Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Kowalski
Alyssa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Ten years ago I was working at a bubble tea shop called Tii Cup, while also going to school to get my graphic design degree. I absolutely loved making drinks and making connections with customers. Some of which I have created life long friendships with.
When asked about what my dream would be, I said it was always my goal to have a coffee shop by the time I turned 30. Once the pandemic hit I realized how much of a risk it could be to own a coffee shop. I wanted to start small so I came up with the idea of starting as a coffee cart called Expresso Me. I had my first event at the company I graphic design at, and everyone absolutely loved my drinks. From there I knew I had something epic, I hit the ground running by reaching out to various
places to do events. Some of which Included popping up at the local liquor store in garrison at my cabin since there are no coffee shops near by.
We do any and all events from public to private such as teacher appreciation, weddings, baby showers, farmers markets, corporate events, you name it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting a company comes with no shortage of challenges, and building my coffee cart was no exception. I had a clear vision for how I wanted it to look and function, especially since it needed to collapse and fit into a Kia Soul. I hired someone to bring this vision to life, providing some of the materials myself. Unfortunately, the project wasn’t completed correctly or on time.
In the end, I took matters into my own hands and finished building it myself. The process was tough, but I’m incredibly proud of the engineering and creativity I put into making it work. This experience reinforced an important lesson: perseverance and determination are essential to achieving your goals, even when obstacles arise.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I graduated with a degree in graphic design and have been fortunate to work with incredible teams throughout my career. I started at Target Corporate and now work at The Creative Partners Group, where we collaborate closely with Target on projects like designing endcaps, creating presentations, and product photography.
In addition to my corporate work, I run my own business, Lock and Key (lockandkey.me), where I specialize in photography (product, food, and portrait), logo design, and creating elevated presentations. Over the past 10 years, I’ve loved working as a graphic designer, but I realized I was missing the personal connections that come from face-to-face interactions.
That’s why I started Expresso Me—a way to combine my creativity with my love for coffee and the joy of connecting with people. It’s been an incredible journey blending two passions into one fulfilling venture.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My mom has been one of my greatest supporters from the very beginning, always encouraging me to chase my dream of starting a coffee cart. She’s been by my side at every event, working tirelessly to help bring my vision to life. My sister is also an integral part of the team, making this a true family effort. I’m incredibly grateful for their unwavering support and the bond we’ve strengthened through this journey.
Pricing:
- Private events we charger $250 for the first hour and $150 for tech additional hour. This includes unlimited hot and iced signature drinks and espresso drinks as well as a few none coffee items. We can also work with you if you have any custom requests
Contact Info:
- Website: https://expressomecoffee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressomecoffee?igsh=MWt5djcxbDV1Y29tbA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EuFxdSXNB/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: Expressomecoffee@gmail.com
