You know what I really like? Coffee and coffee shops. I like sitting in coffee shops and people watching. I like hearing tidbits of conversations that I have no context for (I’m nosy that way). And, I like taking that first sip of my oatmilk latte just to mess up that pretty little milk-foam flower. Even better, I like coffee shops in Langley.
The truth is, coffee shops are everywhere. And sometimes, it’s hard for me to pick the one I’m going to spend the day working at. No, I don’t spend all my days working in coffee shops. Just imagine how astronomical the caffeine rush would be! There are plenty of coffee shops in Langley with good coffee; some even have amazing snacks and baked goods.
One of those places is Cozy Bean Bakery. It’s tucked away in the heart of Langley City on the one-way, beside the Local Space.
I remember the first time I saw this place, and I completely walked passed it. No really, I’m not going to lie, it was just another coffee shop. I’d go inside, check out the menu and the food display, only to realize that the gluten-free girlie I am had no snack options. Sometimes I’d grab a coffee, other times, I’d just walk out in search of a 2-in-1 option.
But that was in the early days, when Antonella was just starting. Since then, this little shop has come a LONG WAY and I’m totally here for it.
The coffee shop experience
Cozy Bean Bakery has become my go-to when I’m on the one-way. (In case you’re wondering, the one-way is very much what its name describes; a one-way stretch of road in Langley). Their coffee is good, but it’s the treats that will keep you coming back.
However, talking about a coffee shop with (impeccable) baked goods, sandwiches, and soups isn’t riveting. But a story about a coffee shop opening its space for events, and engaging the local community, changes the conversation.
First, I wanted to talk about how Antonella is the resident baker at this cozy little establishment. And wow – if you haven’t tried her treats, you are missing out. They range from classic to fun, but no matter what you get, they are something else! As a side note, my personal experience with the baked goods is limited (gluten free, remember?. Still, I bring friends treats, watch intently as they eat, then ask for all the feedback because they all look so good!
Goodies aside, one of the things that stands out to me about The Cozy Bean is their events. The first one that caught my eye was back in November. It was called “Taste of the Season”. This was an after-hours event for ticket holders who wanted to take a sneak peek at the test kitchen’s holiday treats.
Inviting people to come and be part a teaser event offers a layer of fun and exclusivity. How cool is it that you get to try something before everyone else, you can give your feedback directly to the baker and the owner! It adds an extra layer of community to the business that I really appreciate.
Where does this lead me?
But there is something that has had me thinking about how businesses grow and pivot and adapt. See, I was at The Cozy Bean the other week saw a promo for the spring Taste of the Season. I glanced around and saw the cafe was busy (only a few tables vacant!). While I was impressed with how busy it was, I know that’s not always the case. It really had me thinking a lot about what’s going on with businesses these days.
The coffee shop evolution
Like I said, it’s tough these days for every small business. Whether you’re a service-based business like me, or you’re running a brick-and-mortar shop, it’s hard. The economy is chaotic, everything costs way too much, and people are being conservative with their spending.
Which means that to really capture that attention, businesses need to get creative on how they attract their customers. And The Cozy Bean is doing just that. Opening their space to events like evening with a chef, workshops, fundraisers, and hosting exclusive gatherings is creating a shift in the way that people can engage with businesses.
Events are a great way to get people interested. That level of engagement adds a level of exclusivity and excitement for your clientele, it builds better connections. Which goes a long way to making you a good community partner, and a business that wants to include their customers more in their day to day.
All the events The Cozy Bean hosts offer that made-just-for-you treats. And when you think of the time spent making these treats, the people involved, thyou can see the dedication and love for the craft.
What do I mean by that?
The Cozy Bean, like many small businesses, isn’t a big corporate operation. There is no big commercial kitchen with a big baking staff. Nope, they’re a small team. Antonella does a lot.
For anyone who has done events as a small business (or any business), you KNOW they take time and planning. Which is why recognizing the dedication small business owners have is is important. You might think they’re just doing a job, but it’s more than that. It’s a passion and a lifesytle. It’s building a community that shares in your vision and joy.
Got an idea for a business to check out?
I’m always on the lookout for businesses doing cool things. If you’ve got an idea for a business to check out, send me a message!
