The Mark of the Potter, nestled in the heart of northern Habersham County, has long been a cherished haven for pottery enthusiasts and a draw for tourists seeking a taste of history. Under the ownership of Chad and Maria Peck, this iconic establishment has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from a pottery haven to a rustic retreat in the scenic Batesville community – a front-row seat to the enchanting falls of the Soque River.
The Peck family, originally from Atlanta, inherited the property in 2018 when his mother and stepfather passed away. A former grist mill turned art studio, the facility includes an apartment above the showroom – a hidden gem that the Pecks envisioned sharing with others.
Prior to any renovations, Peck states, “The original layout was kind of ‘wonky ‘ and only had a wood stove for heat and two window air conditioners to cool for the summer.” He explained that in the winter, some areas of the apartment remained cold, and in the summer remained hot.
Last winter, the couple devised a plan to convert the apartment into an Airbnb, bringing modern comforts, tasteful decor, and unrivaled views of the Soque Falls. The newly renovated space boasts three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private entrance, internet access, and a deck, providing guests with an escape into tranquility.
With a self-imposed deadline of October 1, aligning with the vibrant colors of fall, the Pecks embarked on a 10-month journey of transformation. Initially working on weekends, the project gained momentum, with Chad dedicating extended periods, working tirelessly to meet their ambitious goal. Taking a two-week hiatus from his contracting business in September, Chad immersed himself in the project, ensuring its completion by October 2.
Chad humbly attributes the success of the venture to his wife Maria, acknowledging her as the visionary behind the Airbnb concept while he contributed the labor as a seasoned contractor.
The response was resounding—a testament to the allure of their creation. The Airbnb was booked for three weekends in October, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Mark of the Potter.
He explained that they have plans going forward with the property across the street that the Pecks also own. According to him, he first has to see if his plan is allowable and then see what that cost may be once designed.
Adding to the recognition, Atlanta Fox 5’s feature reporter Paul Milliken and cameraman Tim Whaley visited the facility on Tuesday morning. Their feature showcased Mark of the Potter not just as a pottery haven but also as a holiday shopping destination, emphasizing the charm of the newly unveiled Airbnb apartment. The festive spirit was amplified with a visit from Santa Claus.
Mark of the Potter invites the community to their 5th annual “Photos with Santa Claus” event. Professional photographer Kim Martin will provide four high-resolution photographs for each session. The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 26, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The sessions, priced at $50.00 each, promise a magical experience.
Attendees can revel in the warmth of a bonfire, partake of refreshments, and indulge in s’mores, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of the Batesville community’s rustic charm.
