From Classroom to Coffee Shop: The Journey of Whiskey Morning Coffee
In a heartwarming tale of innovation and entrepreneurship, Whiskey Morning Coffee, a vendor at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, serves as a shining example of how dreams can evolve from classroom projects into successful businesses. Founded by Evan Sledge alongside high-school friends TJ Ryan and Carson Becker, this venture began in a Texas Christian University (TCU) classroom back in 2018, where a simple, class-mandated pitch formed the foundation for their future coffee brand.
The Unique Aging Process Sets Them Apart
At the core of Whiskey Morning Coffee's uniqueness is its innovative aging process. The company sources green coffee beans aged in bourbon and whiskey barrels, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors. Even though any remaining alcohol evaporates during roasting, the distinct essence of whiskey remains, creating a coffee experience like no other. Becker emphasizes, “When it says bourbon coffee, it tastes like bourbon coffee.” This daring combination has encouraged adventurous consumers to try flavors from smoked rum to even dill pickle. Each brew has emerged from a blend of passion, experimentation, and friendship.
A Natural Fit: Coffees and Stock Shows
Whiskey Morning Coffee’s presence at events like the Fort Worth Stock Show reflects the founders' own lifestyles. Ryan remarks that stock shows feel like “a natural fit” for them, enhancing their engagement with a community that shares their love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. It’s no easy task; from selling only a handful of online orders a day to averaging 450 weekly, the company has witnessed significant growth thanks to local events.
How Community Engagement Boosted Growth
Through grassroots marketing and community events, the coffee business saw substantial local support, allowing them to showcase their products alongside other small local vendors. “Stock shows allow us to connect directly with thousands of potential customers,” Sledge shares, highlighting their limited marketing budget and their reliance on direct customer interaction at these events. This approach not only showcased their brand but also fostered strong community ties.
Future Directions: More Than Just Coffee
As Whiskey Morning Coffee establishes its foothold in the North Texas market, the founders are not merely resting on their current success. They are exploring new flavors and expanding their online presence, aiming to attract even more customers both locally and beyond. This commitment to innovation reflects the founders' belief that a business must adapt continually to thrive in today's fast-paced market.
The emergence of Whiskey Morning Coffee serves as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit nurtured at TCU and highlights the transformative potential of local initiatives. As the Fort Worth community continues to support these homegrown businesses, the hope is that more students will be inspired to turn their classroom ideas into reality, fostering a culture of innovation that benefits all.
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