By Natalie Szrajer, Writing is my love language to the world. On the side, I work full time at a nonprofit and am a new mom to twins. Coffee fuels me.
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Coffee is non-discriminatory. It doesn’t matter if you like your coffee with a little cream, no cream or extra syrup and all the whipped cream. Coffee shops are a staple across the country and there are plenty of options as alternatives to Starbucks.
Oftentimes, these shops have a mission or purpose for bringing you your daily cup of joe or they just want to bring the community together. It’s that simple.
Check out these shops in the Columbia and Lexington area for a perk-me-up and to support a cause you care passionately about. Get your buzz on and support the community.
The Local Buzz: Stephanie Bridgers saw a need and had a calling in Columbia so why not start a coffee shop where everyone is welcome. Her team serves a wide array of coffee drinks plus breakfast and lunch items. Bridgers is a parent of a child with special needs and understands the need for inclusivity.
Second Wave: Owned and operated by Arc of the Midlands, Second Wave Coffee & Books began last year with a mission to employ and train adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The shop is located in Lexington and features an array of coffee + cold drinks in addition to snacks.
The Haven Coffee House: Main Street in Lexington has a sweet and cozy spot for coffee patrons. Not only will you be greeted with coffee + deli choices but they also partner with Lighthouse for Life, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing awareness to educate people about human trafficking in their community.
Immaculate Consumption: Otherwise known as IMMAC, this shop holds longevity and is a favorite among downtown Cola dwellers. They are all about community and have been steadily brewing coffee for more than 20 years.
Loveland Coffee: Their shop is actually a drive-thru in Irmo but they are dedicated to partnering with the community (including Second Wave and Hotel Trundle!). From a Kickstarter campaign to cross-industry collabs, Beach Banks Loveland is dedicated to bringing fair trade organic to you.
Cool Beans: Where else can you find the Perfect Man or Woman on the menu? Located in downtown Columbia by the UofSC horseshoe, this coffee shop attracts college students and downtown workers all the time.
Steam and Ice: This isn’t your typical coffee hangout. In addition to coffee, they also offer smoothies and juice. Hence, steam + ice. Did you know they work with local high school students who help design the glass bottles? So sweet. Almost as sweet as the organic cotton candy afloat their smoothies!
Grace Coffee Company: You’ll be served up the sweetest southern hospitality at one of their two locations. They have a standstill location on the campus at CIU as well as a mobile coffee unit in Blythewood. They use locally roasted, organic beans so you know you’re getting the best.
Did I miss your favorite spot? Let me know with a nice message.
