Q. When did you decide to own a cafe?
First season of MasterChef in 2009 . It was the year I decided to return to University to complete my studies. I said to myself ‘one day’ .
Q. How do you go from studying to cafe owner?
After graduating from University and working, I quickly progressed into a Management role (fate paved a path for me after some health and personal set backs). Although I had a steady and successful career , I did not feel accomplished. I took a break for 2 months, went overseas to spend time with my elder sister and it was her pep talk that told me to follow my dreams. I returned with a resignation letter in my hand, a new vision and aspiration.
Q. Why a cafe and not a restaurant, or anything else?
I personally feel that cafes have a more unique ‘homely’ experience to them with a relaxed environment that is catered and comfortable for everyone (including Dogs – and I love dogs) ! I love the culture and concept of ‘brunch’ and so if you’re passionate about something, you follow that path. I also knew I would always actively be working within my own cafe and so I wanted to establish a balanced life where I could be home each evening with my loved ones.
Q. What have you learned about being in business for yourself?
That your employees and customers are your most valuable assets.
Q. What have you learned about owning your own brand?
It takes time. And it’s a process that requires teamwork – from your staff, to your graphic designer, to your marketing guru. It’s trial and error – from creating a brand name to creating the menu. But it’s a process that you must trust and execute only when each box has been ticked and you are 100% satisfied with all the results.
Q. What is unique about your location?
Our brand is exclusively located within Home Consortium Rouse Hill (Home Co.) – hence our name ‘Coffee at Co.’ Home Co are all about creating a new concept in value and convenience-based shopping in regional and outer-metro areas across the country.
Q. Talk about the qualities you look for in your staff?
I asked my last employer why he hired me. I was still considered a ‘junior’ so I could not understand why I was given this opportunity. He said to me ‘you can teach your staff the skill you require from them but you cannot teach them their attitude’. This has been instilled in me since and is one of the major things I look for when hiring my potential staff. Attitude is everything ! Positivity, tenacity, resilience, punctuality, honesty, work ethic – it’s all build in one’s attitude.
Q. What is unique about the people that you meet and what makes some stand out from others?
Everyone has a story to tell. I have no idea what someone is going through in life and they wouldn’t know the same about me. So it’s the simple things. All it takes is a warm smile and basic manners. It can turn a good day into a great day !
Q. What do you like most about your cafe?
Knowing that each and every coffee, shake, meal has been prepared with a lot love, care and pride . I also enjoy being at the cafe because of the environment we’ve created. Seeing our regular customers and having a chat is always a highlight.
Q. Describe what a good day looks like to you.
When my other half pops in unannounced – it makes my day. Feeling that warmth from your loved one is always special.
Q. What is your favourite on the menu?
Well . I have a few ! So how about I list my top 5 ?! And in no particular order !
- Fluffy protein pancakes (with ice cream off course !)
- Truffle mushroom
- Avocado smash
- Pulled pork burger
- Royal rose megashake (this one is close to the heart)
Q. What are the kids favourite items on the menu
The kids LOVE our Nutella pancakes & chocolate milkshake ! And the best thing is that it’s available for all the ‘big’ kids too ! We’re all still kids at heart after all right !?
Q. What are the gym junkie favourites on the menu?
Unique to our cafe is the Snickers and Mars protein shake which is a massive favorite (tastes just like the chocolate without the extra calories)!