Lady Smith Manor’s Annual Summer Market

Lady Smith Manor’s Annual Summer Market takes place in the quaint village of Dorchester, New Brunswick on the grounds of an1840 Georgian manor that was purchased by Miriam Andrews and her husband Stephen Trites in 2019. This historic property was once the residence of Sir Albert James Smith, former Premier of New Brunswick. I was honored to invited to the very first Victorian-themed market held here in 2021 and I haven’t missed a market since. Miriam and Stephen’s goal for the very first Lady Smith Manor (LSM) Summer Market was to welcome and build community while giving the public a glimpse of their restoration project-in-progress - and to create a buzz. And that they did!

Step Back in Time at Lady Smith Manor

Guests are invited each summer to step back in time and stroll through an old-fashioned summer market. Miriam selects a new theme each year. It all began with A Village Vintage Fair, then A Country Market, and A Secret Garden and in 2024 it was yet another unforgettable experience, this time inspired by the book Around The World in 80 Days. It was complete with a fun passport challenge, enter costume competition, and even a vintage-looking hot air balloon photo display. The Summer Market is guaranteed year-after-year to be a nostalgic celebration of country living from days gone by. Lady Smith Manor invites you to spend time together, browse the vintage stalls, stroll through the garden, enjoy an ice cream, sit a while under their big oak trees, sip a cool drink in The Thirsty Whippet’s beer garden, and so much more!

Lady Smith Manor is a Wedding and Special Event Venue

My impression after my first Lady Smith Manor experience, was that if LSM’s Summer Market was any indication of what we could expect from this wedding and event venue, we were all in for a treat. Miriam and Stephen have continued to amaze me year after year as they continue to host special local community events, as well as weddings. A British-style pub called, The Thirsty Whippet just opened in the spring of 2024 (which is all very fitting since Miriam is originally from the UK) and it is a huge hit with locals and visitors alike. A Grand Opening was celebrated on June 21-23, 2024 with a performance by fellow Brit, James Mullinger as the headliner on Saturday night. Plan to pop by when visiting the Summer Market for a cold drink out in the charming beer garden.

Lady Smith Manor is Enchanting

The LSM property is absolutely enchanting. Once you enter the grounds, you feel transported in time. It is surrounded by beautiful mature trees nestled in the heart of a quiet, sleepy, rural, country setting. As you walk up the driveway, you are immediately drawn into a dreamscape of LSM’s former grandeur and mystique, and that’s just how Miriam & Stephen want you to feel. It’s all in the grand plan.

Local Artisans and Vendors

Miriam carefully orchestrates every single detail, including curating an impressive lineup of talented local artisans and vendors. You can expect over 20 vintage-inspired booths each year. Miriam incorporates many of the LSM’s 19th & 20th Century antique furnishings into each display and each year Miriam plans extra special surprises. She divulges a few in posts leading up to the event but she also keeps many under wraps until opening day.

Lady Smith Manor Summer Markets Offer Something For Everyone

Guests are welcome to shop the curiosities, and pretty vintage clothes & treasures, as well as homewares & accessories. There is always plethora of offerings from handmade jewelry, candles and décor, artwork, farm-fresh produce, embroidery & fibre art, leather craft, pottery, natural bath and body products, beautiful flowers, as well as delicious summer treats & drinks. As they say, there is something for everyone. Pearl the Alpaca from nearby Llamazing Adventures was there for photos with guests the first year. Another year, ponies from Beloved Miniature Horses were available for kiddie rides. There is always something new and exciting to discover at LSM Summer Markets. That’s half the fun seeing what Miriam comes up with.

Lady Smith

Miriam (or “Lady Smith” as the locals like to call her), is always milling around - look for her at the LSM ice cream bar or out & about welcoming guests. Stephen is never far away either, you might find him in the pub bartending, or helping out vendors, and always greeting guests, too.

Lady Smith Manor Diaries

Believe it or not, Miriam also finds time in the midst of renovating this 25-room, 8000 square-foot manor, to record a vlog diary of weekly progress. She often shares techniques, or gives helpful tips. Miriam also manages a website with an online shop of branded clothing, a special blend coffee and lots of LSM swag. For more information on how to book your event or to discover what is up and coming at Lady Smith Manor, visit their website, connect with LSM on Facebook, and/or follow Lady Smith Manor Diaries on YouTube.

Canada’s Historic Place

Lady Smith Manor is recognized as one of Canada's Historic Places and with the TLC that Miriam & Stephen are giving this grand lady, she will surely become a top event venue destination, as well. LSM’s mission is to offer unique experiences, unexpected moments, inspired spaces, and unforgettable events and LSM delivers all of that, and then some. Just take a peek at the festive event I also attended LSM’s Christmas Market. Stay tuned as Miriam & Steven have many, many more exciting events coming your way soon.

Lady Smith Manor is a Special Events Venue

Miriam and Stephen reach for the stars and their special events keep getting bigger and better. Learn more about The Thirsty Whippet Pub, Comedy Nights, Whiskey Tours, Vintage Picnics, Afternoon Teas, Live Music events, Murder Mystery Nights, a Masquerade Ball, a Downton Abbey New Year’s Eve Ball, and LSM Markets by clicking on the LSM logo at the end of this article. Hope to see you at the Manor!

The Manor Keys

New in 2024, is The Manor Keys Program. Unlock exclusive access, experiences, and rare opportunities that bring you closer to the heart of LSM. As a Manor Key holder you get discounts, rewards, and first access to all LSM event tickets. You will also have an opportunity to book a stay at the Manor and I can assure everyone that this is a privilege that in itself is a wonderful reason to become a manor key holder. I have had the unique honour of staying in all three of their gorgeous suites including the Parisian Suite, the Sandpiper Suite, and the Woodland Suite. They are all divine.

Book Lady Smith Manor for your Special Event

LSM offers bookings for photo shoots, creative workshops, meeting spaces, and corporate events. An Exclusively Yours Weekend Wedding Package is available, too. It includes LSM accommodations, use of the complete manor including The Thirsty Whippet Pub, wedding planner-assisted support, personalized decor design & setup, rental of all furniture, tableware, and much more. LSM also offers an Elopement-Style Wedding Package option. This 1840’s Georgian Manor is the perfect backdrop for your happy occasion or special event. Know that you are in excellent hands with the impeccable organizing and styling that LSM offers here. Whether you book for a personal function or attend one of LSM’s annual events, you will be glad you did. Miriam and Stephen have created an event venue that this province has never seen the likes of before. It is a magical place and I hope everyone gets a chance to discover it.

The Thirsty Whippet Pub

Step into the world of The Thirsty Whippet Pub and experience something truly unique. Enjoy this quirky English style Pub nestled amongst the majestic trees of the New Brunswick countryside and surrounded by the old style grandeur and period character and charm of Lady Smith Manor.

Christmas at the Manor

Welcome to Christmas at the Manor - an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas Market at Lady Smith Manor. Shop for unique holiday gifts and stocking stuffers as well as delectable sweets and treats all made by local makers and creators. Discover vintage-inspired vendors and local artisan booths, and festive family-fun activities on the grounds of an 1840 Georgian Manor nestled in the village of Dorchester, New Brunswick. Don’t miss this festive event that happens each year in November.

This post was sponsored by Lady Smith Manor; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn & Threads. Subscribe to be the first to receive my latest articles. Share articles you love with your social media community so they, too, will discover, There’s No Place Like Home!