A former banker abandoned their financial profession to establish a café, subsequently finding prosperity through TikTok.
In the heart of Damascus, Oregon, Cowgirl Barista has become more than just a café—it's a hub for the community. Founded by Nicole McMillian, who left her ten-year career in corporate banking to pursue her passion for coffee, the café has grown from a small coffee stand into a thriving establishment offering food, beer, and a small outdoor area for concerts.
Initially, Cowgirl Barista struggled for survival. However, fate had other plans. A viral TikTok video featuring a large plastic bucket filled with iced coffee and a straw catapulted the café into the limelight. The video tripled the initial sales of Cowgirl Barista, saving it from the brink of closure.
Today, the café extends its opening hours to accommodate the influx of customers from near and far. Families drive for an hour and a half to visit Cowgirl Barista, with some visitors even travelling from Texas and beyond. The café's unique charm and McMillian's signature coffee blend have made it a must-visit destination for those searching for 'coffee near me' or looking for a specific 'starbucks' alternative.
McMillian finds the most fulfilling aspect of running Cowgirl Barista to be the creation of something beautiful in her community. She practices sustainability by offering 'bucket refills' with a $1 discount for customers who bring their buckets back. Cowgirl Barista aims to build a community in a town that has few gathering places.
The café's success hasn't gone unnoticed. Local media have reported on Cowgirl Barista, and the café has partnered with larger food companies. McMillian's skills learned in banking have helped manage the numbers, train her team, and set up systems at Cowgirl Barista. Her background in helping small businesses with loans and business strategies has proven invaluable.
Before opening the café, McMillian had no experience in coffee but spent six months honing her skills by making drinks for her father's employees. Her dedication and hard work have paid off, as customers now drive for hours to buy McMillian's bucket of coffee.
Cowgirl Barista has revitalized the city of Damascus, becoming a hub for events such as concerts, markets, and car shows. It's more than just a café—it's a community gathering place where people come together to enjoy great food, good company, and a fantastic cup of coffee.
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