Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Wein
Hi Stephanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Starting a coffee business was something I wanted to do since I had my first blended coffee as a teenager. I day dreamed of “pinup coffee” and the branding, which at the time was more like the american traditional tattoo style. I had this idea in the back of my mind but did not think it was realistic to do; so I went to college while working various jobs, and then joining the US Navy as a helicopter aircrewman. Once of the most influential jobs I had prior to the Navy was working for a local craft hard cider company in the Pacific Northwest. I was able to grow with this company, and that is where I fell in love with craft culture. How they used genuine ingredients, transparent processes and were so friendly and welcoming in the community. I loved how a craft product like that truly bring people together over something to enjoy!
It wasn’t until my last two years in the Navy when this crazy coffee dream popped back up, and I decided it was time to take the plunge. I had always been obsessed with coffee, and loved trying coffee from all over when I would travel or be deployed, so I had some coffee knowledge, but I began reading every book, attending every webinar and training I could. I studied both coffee and business (and still do) before deciding on learning how to roast coffee. I began to roast on my first 1kg machine and the rest is history.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Owning a business has proved to be hard at times, and as any entrepreneur knows, it will not stay smooth. Embracing the struggles – and learning from them – has been the best way for us to keep moving and growing. Finding funding or organizing the necessary funds to start a business are the first struggle, and then it will change to industry specific struggles, finding partners such as good web designers, hiring staff, etc. But it is worth it!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Pinup Coffee Co., our mission is to make specialty coffee approachable to all. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience exceptional coffee. Our focus is not only on delivering outstanding quality but also on creating a true community where interactions, understanding, and consistency thrive. We don’t just say our mission, we live by it. Each and every person who walks into our roastery or cafe feels immediately welcomed. We extend our reach beyond coffee lovers, collaborating with breweries, food producers, and composters to benefit the wider community. Our commitment lies in consistently providing fresh, high-quality coffee, serving amazing customers, and benefiting all those involved.
We have an online store, amazing coffee subscription options, we wholesale coffee to local businesses, and have our own coffee shop inside a busting brewery in Virginia Beach. To date, Pinup Coffee Co has opened and is currently expanding its roasting facility, opened its first coffee shop, and became a certified DoD Skillbridge Provider. The company is certified women-owned, veteran-owned, SWaM certified, and a V3 Employer.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Dedication and work ethic are instrumental for us and the success of our business. Being dedicated to your brand, employees, products, and self-growth are so important for a thriving business. Having the work ethic to do what needs to be done, knowing no one is going to come help you, and being willing to help others are qualities we are proud of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pinupcoffeeco.com
Image Credits
All photos are property of Pinup Coffee Co