Behind The Scenes With Courtney
Our “Behind The Scenes'“ series highlights one of our production team members, celebrating their unique contribution to the Tala experience. We believe the connection behind and across the bar can be meaningful and impactful. Our production team is the glue that holds Tala together, and we wouln’t be who we are without them. Learn more about what makes each person on the Tala Team unique with this personal interview.
Courtney is hands down my favorite coworker. She’s incredibly kind and funny, with a calming presence that can steady a room even in the middle of chaos. Her wit and patience make people feel at ease, and she’s constantly surprising me with how much she knows and how many skills she brings to the table. She’s incredibly humble and doesn’t always realize just how cool she is. If you’ve ever been served by her, you know she understands both coffee and people.
What is your position or role at Tala?
“Syrup production”—it’s a team of one.
How long have you been at Tala?
Too long. (Okay… three years, if we’re rounding up.)
How would you describe yourself to someone who doesn’t know you?
“I wouldn’t.”
(As an outside observer, Courtney is notoriously humble. I’d describe her as kind, a fun time, and constantly surprising everyone with her many talents.)
What is your favorite part about working at Tala?
The community.
Is that community more coworkers or customers?
A mix of both. Since I’m mostly back of house, I don’t see customers as often—but when I do, it feels like a reunion. I’ve also made some really great friends here.
What is your favorite drink to make and to consume?
Cold brew.
What is your favorite memory at Tala?
Traumatic—but memorable. Pumpkin Fest 2023 with Alo. We were severely understaffed, I had to bar-train her on the fly while managing a wave of customers, and then—out of nowhere—Stefan and Joana showed up and saved us for a bit.
What do you do when you’re not at work?
Hang out with Bean (her very adorable golden retriever), run marathons, try new coffee shops, and go to workout classes. (She’s up at 5 am when not in the roastery, trying a pilates class)
What is one topic that will always get you talking when you’re on bar?
Music—any and all of it. Bon Iver is my all-time favorite, but this year my top artist was Racoma.
Are you a morning person or a night person?
Morning. This is a new development.
What is your favorite movie and why?
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. It’s nostalgic—I grew up watching it with my grandma. Also, Robert Redford is hot.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I’m married. People don’t usually know that. It’s not a secret or anything—lol. Also, I have a master’s degree in oboe performance.
How would you describe your style?
Coastal chic meets streetwear. (She laughed as she said this) Very Gen Z… plus about ten years.
What are your hobbies?
Running and music.
What is one thing you wish you were an expert at?
Civil engineering.
Do you have a secret or obscure talent?
No secrets.
What do you listen to while making syrups?
Podcasts—depends on the day.
Who is someone you’d love to get breakfast with?
Justin Vernon from Bon Iver.
If you had to pick a “blood” or “body” item to represent you, what would it be and why?
Cold brew—because I enjoy it.
Mashed potatoes—as an homage to my Irish heritage.
Who is the most famous person you’ve met?
David Spade. He was at my rehearsal dinner. He happened to be walking by as we were gearing up to tie the knot. (See, she is married)
What Jeopardy category would you absolutely sweep?
Classical music—see: master’s degree in oboe performance.
Go-to karaoke song?
“I Believe in a Thing Called Love” by The Darkness.
If I’m drunk enough, I can hit the notes.
Alo Ochoa
Alo is often found behind the bar at the Highwood Cafe. When she's not crafting drinks, she's listening to history podcasts or perfecting her latest baking creation