical handcrafted gifts.

In 2002, the horse stables of the barn were converted into a tearoom. The menu changes weekly and offers a variety of homemade soups, sandwiches and salads. Strawberry lemonade in a sugar-rimmed glass, the flower pot salad and peach blackberry cobbler are examples of delicious favorites.

Chris Demiduk, who owns Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom with her husband, Dave, has many plans for expansion. This year they are adding a patio onto the side of their barn and installing fire pits.

Demiduk said she hopes to offer BYOB events on the patio and provide cheese and music. She also imagines incorporating s'mores into wedding celebrations. They also are creating additional parking areas and the chicken coop is being converted into a bridal suite.

In a few years, Demiduk hopes to add a chapel  where she envisions couples renewing their vows.

Demiduk said is excited to work with future brides as a venue for their wedding or bridal shower. The location is versatile and can accommodate corporate events or family reunions. Each event is completely personalized.

Demiduk purchased the farm realizing its investment potential. She was then visiting family in Virginia and stumbled upon Emerson Creek Pottery. She realized it was a “great product at a good price and was made in the U.S.”

The product and original location drove Demiduk to bring the idea back to Oswego to “come for the day, enjoy the country air and forget everything.”

“If you listen to the customers, they will tell you what is next,” said Demiduk.

For example, Demiduk began serving lemonade to customers, which was well received so she expanded to boxed lunches so visitors could sit outside and enjoy a picnic. This idea expanded to the Tearoom, which started as five tables and now includes 14 tables and areas to eat on the patio.

“I will never settle and be satisfied,” said Demiduk, “I will continue to try something different and unique.

“I don’t think of myself as the owner,” said Demiduk. “No matter how busy we get, I still try to greet each person as if they are coming into my home.”

Emerson Creek employee Anita Dziedzic said she loves her job.

“Working here is just like heaven,” Dziedzid said.  

Emerson Creek Pottery will host its first Summerfest June 24-25. Vendors will offer their goods, including locally made honey and purses, in the barn and on the new patio. 

Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom is located at 5126 Stephens Road and is open Tuesday–Saturday. The shop is open 10-4; the tearoom is open 11 to 1:45 and reservations are recommended. Emerson Creek is open May–December. They close for the winter season because the roads make it too difficult to reach.