Bear Lake Coffee Co. Grand Opens in Barronett, Wisconsin
Bear Lake Coffee Co. officially opened its doors in Barronett, Wisconsin, in August 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for a coffeehouse that has already become a beloved hub for the local community.
In August 2024, Bear Lake Coffee Co. proudly celebrated its grand opening in Barronett, Wisconsin. After a soft open in March 2024, we embarked on a journey of growth, refining our operations and deepening our connection with both local and online communities. This grand opening marked the culmination of two years of a full building restoration, assembling a founding team, and pursuing a dream of making an impact through coffee and connection.
Grand Opening Highlights
Grand Opening schedule – August 2nd and 3rd, 2024
The festivities began with roastery tours with Caleb Walker (head of coffee), giving patrons an inside look at our coffee-roasting operations. On Friday, we had our farmers market and live music. Over the course of both days, we had multiple ribbon-cutting ceremonies with the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce, Barronett Civic Club, Cumberland Chamber of Commerce, and B Local Wisconsin, which is a testament to our close ties with these valued partners and organizations.
Over the course of Friday and Saturday, we had some amazing giveaways, including our Grand Opening Reserve Blend coffee (made exclusively for this event), hand totes, and limited-edition T-shirts. Saturday kicked off with a run club and yoga session, emphasizing the importance of wellness and community connection.
Standout moments for me included our barista team serving up smiles, one cup at a time. Todd Brunclik (Sales Manager) brightening our patrons' day with some great giveaways. Another highlight was the custom coffee bag give-away, hand-made by our store manager, Kate Juza, using burlap from our green coffee supply. Our head of coffee Caleb Walker and I hosted brewing demos, giving patrons how to brew a perfect cup at home.
Our founding team got to celebrate with our everyday hero, Paul Ridgeway, a local resident of Barronett and valued patron. Paul, you’ve been with us since day one. Walking through our doors every day to start your day, you have brought not just your support but also your warmth, kindness, and good spirit. It’s patrons like you who make this place more than just a coffeehouse—you’ve helped us build a true community here in Barronett!
For Bear Lake Coffee Co., this grand opening represents the start of a lifelong journey. Our vision extends far beyond building a business; it's about creating a blueprint for making a positive impact on the local communities and beyond. Bear Lake Coffee is more than just a coffeehouse and roastery—it’s a beacon of hope. It reflects our belief that, even from the most remote corners of the world, we can make a significant difference by serving exceptional coffee and offering genuine hospitality.
Last but certainly not least, thank you to my son Bruno, my daughter Isabel, and my wife Amy for all your incredible work over the summer. Bruno, your social media content and engagement were top-notch. Isabel, your amazing granola, muffins, and kitchen magic made everything delicious. Amy, your heart and design made the coffeehouse feel like home. I’m beyond grateful for your love, support, and for believing in me—even when I’m fueled by too much coffee. You inspire me every day, and I’m lucky to be on this journey with you.
Thank you to everyone who has believed in and supported us over the past two years. It’s truly amazing to reflect on how far we’ve come!
Where it all started in August 2022
Here is where we are today, September 2024
With love and gratitude,
Founder and Licensed Q Grader
Sources:
- Bear Lake Coffee Co. - website
- Barronett, WI - Data USA
- Spring Update: Bear Lake Coffee Co. Soft Opens!
- Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce - website
- Barronett Civic Club - Facebook
- Cumberland Chamber of Commerce - website
- B Local Wisconsin - website
- Bruno Damiani | LinkedIn
- Q Graders (coffeeinstitute.org)
