Tucked away on the western edge of Monroe Street in downtown Franklin are three unique businesses. They represent more than a bustling breakfast and lunch spot, more than a chic fashion boutique, and more than a coffee shop with urban decor.
Ann’s Restaurant, BYTAVI, and Coffeehouse Five all offer dual-purpose shopping or dining. On October 5, these three businesses will debut Missions on Monroe, a collaborative event that highlights the purpose behind the storefront.
The concept began when BYTAVI Director Katie Schwarz started thinking of ways to raise awareness of the “why” behind the boutique. Brainstorming led to a plan that included their business neighbors, Ann’s Restaurant and Coffeehouse Five.
“Johnson County is unique in that we have so many nonprofits and resources that make an impact in our community; people do not necessarily recognize that some of our businesses are also nonprofits and your purchase can make an impact and change a life,” says Schwarz.
Ann’s Restaurant is the oldest family-operated restaurant in town. Located on a corner at 77 West Monroe Street, the restaurant is reminiscent of an upscaled ’50s diner. While many people frequent the diner for their homemade potato chips and cooked-to-order breakfast served all day long, they may not realize Ann’s Restaurant operates in partnership with Tara Treatment Center, an alcohol and drug treatment facility. Proceeds from the restaurant assist individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford the cost of receiving treatment.
BYTAVI uses the slogan, “From our hands to yours, we are a community of women who are connecting to one another through ethical fashion.” Located at 51 West Monroe Street, the boutique offers a collection of clothing and handbags made by women in their workshop in Cambodia. Each product has a signed tag attached signed by the seamstress. The shop is a project of the Center For Global Impact, an organization that strives to bring dignified work and fair wages to break the cycles of poverty, prevent human trafficking and create an atmosphere for generations of change.
Coffeehouse Five is located at 41 West Monroe. The building has a spacious sitting area with a West Coast vibe where you can find a sofa or chair and enjoy in-house roasted coffee. Pair your drink with their Midwest comfort-food items.
Brian and Michelle Peters operate Coffeehouse Five, which provides free marriage and addiction counseling at the coffeehouse. Through personal life experiences, the couple feels they have an obligation to help other couples and families. “Through Missions on Monroe, we hope to shine a spotlight on West Monroe Street, a unique corner of downtown Franklin,” says Brian Peters. “I think it’s fascinating that three organizations engaged in business as missions are operating side by side to not only provide great retail products and services, but to strengthen our community with revenue generated from sales.”
Schwarz says that during the Missions on Monroe event, each store will offer specials and an opportunity to win a giveaway with a purchase. BYTAVI will be offering 25% off everything in the store that day, and shoppers can spend $25 or more for a chance to win a sporty fanny pack. Coffeehouse Five will be offering 10% off retail bags of coffee and coffee pods. Ann’s Restaurant will offer daily specials and be open on Saturday for this event.
