#293

If I can be vulnerable for a minute or two—I love running a business. It might be small, but it’s small and mighty. Fun fact: I hated coffee for most of my life and was strictly a tea girl. I found my way to coffee through a lot of pain, disappointment, and growth. Before Caffeine Avenue, I would have called myself a failure.

For a long time, I dreamed of breaking into the film industry, but truthfully, I didn’t know anyone who could help me, and without connections, it’s extremely difficult. But God is good. I eventually landed a position that could have been my break into the film industry. I was on the Universal lot, working with big-time people—even after being told I was “too old” at 27. I was finally with the right people, and I prayed that my personality would shine through instead of my nerves. I asked all the right questions, talked to major producers, and let me tell you—I didn’t want their jobs.

It was a moment of realization: God had put me exactly where I wanted to be, with the right people, and if I played my cards right, I could move on to another project immediately after. If I’m not mistaken, it was the Saved by the Bell revival show. But I didn’t want it. I even missed my waitressing and substitute jobs. It was a hard but reflective moment. I thought: What do I do now? After so many years working toward this dream, everything revolved around it.

Looking back, I realize I wanted to be a film director—but honestly, I might have been crazy. I couldn’t even visualize a film in my head, let alone choose a logo. Heartbroken, I needed a new dream because I’ve always been ambitious and goal-oriented. At the time, I was getting my master’s degree in English to teach at universities while interning at film production companies, hoping to land a job. That part worked—I did get a job—but I realized I didn’t want it anymore.

So I began searching for a new dream. Initially, I thought about opening a tea shop. I went to Pasadena, which has an abundance of tea shops, and explored my options. I met with a tea wholesaler, but I wasn’t sure if tea was the right path. Then I thought maybe coffee? I started talking to coffee shop owners. Most were negative, until I met Joanna at The Palm, who let me shadow her for a whole summer. She gave me some of the best advice I still live by.

There were moments where I wasn’t sure if I wanted this, where I hit dead ends, and didn’t know what to do next. I tried this, tried that, and saw where it led me. One lesson from my film industry attempts carried over: don’t be afraid to talk to strangers. I showed up, made calls, and tried to connect respectfully with the coffee community. I knew nothing—machines, grinders, plumbing, Health I’m Department rules, pitcher rinsers—none of it. This was all before ChatGPT! Sometimes it felt stagnant, and I considered walking away to see if I still wanted it in a month or two. But the dream kept haunting me—I even thought about naming my coffee cart “Haunting Cart” because I couldn’t get it out of my mind.

Finishing my second degree and working multiple jobs, I finally took the first big step: I met Leo at And I You Coffee, who built my cart. That was my first real investment toward this dream. I couldn’t let the cart collect dust. Then came the Health Department compliance—a mission in itself—equipment, plumbing, figuring out the espresso machine, getting into a farmers market, sourcing product, tasting coffee, preparing espresso and cold brew, frothing milk, creating a menu, and finally, opening day.

I was shocked. People were buying coffee. I was paranoid—what if they didn’t like it? I constantly asked for feedback. And now, almost two years later, y’all have been coming back since day one. I want you to know I had no coffee experience. Many told me to get hired as a barista, but I couldn’t because of limited hours and financial constraints. My diverse work experience and discipline helped me survive. I am deeply grateful to the coffee community for their guidance, to the people who encouraged me, and even to the film industry for rejecting me. Without that, I would’ve never found Caffeine Avenue—a place born from a broken heart.

Running Caffeine Avenue is hard work, especially while juggling other jobs to support myself. Every penny you spend goes back into the business; every tip pays for things like the vendor fee. I work seven days a week. Sundays are the hardest because of setup, weather, and standing all day, but they are also my favorite days. I love turning on the espresso machine, serving coffee, and seeing you. Spending an entire day outside, surrounded by amazing vendors and customers, is something I cherish deeply.

Caffeine Avenue has healed me in ways I never thought possible. You might think I’m dramatic, but think of something you’ve wanted desperately that didn’t happen—or wasn’t what you expected. Thank you for allowing me to serve you coffee and for helping me heal. I love saying that I built this with my own hands. It’s the hardest and the best thing I’ve ever done. I am scared everyday that it will be over because that’s how much I love it. 

Thank you, everyone, and I apologize for over-sharing.