Author: Erik Wesner

Erik Wesner is the creator of amishamerica.com, and author of Success Made Simple: An Inside Look At Why Amish Businesses Thrive. Erik began visiting Amish communities in 2004 – eventually meeting thousands of Amish families while selling books.

He began writing about the Amish on this website in 2006, and is often cited in national media, including USA Today, The New York Times, and others on a wide range of Amish topics. A native of North Carolina, Erik has visited dozens of Amish communities across the country, and loves spending time with Amish friends and discovering new Amish places.

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Inside A “Primitive” Amish Home (14 Photos)

Inside A “Primitive” Amish Home (14 Photos)

This home is a “cousin” of the “austere” Amish home that we viewed back in December. It’s in the same Michigan community – in fact, on the very same road. Perhaps that means that there is a general out-migration happening here in this settlement. Or, perhaps more likely, given their closeness, these two families are related – and they are simply moving out together. This…

10 Amish-Inspired Valentine’s Decor Ideas

10 Amish-Inspired Valentine’s Decor Ideas

Like other Americans, Amish couples and schoolchildren celebrate Valentine’s Day every February 14 (note: observance can vary in different Amish communities). Exchanging candy and cards, and enjoying Valentine’s-themed desserts and meals are among the ways Amish enjoy the day. To add a touch of Valentine’s beauty to your home this year, take some inspiration from these 10 Amish-inspired Valentine’s decor ideas. These simple yet charming…

10 Handcrafted Amish Furniture Pieces That Will Last A Lifetime

10 Handcrafted Amish Furniture Pieces That Will Last A Lifetime

The Amish have a longstanding reputation as good furniture makers – and for good reason. The furniture pieces they craft in their typically small home workshops tend to stand the test of time. Attention to detail, materials, an eye for beauty all contribute to durable, beautiful pieces. The marketing term often used in the industry is “heirloom” – and it tends to fit what the…

Rebekah Byler Murder Case: PA Attorney General Takes Over; Trial Coming In March

Rebekah Byler Murder Case: PA Attorney General Takes Over; Trial Coming In March

It’s been awhile since we’ve had news on the Rebekah Byler homicide case. We last got an update in early October, when the trial of the accused, Shawn C. Cranston of Corry, PA, was moved for the second time. At that time a continuance was granted to the defense, as more time was needed to process the “large amounts” of evidence. Now, word that a…

10 Delicious Amish Valentine’s Day Desserts

10 Delicious Amish Valentine’s Day Desserts

If you’re wondering if the Amish celebrate Valentine’s Day, the answer is YES. Amish Valentine’s Day traditions include schoolchildren exchanging Valentine’s cards and themed lunches, and Amish couples gathering for special Valentine’s Dinners where ALL the food is a shade of pink or red (not just dessert). For something sweet this Valentine’s Day, try one of these delicious & eye-pleasing Valentine’s-themed desserts. ~ Erik Red…

10 Cozy Amish-Inspired Bedroom Designs

10 Cozy Amish-Inspired Bedroom Designs

Just like the Amish themselves are not all the same – the styles of Amish homes can really vary as well. Some are extremely plain and spartan. Others are filled with warm accents and cozy furnishings. From patchwork quilts to Shaker-style furniture to wooden flooring and large windows, these home designs capture select elements of Amish style, incorporating them into modern settings. Find some inspiration…

Amish Praised For Battling Devastating Fire

Amish Praised For Battling Devastating Fire

Last week, a “historic fire” left a “massive trail of damage” in the upstate New York village of Ovid (Seneca County). These photos from a variety of sources show the size of the blaze and extent of the damage. When I saw the name Ovid, I immediately recognized it as the location of a long-standing Amish settlement. Amish people have lived in this area of…

10 Hearty Amish-Style Winter Soups

10 Hearty Amish-Style Winter Soups

Though life slows down a bit as the seasons turn cold, the Amish are active in winter time – whether it’s doing farm chores, attending an auction or wedding, or getting in some outdoor recreation. In this hearty soup collection you’ll find classics like Seven Bean Soup and Chicken Noodle, along with more modern interpretations like Sausage and Kale. ~Erik Warm up with these 10…

10 Beautiful Amish-Style Tables For Your Kitchen

10 Beautiful Amish-Style Tables For Your Kitchen

Over the years I’ve enjoyed visiting Amish furniture workshops all across America. You’d be surprised at some of the beautiful pieces that come out of these often humble-looking family workshops. Back when I was first discovering Amish furniture…I was amazed to learn of the many different styles Amish furniture builders can produce. They do create tables in classic styles – but not just the rustic,…

10 Iconic Amish Recipes to Add to Your Meal Plan

10 Iconic Amish Recipes to Add to Your Meal Plan

When I’m in Amish Country, I am a big fan of the FOOD. This list is a great starter covering the best-known, favorite Amish recipes – the ones that you’ll see touted on restaurant menus and on the covers of recipe books. Cycle these into your meal routine to give yourself a regular “taste of Amish Country” even when you’re back home. ~Erik From hearty…