By Lydia See
Living in a small city like Newburyport can have it’s perks. For instance, if you lived in a bigger city, the people who served you your coffee, your beer, or helped you pick out that great pair of jeans wouldn’t know your name. Hell, they probably wouldn’t even remember your face the next time you went in. One of the spectacular things about living in such a tight-knit community is the quality of interpersonal relationships between the individuals working in the service and retail industry and their patrons. We are fortunate to have a downtown filled with locally owned and run establishments, employed by people who actually care about their guests. As part on an ongoing series (due to the only word on the street right now being “snow!”), our “Word on the Street” column will be featuring people you may encounter quite regularly. People who keep this small city caffeinated, fed, and fashionable. People who appreciate their regular customers and reward them with excellent service. They remember you, now’s your chance to get to “Know Your…. Barista”
After working at Cafe Di Sienna for 2.5 years, Candice, from Amesbury, has gotten her customer relations philosophy down pat. "Regulars make a huge difference in my day. If I know their coffee, they make me happy!"
Abby has worked at Fowles for a while now, and you can usually find her making beverages with a smile or politely ringing someone up. Recently, however, she has learned the grill and enjoys working the back-end as well! It's important to her to be knowledgeable in all areas of Fowles' operations.
At Starbucks, you're likely to see Crystal (l), from Newburyport, and Stephanie (r), from Amesbury thoroughly enjoying themselves behind the counter. Stephanie, who has worked at Starbucks for 6 months, said she's genuinely interested in the regulars. "I like to get to know them, and their drink, and make them feel relaxed and comfortable." Crystal, who has worked for the Starbucks company for 9 years (1.5 years in Newburyport), replied "Regulars? I like the nice ones!" and the two of them burst into gales of laughter.
Gina, from Newbury, has owned Souffles for 2 years. Lately, they have been trying to grow their walk-in cafe business, and Gina says "the regulars make me feel more connected to the community." If you haven't been in since they rearranged the front end to include indoor seating, stop by and check it out, it's quite cozy!
Rachel at Plum Island Coffee Roasters, is from Newburyport, and really enjoys her regulars. "Regulars always make great conversation and are friendly," she says. "They always make my day better!" * Plum Island Coffee Roasters recently underwent a change in ownership, but don't worry, the baristas and general operations will remain the same!
For any “Know Your…..” ideas, please contact Lydia See at lydiasee.today@gmail.com.
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Lydia See is a local freelance photographer, journalist, and Jacqueline-of-all-trades. You can view her photography and read her blog at www.lydiasee.com, tweet her @lydiasee, or email her story or photoshoot ideas, comments, questions, or love-letters at lydiasee.today@gmail.com.
