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Dean ‘84 and Jan ‘85 (Steffy) Mast Stitch Together the Quilting Community
Creativity is at the core of the handcrafted products available at the Old Country Store in Intercourse, PA. The owners of the Old Country Store, Dean ‘84 and Jan ‘85 Mast credit their high quality local handicrafts for the store’s accolades, being named “#1 Shopping Destination in Lancaster County” by TripAdvisor and “One of the Top Ten Quilt Shops in the
U.S.A.” by Better Homes & Gardens’ Quilt Sampler.
They partner with over 100 Amish and Mennonite local craftspersons who contribute to the store, creating quilts, folk art and Scherenschnitte (traditional paper cuttings). Jan says about their partners that, “It’s our distinct advantage to deal directly with the maker, and we routinely speak into the creative process regarding color trends, aesthetic appeal, and overall customer interest.” The Old Country Store also inspires upcoming artisans, holding regular classes and annual sewing competitions.
During their time at LM, Dean and Jan found opportunities to express themselves, deepen their faith and develop the leadership skills they required later in their lives. On October 3rd, along with Glen Lapp ‘87 (who was featured in the previous issue), Dean and Jan were honored as Lancaster Mennonite 2019 Alumni of the Year, for their contributions through service to their community, family and profession. Their families have deep ties to Lancaster Mennonite, with multiple generations attending the school.
The Masts’ hold their faith in high regard, and attribute their success in business on their faith-based principles. Above all, they consider investing in relationships the highest priority; whatever accomplishments one might achieve, relationships ultimately prove more significant.
