Moving Forward
Big Changes, New Beginnings: A Coffee Journey Update
By Kelby
I’m sitting here with a cup of coffee—okay, it’s a little over-roasted (can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs, right?)—and reflecting on the wild ride this past year has been.
We officially took ownership of YellowBand Coffee last November. In some ways, it feels like we’re just getting started. But the calendar tells me it’s already been nine months. Time has a funny way of moving fast when you’re juggling family life, business, and big dreams. It’s like I blinked and now someone else is filling me in on what I missed!
Where We Are Now
We just signed a lease on a small space (cue happy dance!) and we’re in the process of securing our manufacturing license. This will allow us to ship our coffee anywhere in the U.S. and begin selling wholesale. It’s an exciting step, but also a little nerve-wracking—especially when you’re watching expenses pile up before revenue really starts flowing. But that’s part of the adventure of owning a business, right?
Real Talk: Can We Do This?
Honestly, the questions keep coming:
Was this the right move? Is this the right time? Can we really balance raising three kids, homeschooling, my wife’s full-time career, and running a coffee company?
The short answer is… we’re doing our best. And so far, the support has been amazing. Our local community has been incredibly encouraging, and we’re starting to see repeat customers (which truly makes my heart soar). Every new order or kind message feels like a little reminder that we’re on the right track.
What I’ve Learned So Far
Let me just say this: Math matters. A lot.
Tracking expenses, understanding margins, managing inventory—it’s all part of the process. I joke that my head spins daily, but I’m also learning (thanks to my patient and brilliant wife) how to stay on top of it all. We’ve got spreadsheets, systems, and computers double-checking our numbers. Fun stuff. For any younger readers out there: seriously, stay in school and pay attention in math class. Future-you will thank you.
What’s Next
Our goal is to have shipping up and running by the end of the month, which means online sales and a stronger digital presence are next on the to-do list. That part makes me a little nervous—I’m new to content creation—but we’ll take it one step at a time. One new skill at a time. (Also, I need to make sure I don’t scare my wife off. Just kidding—she’s stuck with me for life!)
Thanks for Being Here
That’s the latest from our little corner of the coffee world. Big things are coming, and our horizons are expanding quickly. I hope you’ll continue walking this journey with us. Your support—whether it’s buying a bag of beans, sharing a post, or offering kind words—means the world.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we continue to grow, and as we work hard not to lose sight of what matters most: protecting our farmers, supporting fair labor, and honoring the amazing pollinators that make our coffee possible.
With gratitude,
Kelby
If you’re interested in buying something for you, or want to know what I use for my morning cup, here are some amazon links for you to consider: