We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tierra Robinson- Jeter a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Tierra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I’ve loved coffee ever since I was a child. There was something about the warmth, the aroma, and the sense of comfort it brought that always drew me in. As I got older, coffee shops became my go-to spaces for creativity and reflection. I spent countless hours in those cozy environments while writing my women’s empowerment blog, Blossoming Unlimited. It was during that time, surrounded by the rich aromas and energy of those spaces, that I had an epiphany.

I realized I wanted to create something more—a space for millennial women of color like myself who love coffee but often don’t see themselves represented in the industry. I envisioned a place that went beyond just great coffee, a space that emphasized inclusivity, representation, and empowerment. That’s when the idea for LaFleur Coffee Boutique was born. I wanted to build a community that would uplift and inspire women of color while delivering an exceptional, high-quality coffee experience. Coffee is more than a drink—it’s an opportunity to create a sense of belonging, connection, and empowerment.

Tierra, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Tierra R. Jeter, a Birmingham, AL native, wife, mom, entrepreneur, coffee enthusiast, and women’s empowerment advocate. My passion for coffee and desire to create an inclusive space for millennial women of color led to the founding of LaFleur Coffee Boutique. I hold a Business Management degree from The University of Alabama at Birmingham and have a background in Supply Chain and Manufacturing, which significantly informs my business practices today.

At LaFleur Coffee Boutique, we focus on inclusivity, representation, quality, and empowerment while providing a luxury experience for our customers. We specialize in hand-crafted specialty coffee and herbal teas, offering single-origin whole bean coffees, premium ground blends, loose herbal teas, and uniquely crafted bottled beverages. Our mission is to deliver not just great coffee but an elevated experience that uplifts and empowers, all while using high-quality, ethically sourced products.

One of the key problems we address is the lack of accessible, high-quality coffee experiences tailored to women of color. We pride ourselves on using 100% Arabica beans and carefully curated herbal teas that promote immune health, digestion, and mental wellness. Our offerings span retail, onsite catering, and corporate partnerships, ensuring that convenience and quality are always at the forefront.

What I’m most proud of is how far we’ve come in just four years—from an e-commerce-only business to a thriving retail presence and community-focused initiatives. We dedicate a small percentage of our profits each quarter to support the homeless community in Birmingham and engage in regular community service projects. This commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment is central to our brand.

At LaFleur Coffee Boutique, we’re dedicated to creating an environment where women of color feel represented, empowered, and inspired while enjoying a luxury coffee experience. I look forward to continuing our growth and making a meaningful impact in our community through coffee.

Have you ever had to pivot?

One significant moment when I had to pivot was during my current pregnancy with my third child. As I entered the later stages, I faced unexpected complications that led to hospitalization and bed rest. This situation has required me to rethink how I manage LaFleur Coffee Boutique and continue serving my community while prioritizing my health and that of my baby.

Initially, I had ambitious plans for upcoming events and partnerships, but I had to adjust my expectations and find new ways to keep the business running. With the support of my husband and my team, we have shifted our focus to shipping, catering services, and corporate partnerships for restocking and wholesale, ensuring we could still meet customer needs without my direct involvement.

This pivot has taught me the importance of adaptability and delegation. It has reinforced my commitment to supporting my community, as I continue to engage with local organizations even while managing my health. Despite the challenges, I’ve learned to appreciate the resilience it takes to navigate such transitions, both personally and professionally. This experience is shaping how I approach my business and inspiring me to continue empowering others through LaFleur Coffee Boutique.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation within the coffee market has been a multifaceted journey, rooted in several key principles. First and foremost, my commitment to quality and customer experience has been essential. From the beginning, I focused on sourcing 100% Arabica beans and ethically sourced herbal teas, ensuring that every product we offer meets high standards. This dedication resonates with customers who value quality and drives repeat business.

My brand colors play a crucial role in my visual identity, drawing attention to our packaging and setups. These elements not only create an inviting atmosphere but also enhance brand recognition and appeal to our target audience. The thoughtful presentation of our products elevates the overall experience, making it memorable for our customers.

Fostering a strong sense of community has also significantly shaped my reputation. I’m deeply committed to supporting the Birmingham homeless community through quarterly hygiene, food, drink, and clothing drives. These givebacks demonstrate our brand’s values and help build trust and loyalty among customers who appreciate our dedication to making a positive impact.

Moreover, my dedication to empowering women and young girls is evident through my etiquette tea parties, which include certified instruction on dining and tea etiquette. This initiative not only enriches the participants’ skills but also fosters confidence and self-esteem, aligning perfectly with my mission to uplift others.

Additionally, my partnerships with local schools and businesses are designed to accelerate the progress of the Birmingham community as a whole. By collaborating with these organizations, we create opportunities for growth and development, reinforcing the idea that LaFleur Coffee Boutique is not just a coffee shop, but a hub for community engagement and empowerment.

All of these elements combined have helped me build a solid reputation in the market, positioning LaFleur Coffee Boutique as a go-to destination for quality coffee and a community-focused experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lafleurcoffeeboutique.shop
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/lafleurcoffeeboutique
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lafleurcoffeeboutique
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tierra-jeter-054486172?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app