“We’re in a town of about 800 people. We knew that we wanted to start a business, but we had to think of something that a town that size not only needed, but could also feasibly support.”
Sometimes ambition exceeds experience and initial know-how. In the case of Kenzie and Quinn Reik, they knew they wanted to support their hometown of Odebolt in a way that would scratch their itch to become business owners. But what could a town of 800 people rally for and get behind?
Sunrise Coffee offers fresh, local coffee and meals throughout the day to citizens of surrounding communities. Their Facebook page provides rain totals for the area and high school sports score updates, and their storefront supports other local crafters. With additional bulletin board updates on their wall and social media channels, they’ve tailored what their neighbors are interested in and have made themselves accessible when they’re available.
Starting out as an idea between the married couple with four children, Kenzee and Quinn started renovations to a building Kenzee’s cousin owned and pitched the idea to a local business group. On March 13, 2023, Sunrise Coffee opened for business. Since then, they’ve expanded their barista knowledge, welcomed new products into their shop, and started Odebolt's first farmers’ market.
“We’ve hosted two farmers’ markets, and both were a massive success considering the size of Odebolt—13 small businesses for our first one and 27 at our last. Many of the businesses that showed up earned a spot in our storefront.”
Even though “coffee” is in the name, Sunrise Coffee sells a whole lot more. They’re open every day for lunch, and they also sell locally sourced eggs, homemade soaps, candles, crocheted baby bibs, and other products curated by neighborhood creators. Perhaps the most noteworthy addition is the recently launched wine lounge across the wall. Current plans outline a bakery and flower shop coming in the next few months.
A previous Main Street Series feature once said, “If you want to see cool things happen in your community, support it, do it yourself, and attend events that keep cool things happening in your area.” — Ashley Kalenberg, founder of Kalenblooms
Sunrise Coffee saw a need in its community and took it upon themselves to keep their community thriving and engaged. Although the business has only been around for seven months, its impact on the Odebolt community is immeasurable. If you’re in the area or just passing through, stop in for a cup of coffee, a quick bite to eat, or peruse the eclectic collection of items for sale from community members.
