1 of 4
Photos courtesy Cork Collection, Beth Myers
2 of 4
Photos courtesy Cork Collection, Beth Myers
3 of 4
Photos courtesy Cork Collection, Beth Myers
4 of 4
Photos courtesy Cork Collection, Beth Myers
Jill Fanning has a degree in electrical engineering but spends her days focusing on a different kind of engineering—“I am now engineering parties,” Jill exclaims. Her passion for parties led her and her family to open an event facility at Cork Factory Hotel in Lancaster, PA. Cork Factory Hotel, a converted 19th-century factory, includes Cork & Cap Restaurant, The Baker’s Table bakery, and Cork Collection boutique, making it the ideal destination for special events.
Jill loves throwing a good party, but her true passion seems to be helping others plan their perfect event.
“I love bringing people together to create memories,” says Jill. “Whether it’s as simple as getting the family together for pizza and board games or the most beautiful and elaborate Easter table, I believe traditions make time with family and friends unique and treasured.” Still, she adds, “No matter how simple the tradition, the details are important.”
That focus on details led to the conception of the Cork Collection, a boutique at Cork Factory Hotel that offers a treasure trove of unique products for your special day. As Jill was working on advertising to showcase a variety of personalities with the event spaces at the hotel, she realized she was gathering products, some not even labeled as bridal, from wholesalers she’d worked with in the past.
“I thought, ‘how great would it be for a bride to be able to come to one place for her guestbook, toasting flute, invitations, bridesmaid gifts, etc., rather than shopping at various places?’” Jill says.
Cork Collection offers that one-stop shop but also delivers products that are interesting and unique; it has an array of jewelry, trinkets, handbags, and gifts tailored toward any theme—from classic to bohemian and everything in between.
“I love keeping up with trends and hunting for unique products that you don’t normally see in big box stores, especially antiques,” says Jill.
Customers looking for inspiration for their special day will find a host of products personalized to their theme, as well as Cork Collection employees who are excited to help them create their vision.
“Not only do we source everything you need to create the feels,” says Jill. “We’re thrilled to help you put them together!”
Cork Collection creates “look books” of imaginary brides with a range of styles to help couples pinpoint their vision. They can browse through look books online, or through hardbound copies in the store and hotel, to see the venue styled in different looks. Once they select a bride whose style captures the vibe they envision, Cork Collection employees guide them to specific vendors and products to make the style their own.
“I want people to walk out feeling like they have something to add to their special day,” says Janelle Lountzis, a sales associate at Cork Collection. “I can sense their excitement and I feed off of that energy!”
Customers respond to that enthusiasm. “The Cork Collection staff are the most kind and genuine people,” says Melissa Carson Kriczky, a former bride and repeat customer. “Whenever we were in the store, it felt like we were spending time with old friends.”
Cork Collection was created based on Jill’s love of traditions, with the intent to help others make memorable traditions with the ones they love. But Jill acknowledges that people are busy, and many don’t have time to “create and source all of the elements” they want to bring together for an event. Cork Factory Hotel and Cork Collection, along with The Baker’s Table and Cork & Cap Restaurant, offer a destination that provides everything: accommodations, event space, invitations, wedding cake, and more.
Newly engaged couples interested in exploring the venue can attend events held several times yearly at Cork Collection and Cork Factory Hotel, including the upcoming White Out Event on Saturday, January 26th. They are offered tours of Cork Factory Hotel and a chance to explore the offerings at Cork Collection.
It’s not just newly engaged couples who enjoy Cork Factory Hotel. The historical hotel has something for everyone, from out of town guests to locals looking for a day of shopping and good eats. Jill is always excited to see past couples staying at the hotel for their anniversaries, whether it’s picking up their first anniversary cake tier from The Baker’s Table, dining in Cork & Cap Restaurant, or looking for unique anniversary gifts at Cork Collection. These repeat customers prove that it’s more than just a place for weddings; it’s a place for creating meaningful traditions.
Cork Collection
480 New Holland Ave., Suite 7103, Lancaster, PA
717-391-2675 / shopcorkcollection.com
