After a beloved Provo coffee shop closed, former owners unite to create 'Brewed Awakenings', a new hub for coffee and community.
In the heart of Provo, Utah, a community of entrepreneurs is experiencing a resurgence following the unexpected closure of a beloved local shop earlier this year. In February, the shop, which had served as a hub for coffee enthusiasts and community gatherings, shuttered its doors, leaving a void in the area. However, the spirit of innovation and collaboration among its former owners has led to the birth of a new venture aimed at rekindling that sense of community. This new establishment, aptly named 'Brewed Awakenings,' aims to not only serve quality coffee but also to create a welcoming space for local residents to connect and collaborate.
The new business was launched by former co-owner of the closed shop, Sarah Thompson, along with her partners, Jake Martinez and Lila Green, both of whom previously owned their own cafes in the Provo area. Each of them brings a wealth of experience and passion for coffee culture, which they hope to fuse into a unique community experience at Brewed Awakenings. Thompson described their vision, saying, "We wanted to create a place where people feel at home, where they can come in, grab a cup of coffee, and connect with friends or even strangers. Our goal is to foster community spirit through great coffee and meaningful interactions."
The journey to establishing Brewed Awakenings was not without its challenges. After the closure in February, the trio spent months evaluating their options before deciding to band together and create something new. "It was a tough time for all of us, but we knew we couldn’t let our love for coffee and community die with that shop. We had to find a way to bring it back, and that’s how Brewed Awakenings was born," Martinez explained. The decision to combine their forces not only allowed them to pool resources but also to share the burden of startup costs and operational responsibilities.
Located in the same bustling downtown area where their previous shop operated, Brewed Awakenings occupies a spacious venue with an inviting atmosphere. The interior features comfortable seating arrangements, local art adorning the walls, and a warm color palette that aims to make the space feel cozy and welcoming. Green, who has a background in interior design, played a crucial role in creating an environment that encourages customers to linger and engage. "We wanted it to feel like a second home, where people can come to work, meet friends, or just unwind," she stated.
In addition to serving a diverse menu of coffee drinks, Brewed Awakenings has also committed to sourcing its beans from local roasters, ensuring that their offerings reflect the rich coffee culture of Utah. They have partnered with several local farms to provide fresh pastries and snacks, supporting the region's economy while also ensuring quality. This commitment to local sourcing is part of their broader mission to create a sustainable and community-focused business model.
As they embark on this new chapter, the team at Brewed Awakenings is also keen on hosting a variety of community events. They plan to offer workshops on coffee brewing techniques, art classes featuring local artists, and live music nights showcasing local talent. "We want this place to be a hub for creativity and connection," Thompson added. The hope is that these events will not only draw in coffee lovers but also provide a platform for local artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their work.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive since their soft opening last month. Initial customers have expressed excitement about the new venture and its offerings. Local resident Emily Johnson, who frequented the previous shop, shared her enthusiasm: "It feels like a breath of fresh air. I loved the old place, but this is something special. The vibe is amazing, and I can't wait to see how they grow and what events they will host."
Looking forward, the owners are hopeful that their new venture will thrive in Provo’s vibrant community. They recognize that the landscape of local businesses is ever-changing, and they are committed to adapting and evolving with it. "We’re excited to see where this journey takes us. We want to be more than just a coffee shop; we want to be a community staple and a place where memories are made," Martinez concluded.
As Brewed Awakenings settles into its new role within the Provo community, it stands as a testament to resilience and collaboration in the face of adversity. With an unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, the new coffee shop is poised to become a beloved gathering spot for years to come.