A beloved café's bittersweet farewell: The Coffee Incident's story
The Coffee Incident, a cherished local café in Glen Innes, is up for sale, marking a significant turning point in its history. But this isn't a typical business transaction; it's a heartwarming tale of new beginnings and the pursuit of dreams. Owner Holly Coldham is preparing for the arrival of her first child, a baby boy, and this life-changing event has prompted her to put the café on the market.
The Emotional Decision: Holly's choice to sell is a mix of emotions. She reveals, "Owning a café was my lifelong dream, and it's been central to my identity. But starting a family has always been my priority." This decision, though difficult, is a testament to her dedication to both her personal and professional aspirations.
A Journey of Growth: Holly's story with The Coffee Incident began when she bought the business from her former boss, Chris Glennan. Working for Chris, she gained valuable experience, but it was her time in Toowoomba that ignited her entrepreneurial spirit. "I realized I wanted to bring something unique to Glen Innes," she recalls. And so, she returned home, purchased the café, and embarked on a journey of business ownership.
A Bold Step Forward: The café, initially located on Grey Street, offered a simple yet delightful menu. But Holly's vision extended beyond the menu. Inspired by her time in Toowoomba, she introduced a display cabinet, showcasing an array of sweets and savories. This innovation was a game-changer, attracting customers and setting the stage for expansion.
Growing Pains and Success: As the café's popularity grew, Holly and her team relocated to a larger space on the same street. This move allowed them to offer an all-day breakfast menu, expand their display, and create a more spacious dining area. Holly reflects, "It was a much-needed change, giving us room to experiment and our customers a better experience."
The Secret Ingredient: When asked about the café's success, Holly attributes it to her incredible team. "Our atmosphere is unique because of the people. We're like a family, and that joy is felt by our customers." This sense of community and camaraderie is what sets The Coffee Incident apart.
The Reality of Business Ownership: Running a café wasn't without challenges. Holly admits, "I was naive about the difficulties of business ownership." Taking over at 24, she had to quickly learn every aspect of the café and the business side, a steep learning curve that shaped her leadership style.
Mentorship and Collaboration: Holly's experiences have made her passionate about mentoring others. "I love supporting my team's side hustles and collaborating with them. It's become a favorite part of my job." This collaborative spirit is evident in the café's success.
A New Chapter: As Holly prepares for motherhood, she hopes the next owner will embrace the café's potential. "The venue has so much to offer, from night events to retail possibilities." The future of The Coffee Incident is filled with exciting possibilities.
Leaving a Legacy: When asked what she'll miss, Holly's answer is immediate: "My team. They're incredible, and their energy is unmatched." The café's atmosphere, created by this tight-knit group, is what makes it so special.
A Community's Support: The Coffee Incident's success is also a testament to the community's support. Holly reflects, "Our community embraces young entrepreneurs, and their support has been overwhelming." This local backing has played a significant role in the café's journey.
The Next Chapter: As Holly and her partner, Tom, await their baby boy, the café's sale is an opportunity for someone new to continue its legacy. The sale, managed by Country Wide Property Glen Innes, is an exciting prospect for a passionate hospitality enthusiast.
Controversy and Reflection: But here's where it gets controversial—is it ever truly possible to balance business ownership and personal dreams seamlessly? Holly's story raises questions about the sacrifices and rewards of entrepreneurship. As she steps away from the café, will the new owner be able to maintain the unique atmosphere she's cultivated?
What do you think? Is Holly's decision to sell the café a bittersweet sacrifice or a necessary step towards her personal goals? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the complexities of pursuing dreams while managing a thriving business.
