Our “Behind The Bar'“ series highlights one of our team members, celebrating their unique contribution to the Tala experience. We believe the connection across the bar can be meaningful and impactful. Our team puts a smile on the faces of so many each day by simply serving delicious beverages and being an authentic presence in each person’s day. Learn more about what makes each person on the Tala Team unique with this personal interview.

Grace joined the Tala crew in the summer of 2023 and, as of this month, is now the new manager of the Highwood location. All the way from Hartford, Wisconsin, Grace made the big move to Illinois to study international relations and environmental studies. You’ve probably seen her in the cafe with a big warm smile on her face. You can come see her at Tala most days of the week!

Q: How would you describe yourself to someone who doesn't know you?

I would describe myself as a friendly, easy-going, girl’s girl. I like to get to know people and don't mind small talk. I’m also a big nerd who loves being outside. I’d really just call myself a ‘friendly, crunchy, granola nerd.’

Q: What is your favorite part about working at Tala?

There’s a couple of my favorite parts actually. I really love my coworkers, it makes for a really fun work environment for sure. It’s nice being able to look forward to going into work because I know it'll be fun no matter what. I also love interacting with customers and getting to know the regulars. It is also really nice getting to know about coffee so in depth. Getting to know the ins and outs and nitty gritty stuff about coffee has been so fun. I love being able to share that knowledge with customers now.

Q: What's your favorite drink to make vs to drink at Tala?

My go-to drink is a classic lavender latte; that's my choice at almost any coffee shop I go to. Our lavender is top tier tho. I also really love Coquito. My favorite drink to make is the mermaid, especially when they're hot and ‘for here’. I have perfected the latte art on one side and the whip cream on one side. Whenever I send that out its chefs kiss.

Q: What is something that you wish people knew about you?

I wish that people knew that my outlook on life really revolves around my happiness and other people's happiness. Regardless of money or what is going on, I'm comfortable where I am and I prioritize enjoying my life and being happy. I’ve learned to focus on that instead of what other people or society thinks I should be focusing on. 

Q: What topic will always get you talking when you’re on the bar?

Star wars, anime, anything like that. I also love talking about the environment, as it’s what I studied in college. Come talk to me about climate change or anything related and you got me hooked.

Q: What's a fun fact about yourself?

When I was in second grade I broke my arm because I was trying to save a toad. I was sitting on a fence when my sibling handed me a toad and it started squirming and I fell off and didn't want to squash the toad so I landed right on my arm, but the toad was safe!

Another fun fact is that I was obsessed with bigfoot and would make really bad bigfoot traps in my garden. If you ever see a sighting, let me know please.

Q: What do you do when you're not at work?

I love arts and crafts. I've been crocheting recently. I’ve been making wall tapestries. I also love to read and to just be outdoors when the weather is nice. 

Q:What’s your biggest hot take or most controversial opinion?

I believe that the left lane is the passing lane, not the sit-and-go-the-speed-limit lane.

Q: Who is your favorite musician? Why?

One of my favorites is Gretta Ray. Her album got me through my breakup. Her lyrics are just so real and she’s a great storyteller with her songs. I just relate to her lyrics a lot and she has an amazing voice. My favorite song of hers is “Love Me Right.”

Q: What is one thing you wish you were an expert at?

Randomly, I wish I was an expert at Archery because it's so cool. Realistically, I wish I was an expert at interior design. I'm the type of person who needs my space to be nice to want to be there and it just isn't right now.