We recently connected with Amber Gordon and have shared our conversation below.
Amber, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
At Wake Coffee Co, we exist to enrich the lives of people throughout Charlotte. Our mission is to bring people together for elevated experiences and exceptional coffee cocktails, and charcuterie. Essentially, creating a space where everyone feels like they belong, no matter their walk of life. We believe everyone deserves an elevated experience and is worthy of that.
On the staffing side, our goal is to foster genuine connections and coach our team on how to handle difficult conversations—both personally and professionally. Let’s face it, we all encounter tough conversations at some point, and if we can equip our people with the tools to navigate those situations with empathy and confidence, we’re contributing to the greater good. These relational skills not only help at work but carry over into their personal lives and future career opportunities.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was a single mom for 14 years, and during that time, there were moments when I had to juggle two jobs just to make ends meet. Hard work was something I learned early on. I’ve always loved coffee and serving my community, so when I found a local nonprofit coffee shop, I was beyond excited. Once I started volunteering, my passion for coffee grew even more—not just as a barista, but in everything from the extraction process to how things worked behind the scenes. I ended up volunteering there for seven years, and it was an incredible experience.
Then in 2020, when the world was turning upside down, I reached a crossroads. I knew my corporate healthcare job wasn’t my forever career, and it was time for something new. Being the daughter of immigrants and a North Carolina native, I’ve always had deep roots in entrepreneurship. Growing up, I spent countless hours in my parents’ restaurants in Denver, Stanley, and Gastonia, watching them work hard and build relationships with their customers. I saw firsthand how rewarding it was for them, and it shaped my desire to serve others. I knew I wanted to carry on their legacy while building my own for my kids.
Before Wake Coffee Co. came to life, I gave my all in every role I had. I naturally took on leadership roles, always going the extra mile without expecting recognition. But over time, I realized that while I loved serving others, I had more to give—something bigger than my current roles allowed.
The vision for Wake Coffee Co. started when my husband came home one day and mentioned a vacant building in northwest Charlotte. I didn’t know what he was talking about at first, but he encouraged me to follow my passion and dream big. That’s when Wake Coffee Co. was born. I wanted to create more than just a coffee shop—a place that not only offered amazing coffee but also cocktails, charcuterie, and hospitality at its core.
In an industry dominated by big chains, we set ourselves apart with trendsetting lattes, curated cocktails, and a boutique co-working space. We love supporting our local community by hosting local vendors and offering catering services, including our popular mimosa bar and morning breakfast packages for brides and corporate offices.
Wake Coffee Co. is so much more than just a coffee shop—it’s a place where hospitality, quality, and community come together. I’m proud to be building this legacy for my kids while honoring the values my parents instilled in me.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Managing a team effectively while maintaining high morale requires a balance of relational health and accountability. Building genuine relationships is essential; I take the time to get to know each person, understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and individual circumstances. This relational foundation fosters trust and open communication, allowing team members to feel valued and heard.
I believe in meeting people where they are. Everyone comes with their unique experiences and challenges, so I offer support and flexibility when needed. This approach helps create an inclusive environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas.
While empathy is important, accountability is equally vital. I set clear expectations and standards for performance, ensuring everyone knows what is required. When challenges arise, I address them directly yet compassionately, guiding team members back on track without diminishing their morale.
Encouraging open dialogue is another key aspect of my management style. I promote a culture where team members can voice their opinions and feedback without fear of judgment. Regular check-ins and team meetings provide opportunities for everyone to share their thoughts and contribute to decision-making.
Recognizing achievements also plays a crucial role in maintaining high morale. I make it a point to acknowledge individual and team accomplishments, reinforcing positive behavior and motivating everyone to continue striving for excellence.
Investing in my team’s professional development is vital as well. I offer training, mentoring, and opportunities for advancement, showing that I care about their long-term success and well-being.
Finally, creating a positive and fun work environment is essential. I encourage team-building activities, celebrate milestones together, and promote a culture of collaboration and support.
By combining these strategies, I aim to cultivate a team that not only meets high standards but also enjoys a healthy, engaged, and motivated workplace.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
One of the most defining stories of my journey that illustrates resilience is my experience as a single mom. It’s a testament to what it truly means to be resilient. I’ve learned to run on little sleep, juggling multiple jobs and responsibilities, all while multitasking at a level I never thought possible.
Being a single mom is what I call “brutiful”—a blend of beautiful and brutal. It’s a journey that demands strength and determination, and it’s certainly not for the weak. Every challenge I faced, from managing my time to ensuring my children had everything they needed, shaped my character in profound ways.
This grit has not only helped me navigate the complexities of motherhood but has also been instrumental in running my business today. The resilience I developed during those tough times fuels my passion and drives me to overcome obstacles. It taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of a supportive community.
Ultimately, my journey as a single mom has instilled in me a deep sense of resilience that I carry into every aspect of my life and work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wakecoffeeco.com
- Instagram: wakecoffeeco
- Facebook: wakecoffeecompany
- Other: personal instagram: amberfitstrong
Image Credits
Sydney Erin Photography