Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby White.
Shelby, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Cedar’s Coppice started as an idea created by schoolwork. Multiple times over through high school and college I was given the task of writing a business plan, and time again I kept going back to the dream of a cafe with home made pastries, good coffee, books, plants, and community. I was working a 9-5 after getting my business degree, all while this idea sat at the back of my brain. So after a couple of years in the hustle and bustle, I jumped off the cliff to make that dream a reality. I found the space, did the paperwork, the permits, and with the help of my family and friends, turned this space into a welcoming warm ‘third place’. Our name comes from a few personal tidbits. My father passed away in 2019; he was my biggest fan and advocate. He and I always bonded over the outdoors and trees, with some of my favorite memories on the farm surrounding Cedar trees. We opened on his birthday, August 30th. Coppice is more a metaphorical application, acknowledging the starting from scratch and building something better and stronger than what was before.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Nothing is ever perfect, and any plan you may create will have some adjustments along the way. This stands true here as well, some of the items we had to revisit were the limitations of using a historical building, some red tape and lots of emails with questions for outfitting a kitchen that worked with us and preserved the integrity of our downtown history. On a lighter struggle, the parking downtown can get rough!
As you know, we’re big fans of Cedar’s Coppice. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
This venture, “Cedar’s Coppice”, aims to provide a ‘Third’ place to Bastrop residents. A place outside of home and work for socializing, community, or simply a cozy change of scenery. A location that provides a haven for those seeking great coffee, engaging reads, and a lively social atmosphere. The third place theory is held dear with us, and we believe that as social media and fast paced lifestyles become more apparent, its important to slow down and connect with each other. We serve a wide range of gourmet sandwiches, coffee, beer, wine, local artist merchandise, and our favorite – home made pastries! We also host fun events with pop up book stores, tattoo artists, live music, as well as host private group gatherings from birthdays to baby showers.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Go out and talk to people! You never know who you may meet and what connections may arise. Rotary clubs have always been special to me as well, having been a RYLA participate and leader for many years. Get out and join your community organizations!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cedarsmill.wixsite.com/my-site-1/about
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cedarscoppice
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cedars-Coppice-61574084022989/
