Every flavor tells a story, and Coffee & Cream of South Milford is a testament to that. This newly established business has made quite the impression on the South Milford community.
When Coffee & Cream opened its doors just over a year ago, the team knew it wanted to serve a greater purpose than your typical franchised coffee shops. Interestingly enough, there were not many other coffee shops in the town of South Milford, making it the ideal location to create a one-of-a-kind gathering place.
Rewind several years back, and you would find Executive Director Jeff Wolheter serving in ministry at a church in Kendallville. After years of successfully pastoring the church, Wolheter felt the calling to use his love for the lord in a new area. The only problem…he did not know what that meant.
Since his background was in studying missions and culture, Wolheter continued to pray on how he could combine the two. He decided to move back near South Milford where he grew up, and see what opportunities there were. What he did know is that he wanted Jesus to be at the heart of whatever he decided to do.
One day he heard about an old corner building that was up for sale. After checking it out, he somewhat jokingly said it would be the perfect spot to build a unique coffee shop. Mike Rowe, CEO of Coffee & Cream, was instantly on board. His fired-up energy was contagious not only to Wolheter, but also the South Milford community. The issue they faced was how to turn this rugged, beaten-down old building into their vision of a beautiful spot that customers would want to visit.
As word caught on, individuals in the community began to donate their time and money to help flip this building into something wonderful. Wolheter and Rowe began receiving financial donations, grants and hands-on labor. For example, many of the big renovation projects were undertaken out of the good of the community members’ hearts. The hickory hardwood floors were completely donated, as were the lighting and cabinets.
The vision of Coffee & Cream was beginning to be everything they imagined and more.
Since Coffee & Cream is a nonprofit business, these donations and helping hands were a key piece of making this business happen.
According to Wolheter, his main goal is to “bring the church to the people.” In other words, instead of crossing his fingers that a new person in the community give church a try for the first time, he would rather bring the love of Jesus to them.
When someone walks in the shop, they will instantly feel loved, wanted and relaxed. Whether it is their first time or their regular meeting spot, the staff will exude grace among all patrons. Now for the hard part – what do you choose to order?
Some of the most popular drinks include their Lavender and Blackberry Lemonade, Hot and Iced Coffee, and White Mocha. While you are there, why not add a baked pastry from one of their local bakeries? Choose from options like bagels, croissants, pretzel braids, scones, and cinnamon rolls. They plan to continue adding more substantial food items later this year, such as breakfast sandwiches, soups and salads.
End your visit with a scoop or two of their delicious ice cream that is made right in Indianapolis. The flavors will be on rotation depending on the day of the week. Some flavors to look out for include Chocolate Peanut Butter, Grasshopper made with mint, Oreo, as well as fudge, sundaes, milkshakes and toppings galore.
According to Wolheter, the most rewarding part of the whole journey has been witnessing how the community has come together for this project. Not only is he proud of everyone who has contributed, but he also finds it amazing how proud the community is. It truly is a team effort.
Next time you’re looking to gather with friends or family, find a quiet spot to work, or simply want the best coffee and ice cream around, consider stopping by Coffee & Cream.
You can find them on Instagram and Facebook @CoffeeandCreamofSouthMilford. They can be reached by phone at 260-220-2440, and in person at 8015 East 750 South in South Milford.
