The Uniqueness of Small Business
As November comes to an end and the holiday season approaches, there is a special day we are particularly excited about: Small Business Saturday. This is a day dedicated to supporting and celebrating small businesses across the country, and we are thrilled to be a part of it! We know you will be tired from all of the Black Friday shopping you will be doing, so stop into Tala and shop small on November 25, 2023!
Tala Coffee Roasters is proud to serve Highwood, Libertyville, and Winnetka (coming soon!), but we see ourselves as more than just a coffee shop or small business. We are where meaningful conversations happen, friendships form, cards are played, and where our local community comes together. We are a small business with a big heart and love for our community, and we owe every bit of our success to you, our loyal customers.
Just like our business would not be the same without our loyal customers, it would also not be the same, let alone running, without our incredible employees! We asked our Highwood cafe and Libertyville cafe employees a simple but meaningful question: “What is unique about being a part of a small business?”
What is unique about being a part of a small business?
“I get the chance to know people, not just the product they consume from the business. I know our customers well enough to catch up on life when they come in for a cup of coffee and I know my co-workers like friends. Knowing people and being known by people is my favorite aspect of being involved in small business.”
“The most unique aspect of being a part of a small business is knowing your coworkers and bosses really well! Because the business is built on a dream, people involved really care about each other. It feels rewarding.”
“Working in a small business means that we’re small enough to where I can still troll my employers on a daily basis and I think that’s magical.”
“Greater personal connections with both your customers and your coworkers.”
“How personal it is with our customers! There’s a certain community built with small businesses where even the smallest interactions with customers can feel super intentional. It’s such a great way to meet new people and form a bond that’s bigger than just ordering coffee.”
“It is so unique because I am able to create personal connections with my co-workers and customers. I love hearing people’s stories and what experiences made them who they are. It makes me feel like I am truly contributing to the business and adding value.”
“I love prioritizing interaction with every customer, whether they're a regular or just visiting. Small businesses create human connection, which makes my job more fun and (hopefully!) brightens their day.”
“More opportunities to foster personal connections with customers and staff!”
“Being part of a small business is unique because I actually know the owners and can know generally where the profits are going. Working for a big box store just felt like contributing to the growing wealth disparity in American society. But knowing the faces, names, and stories of the owners of Tala means that I don’t have to worry that my work is profiting ethically ambiguous business people who don’t need any more money.”
All of the Tala staff believes in the power of a small business. We believe in the difference that we can make in the three communities we serve and on Small Business Saturday, we want to share that belief with you. Let’s celebrate the big impact of small businesses together!
We cannot wait to serve you!
Abby Mckinley
Abby was born and raised in Kentucky, but is currently studying business management and entrepreneurship at Lake Forest College, which is how she came to work at Tala! Abby’s drink of choice is the Mermaid, and when she isn’t at school or work she enjoys playing tennis or skiing.