Nestled in the foothills of Woodland Park, The Marketplace & Makerspace celebrated its grand re-opening earlier this spring. The store is the brainchild of owner Andrea Connelly, who also founded sustainable home and wellness brand Hunt & Homestead with her husband, Tim. The Marketplace stocks mostly local products (think pantry items, candles, fragrance, skincare and jewelry) from more than 130 vendors who share the same ethos: supporting entrepreneurs within the community.
“Our store has become known as a gathering spot,” Andrea says. “It’s not just a store. It’s a community hub.”
Brand Beginnings
From the start, Hunt & Homestead prioritized family life and sustainable living. After a rigorous IVF journey that led to health challenges, Andrea turned to natural practices to heal her body and create awareness for others—encouraging them to consider the products they consume and their possible long-term effects.
As foster parents during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Connollys faced a challenge with the national formula shortage. Caring for their baby was top priority, so they found a solution that’s now central to their brand: goats. Goat milk, particularly from the Nigerian breed, delivers nutrients essential to growing bodies. What began as a way to nourish their son has evolved into a product line of soaps, sleep butters, shampoos and skincare, with 75 Hunt & Homestead products available in several states and in local boutiques like MatchBox Candle Co. and Hunt + Gather.
“I’ve always loved goats,” says Andrea, who currently has six Nigerian and Nubian goats on her property. “I love being sustainable. It’s important for us to be as healthy as possible.”
A Place for Creativity
The Marketplace offers a vendor-centric space for the Woodland Park community to shop locally and support Colorado artisans. Andrea is involved in every aspect of the business, encouraging, mentoring and coaching vendors on how to facilitate success and business growth. At its recent ribbon cutting, vendors used their own scissors to affirm their collaborative spirit.
Located within The Marketplace, The Makerspace also offers a range of community-led classes and events, from painting to mosaic workshops to candle making. “I think it’s important to support local,” Andrea says. “The vendors are what make this store what it is.”
Continued Sustainability
From homesteading practices to hunting, the Connollys are invested in sustainable living. Whether it’s growing fresh foods from a home garden, exploring the idea of raising your own flock or increasing your knowledge of Colorado hunting practices, Andrea and Tim encourage exploration. They also offer insight on how to start your journey toward a more sustainable lifestyle via social media, blogs and a forthcoming podcast.
“There are so many benefits,” Andrea says. The homesteading journey “can be whatever you make it.”
Hunt & Homestead, The Marketplace & Makerspace
1099 US 24, Woodland Park
huntandhomesteadmarketplace.com