By Kate Berkey | Echo
Light bulbs twinkle from the ceiling and colorful art hangs on the walls. Big picture windows and hand-written menus with college-friendly prices create a friendly atmosphere. It feels like home with an open seating arrangement, books on the shelves and homemade mugs. The room is filled with simple ethnic touches, seamlessly blending the cultures of South Africa, England and America.
It's Upland's newest coffee shop, and it's open today.
Cathy Kerton-Johnson, owner and founder of The Bridge Café, is excited about the opening of her new shop, something she's dreamed of for a long time.
"I am passionate about good food, local agriculture, as well as small-town culture," she said.
After living in South Africa and England, Kerton-Johnson and her family have made Upland their home.
"I love the local food culture of England and Europe," Kerton-Johnson said. "They have done a great job at celebrating and sustaining local food practices, and I would love that to be a culture here in the United States."
The Bridge Café purchases its food and beverage products from businesses in central Indiana that focus on providing quality products. One of these businesses, Sea Salt and Cinnamon, is based in Muncie and focuses on baking delicious vegan cupcakes. Other Indiana-based partners includeVictory Acres in Upland, The Abbey Coffee Co. in Marion and The Smoking Goose in Indianapolis.
"We are bridging many gaps in our community and culture," Cathy said.
She heard many people talk about starting a bakery or coffee shop in Upland and knew her international experiences would help her create the kind of space the town needs.
Cathy realizes this kind of business venture is possible because of a group effort made by willing and excited people. "(This change) not only takes business to support it, but it takes people to change the way they consume food. I hope that introducing a 'slow' way of eating-in-season, sustainably and simple, with minimal processing-will help to change our culture here."
Not only is she hoping to help shift the culture and mindset of this town, Cathy also is hoping to inspire other business leaders.
"I would love our business to be a catalyst for more people to take the risk and re-invest in downtown Upland. I believe we have the talent and resources to make our town vibrant again," Cathy said.
This vision, and the goal of creating a connection space for the community, motivates Cathy. Her love for others makes this business venture a daily joy for her. It's not just about starting a business and making a profit.
The Bridge Café opens today and is located at 230 N. Main Street. The hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m to 10 p.m.
