COLUMBIA – A Fresh Brew for Coffee Lovers!
Rainy days might be on the horizon, but the coffee community in Columbia is buzzing with excitement! Godspeed, the delightful pop-up coffee shop founded by barista lovebirds Roger Caughman and Kailey Cunningham, has brewed up some amazing experiences over the past few months, and they are set to take their passion to the next level.
From Drip to Godspeed: A Journey of Flavor
The couple initially fell in love with coffee (and each other) while working at the popular Drip Café in Five Points. With a shared dream brewing in their hearts, they launched Godspeed in July to “break the mold of what coffee can be.” It didn’t take long for them to leave their mark on the local café scene. Their signature drinks, including the zesty Magpie latte with cinnamon and orange zest, and the seasonal Punk n Spite latte made with toasted marshmallow and homemade roasted pumpkin purée, quickly became fan favorites.
“It’s been a blast watching people try our unique creations,” Roger shares, beaming with pride. “They browse the menu and find their groove, and we get to learn what our community loves.”
Papa Jazz Moves Out, Godspeed Moves Up!
Just as Godspeed was making waves in Columbia, neighboring business Papa Jazz Record Shoppe temporarily moved to a different location for repairs. This turned into an opportunity for Roger and Kailey to step in and set up shop. Their cozy pop-up, featuring a charming mixture of funky florals and their iconic orange bubble lamp, became a hit.
But the good times don’t have to stop! After closing their first pop-up location on November 18, it’s on to the next adventure! The duo has their eyes set on a new spot just down the street at 711 Saluda Ave., partnering with the GrowCo organization in Columbia’s Boyd Innovation Center.
More Than Just Coffee: A Full Experience!
In their new pop-up, expect a café setting with ample seating and the opportunity to hang out longer with updated hours and even free Wi-Fi! And let’s not forget those mouthwatering pastries made right from local sources!
“This new chapter is huge for us,” Kailey explained. “We want to create a place where people can linger and savor the moment.”
Focusing on Local and Ethical Sourcing
Godspeed isn’t merely about great coffee; they also prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. From utilizing quality beans from Junto Coffee to incorporating flavored milk from Homestead Creamery, the local connections are part of what gives their drinks a unique flair. Their Jam Jar espresso soda utilizes locally sourced Sakhar Jams, ensuring that their ingredients are not only delicious but also support local farmers and businesses.
“We think it’s important that those who produce these products are compensated fairly,” Kailey emphasizes. “We want to create beautiful connections in our community.”
Inclusivity is Key!
Roger and Kailey are also dedicated to making their shop welcoming for everyone. With options like dairy-free milk and gelatin-free vegan marshmallows on their menu, they strive to ensure that everyone can enjoy their coffee experience.
“We want our menu to be diverse and accessible to all,” Kailey notes. “It’s about having something for everyone.”
What’s Next for Godspeed?
Although they haven’t set an exact opening date for the new location yet, the team is aiming for a reopening sometime in December. In the meantime, fans of Godspeed can stay up to date with all the latest news by following their Instagram page or reaching out via email.
So whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a sunny morning, Godspeed is ready to welcome you with open arms (and delicious coffee) at their new location!
