With its eclectic coffee bean painted floor, appetizing menu and an assortment of coffees, teas and smoothies, Over Coffee, in downtown Hinesville, celebrated its first year in business Saturday with a ribbon cutting and a customer appreciation day.
Husband and wife owner, Jenny and Everett Cole, say the road to success has been paved with hard work, but was well worth it.
"It's been a lot of work but it has been exciting," Jenny Cole said. "The people we've met and the folks and support that we've received from everyone is just wonderful.".
"We were worried at first because of the location and really we didn't know what to expect," Everett Cole said. "We had some sort of idea from the previous owners, and it was a chance, but it has worked out and it is growing."
Jenny Cole said some folks are drawn to the building because of its age and character, but points out that it's the coffee and food they eventually return for.
"As far as I'm aware we are the only ones providing the types of coffee, teas and drinks, in addition to our menu, in this area," she said.
In an area where many buildings are vacant, the success of Over Coffee is one of the foundations that Hinesville's Downtown Development Director Vicky Davis said was an asset in her efforts to draw new businesses.
"Having a great anchor and successful business like Over Coffee is a tremendous assistance to me as I try to recruit other businesses out here," Davis said. "It is a great example of success. The place makes you feel like you are among family. It's a quaint and friendly environment and if you don't know anybody you soon will because everyone here and from the surrounding area is friendly and quick to introduce himself or herself."
"This is a good area and we have a specific clientele but the word is getting out," Everett Cole said. "And the activities that the city has going on in the plaza here has brought in more people who may not have known we were here. Once they come in and have some coffee and try some of our food they like it and they come back."
The Cole's use a premium espresso coffee from California and are the only ones in the area with the exclusive use of this special roast. In addition to food and coffee they provide an outlet for local musicians by allowing them to perform at their café on certain evenings. They also cater their foods for special events and make their café available for organizations' meetings.
Their staff includes Jill Demmin, Amber Goelz and the Coles' son Drew. Drew Cole has become somewhat the local icon of Over Coffee and jokingly attributes its success to him.
"People come here for me," he said. "I would say Jill or Amber but it's more than likely me. It's our friendliness and our acceptance of everybody to come in and just hang out, relax and get coffee. As far as I know we are the only location that provides live local musical entertainment along with our good coffee."
"We are waiting to see what the future holds and see what happens," Everett Cole said.

Over Coffee is located at 110 South Commerce Street. (912) 876-7622