The Dainty Pear: A Journey from Kitchen Hobby to Lifestyle Brand in Midway
When Sarah Clark started her venture with the Dainty Pear, it emerged from a humble beginning. Creating hand-stamped jewelry as a hobby while balancing the demands of motherhood, she found herself knee-deep in festive orders, carefully stamping pendants right on her kitchen floor, often with a newborn nestled in her lap. This intimate snapshot of her early days sets the tone for an incredible journey that has transformed from a small craft into a thriving lifestyle brand.
From Jewelry to Lifestyle Brand
Since its inception in 2014, the Dainty Pear has blossomed beyond jewelry into a fully-fledged lifestyle brand. Clark’s ambition now includes her three cookbooks and, most recently, a charming brick-and-mortar store that opened its doors in Midway, Utah. She conveys her excitement and gratitude: “It’s just a lot of gratitude and excitement. We’ve been trying to do this for a long time, and the fact that it’s here is super exciting.” The unwavering support of her family, including her husband, was a pivotal factor in making this dream a reality.
Rooted in Community and Family
As a mother of five and the wife of an entrepreneur, Sarah Clark longed for a space to develop her business. The chance to purchase a historic location in Midway was serendipitous—a delightful opportunity that aligned with her aspirations. At a recent team meeting, Clark expressed her appreciation, realizing, "Oh my gosh, all of these people are here pushing my dream forward," underscoring her deep connection to the supportive network that surrounds her brand.
Evolution and Expansion
Clark’s journey took an organic route. While the brand started with jewelry, she soon ventured into writing and food-oriented projects, sharing cooking reels and recipes on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. One of her highly anticipated YouTube series, “Take me to Midway,” looks to delve into the rich history of her hometown, blending personal narrative with community storytelling.
In the Dainty Pear store, Clark aims to create more than just a shopping destination. “I wanted it to be a one-stop shop where customers can get inspiration from my cookbooks,” she states, indicating that not only will customers find ingredients for her recipes, but also a curated selection of tools from her new kitchen line.
A Culinary Embrace
The recipes featured on the Dainty Pear’s Instagram encapsulate a warm, inviting style reminiscent of classic home cooking—with dishes like honey peach thyme cheesecake and holiday spiced hot chocolate. The store itself is imbued with the spirit behind its name, inspired by Sarah’s daughter, Paris, who carries the affectionate nickname "Pear." The inclusion of the word "dainty" reflects both her jewelry’s style and the sweet, feminine touch she brings to all her creations.
Honoring Roots through Food and Community
Clark’s commitment to community ties into her culinary philosophy, where food serves as a bridge connecting people. “We’ve been in the Heber Valley for 14 years … I remember really liking the concept of feeling rooted in food, but it felt like more than that,” she observes. Dining is an act of connection—sharing stories, celebrating traditions, and honoring both family and heritage.
The Dainty Pear store is also a nod to nostalgic flavors and local heritage, featuring Swedish candies that honor Midway’s Swiss roots. Emphasizing the communal aspect of food, Clark expresses a desire to create a space where visitors can experience the essence of the "good old days."
An Inviting Atmosphere
Design plays an essential role in the Dainty Pear store, which boasts charming architectural elements such as arched doorways and raised ceilings, complemented by brick features and striking vintage chandeliers. Clark acquired the location from the Zenger family, a well-respected name in Midway, with the intention of creating a welcoming environment where customers can connect with the passion and craftsmanship behind her brand.
Looking Ahead: New Ventures and Experiences
Clark shows no signs of letting up; she has ambitious plans for the Dainty Pear, including the introduction of a tasting room. This intimate space will offer visitors a unique culinary experience, featuring a tasting menu filled with signature items available in her gourmet grocery section. As she excitedly points out, “We did everything we could to just build a shell around it,” blending the old with the new while using reclaimed material from the historic Fort Midway building.
As Sarah Clark prepares to release her third cookbook, titled “Grounded: Salads, Smoothies, and Other Fresh Fare,” she anticipates a summer opening for the tasting room. This ever-evolving journey marks a significant chapter in Clark’s life as she continues to share her passion for food, family, and community through the Dainty Pear.
A Grand Opening Celebration
The grand opening of the Dainty Pear included a delightful ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a milestone not just for Sarah but for the entire Midway community. With the shop open daily except Sundays, it invites locals and travelers alike to partake in the charm and culinary wonders that the Dainty Pear has to offer, rooted in its mother’s heart and her deep commitment to embracing connection through food.
In creating this space, Clark not only shares her passion but also our shared love for community, family, and the sweetness of the "dainty" aspects of life.
