Some days, it seemed as if this day would never come! But here we are. Our doors are open, and we even have a few days under our belts. And, what FUN it has been! The learning curve seems steep at certain points in the day, and you have no idea how much we appreciate everyone's flexibility as we navigate the waters of our new business.
There is so much to learn, and I wanted to share some of the biggest things we have learned so far. First, the generosity of heart of the people of Hardwick, though not unexpected, is truly inspirational for us as we learn our new registers (installed Wednesday), figure out how to navigate the kitchen with 4 people (which couldn't be done until we opened) and decide how to handle multiple orders at once. You make us want to learn faster and do better for you! Training will end at some point, and then we won't need as many people around. Second, and for the more constructive lessons, no one likes a cold donut! Who does, right? This darn pastry case is bound and determined to freeze everything we put in to it so as our broken record goes, we appreciate your patience as we try to figure out the best way to make it work. Third, 'grab and go' is not a Hardwick fave. We hear ya but we are hoping that in our efforts to improve our speed of service and knowing that everything is freshly prepared as needed throughout the day and using only the best local ingredients, you will give it a try. These cucumbers are out of local gardens in the salads and would be super convenient to grab on your way to work! Next, no one is quite sure where to order. So, here's the deal - the gals at the registers can take your order and they are located behind the beam. But, if you are seated at the counter and want to order from your seat, flexibility is the name of the game, and we can take your order from there. If you order at the registers and want to eat on the new patio out back, that works for us! Want to eat on the porch? We can find you out there as well when your order is ready. Simply let whoever takes your order at the register know and get comfy. The list of what we need to learn is longer than some of what we have learned and I look forward to making that list smaller. We hope you will keep coming in and helping us get better! So what do you say, Hardwick? Can you spread the word? See you on the Common!
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Another major hurdle crossed on our way to the finish line. There is so much going on at the coffeehouse, it is hard to keep up with it all! I am so very excited to share that we received our official permit to operate a food establishment. That was the last of the big items on my to-do list, and with it officially crossed off, we are almost ready to open our doors.
The brick and tiling are complete, the new bathroom is done, the painters have finished with the walls, and the landscaping transformation has officially begun. I know lots of you have popped in to take a peek at the progress, and I hope you are as pleased as I am with the new look. The final reveal is almost at hand, and we are all so ready! Stephanie has been working hard on putting together an amazing team, and has her office all clean and repainted in the basement. While I work from afar, she toils away tirelessly under sometimes frustrating circumstances, and I couldn't have done a fraction of what she has accomplished in such a short time. Please look for Steph at the Farmers Market on Sunday on the common. The coffeehouse may not be ready to open its doors just yet but she will be there to serve up some great iced coffee, cold brew, hot coffee and other menu items you will love. |
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September 2024
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