The beginning of coffee

I still remember the smell of espresso and steamed milk that greeted me on my very first day behind the counter at Starbucks. I was 17 — wide-eyed, nervous, and completely unaware that this job would ignite a lifelong love affair with coffee.

Back then, I thought I was just learning how to make lattes and caramel macchiatos. But every shift taught me so much more — how a simple cup of coffee can spark conversations, build community, and turn strangers into regulars. I learned the art of dialing in espresso shots, the joy of crafting drinks exactly the way someone loves them, and the magic that happens when you hand someone a warm cup and watch their whole day get a little brighter.

Over the years, that spark only grew stronger. Coffee became more than a beverage to me — it became a passion, a ritual, a creative outlet, and eventually, a dream. And now, after years of dreaming and planning, I’m turning that passion into reality by aspiring for my own café.

This new chapter isn’t just about serving great coffee (though trust me, we’ll do plenty of that). It’s about creating a space where people feel welcome, cozy, and inspired — the same way I felt at 17 when I first stepped behind that counter. It’s about building a place where stories are shared, friendships are brewed, and every cup is made with intention.