About
The Market
The Transition
and History
Historic Toxaway Market has long been part of the Lake Toxaway community. In 2024, ownership transitioned from the Pickel Family to Lauren and Chris Wiener, continuing a relationship that had already been in place for years.
Before taking over the Market, Lauren and Chris were longtime vendors, supplying Mangalitsa pork and farm-fresh eggs through their farm, Freedom Farms. What started as a working relationship became an opportunity to carry the Market forward.
Legacy
What Hasn't Changed
The goal is simple. Keep what works. Do it well.
Historic Toxaway Market continues to offer a curated mix of wine, meats, cheeses, produce, prepared foods, and specialty goods. The focus remains on quality, sourcing with intention, and carrying products that are worth bringing home.
Local producers are still a priority, alongside thoughtfully selected goods from beyond the region.
Nothing here is built around volume. The Market is shaped by what people actually enjoy eating, drinking, and sharing. That means fewer options, better choices, and a mix that changes as new products come in.
Meet The Owners
Proprietor
Lauren Wiener
Lauren Wiener leads the day-to-day experience at the Market.
Her background includes years working in hospitality, patient care, and hands-on food production through Freedom Farms. Her approach is practical and people-focused, shaped by a wide range of experiences both locally and abroad.
She also holds certification through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), bringing a trained perspective to the wine selection without overcomplicating the experience.
Operations
Chris Wiener
Chris Wiener manages the operational side of the business.
His background spans military service, technology, and international work across the US, UK, and the Middle East. He now applies that experience behind the scenes, supporting the systems that keep the Market running.
The Future
Moving Forward
The foundation built by the Pickel Family remains part of the Market today.
This next chapter is about continuing that work, staying connected to the community, and building something that holds up over time.