Crafty and Caffeinated
Espresso Yourself Blog
Espresso Yourself Blog
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Gretchen Preston, November 25, 2024
We are stepping back this Thanksgiving to celebrate with loved ones and practice gratitude. We are so grateful to our loyal customers and local community, who have done so much for us this year.
Have a great week with your family and loved ones!
How do you take your coffee?
Gretchen Preston, November 18, 2024
Image source: Adobe Stock
Coffee has been enjoyed for hundreds of years, and in the course of that time, we have found SO many different ways to enjoy it. Some of the most popular ways to enjoy your cup of joe:
A latte is made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk, creating a smooth and creamy drink that is, often topped with light foam. Lattes are served hot or iced and can be easily customized to suit your taste with syrups, cold foams, and whatever you'd like (yes, even sprinkles!)
The cappuccino is similar but has a higher ratio of foam to milk, giving it a frothy, airy texture.
If you enjoy a stronger coffee taste, a macchiato is made of espresso “stained” with a small amount of hot, steamed milk.
The Americano is a simple yet bold drink made by adding hot water to espresso. The flavor is similar in strength and flavor to a freshly brewed coffee, though there tends to be more caffeine.
A mocha combines espresso with steamed milk and chocolate syrup, topped with whipped cream for a sweet and indulgent treat. Who doesn't love a good sweet treat?
For a fast, strong, bold option, a single or double espresso is simply a concentrated shot of coffee without milk or water. It’s small but it packs a punch!
The cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours, producing a smoother, less acidic drink, often served over ice.
A nitro cold brew is cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen, creating a creamy, beer-like texture. Nitro cold brew can also be combined with French vanilla for a smooth, delicious, energy-filled treat.
Affogato is a dessert-style drink where a shot of hot espresso is poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, blending coffee with sweetness for a decadent treat.
Each type of coffee offers a different way to enjoy the rich flavors of espresso, coffee, and cold brew. If you've ever wanted to make these drinks your own, try using Instant Espresso Powder for a fast, easy home coffee craving!
Stop into Espresso Yourself to try all these drinks, or make something completely your own! We can’t wait to see you!
Don’t forget to check out our Facebook for more great drink recommendations! Espresso Yourself Facebook
Disclaimer: The linked product is an affiliate link as we may make a commission of any purchase made through our link.
Purpose: Inform AIDA Stage: Attention/interest. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
Gretchen Preston, November 11, 2024
Choosing the right knitting needles can completely change how you feel about a project. Whether you're just starting g out or you've been knitting for a while.
Metal, bamboo, and plastic needles are the main types and each has its pros and cons. Here is a quick rundown to help you determine which type might work best for you.
Metal needles are smooth and super durable, making them great for those who like to knit fast or work with slippery yarns. Generally heavier and sharper, they're great for intricate patterns that call for precision. Think socks, mittens, and the like. However, they might get cold and heavy in the middle of a project, which is not exactly ideal for an extended knitting session.
Source: Gretchen Preston
Bamboo needles are also lighter and warmer and have a natural texture that helps them grip the yarn better. This slight grip can make them easier to control-especially if you're just starting out, or working with a slippery yarn. They're also quieter, which is a nice bonus if you're knitting around roommates, family, or friends. A potential con is that bamboo needles can be a little more fragile and prone to breaking factor that adds to their likelihood of snapping, especially in smaller sizes.
Plastic needles are very cheap and light, and they come in a lot of sizes-including really big ones, which is ideal for chunky yarns. They can be comfortable to hold and won't weigh you down, but plastic needles are not the most durable and may bend or break if not handled carefully. Their tendency to bend can cause issues mid-project as well. If you're looking for something flexible and super affordable, plastic may be the way to go-just know they won't have as much longevity as either metal or bamboo.
Whichever you choose, happy crafting!
Check out our Facebook for more info! Espresso Yourself Facebook
Purpose: Inform AIDA Stage: Attention/interest. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
Source: Gretchen Preston
From Field to Fabric
Gretchen Preston, November 4, 2024
What would fiber arts be without farmers? We take great pride in providing high-quality, sustainably sourced products that stand the test of time.
Some of the benefits include better sustainability, being environmentally friendly, supporting local farmers and small businesses, and, of course, making unique colors and fibers that just can't be replicated any other way. The farmers we support are focused on raising their animals in a way that prioritizes their health and well-being to optimize their fiber production. From shearing to carding to dying to spinning, everything is done locally and made with love.
The environmental, sustainable, and creative benefits of farmer-sourced products cannot be matched by machines. Without farmers, we would lose the warmth, authenticity, and uniqueness that they provide to the fiber arts community.
Remember to shop local and support your local farmers and community!
Check us out on Facebook!
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention/intrest. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
Top Five Fall Baked Goods
Gretchen Preston, October 28,2024
As we move from peak fall colors and crisp air into the cold morning and the beginning of stick season and having to start your car ten minutes before you leave, there's still just enough time to enjoy the spiced flavors of fall before the rich flavors of winter take over. This week we've compiled our list of top five fall baked goods to enjoy before pulling out your ugly Christmas sweater!
These have been a staple in fall bakery items for years and a good reason! The balance of flavors is perfect, they just never fail to be exactly what you're looking for. They offer you all the flavors of pumpkin pie and cheesecake but you also feel good eating it for breakfast! ;)
Sometimes you don't need the whole crisp, just a taste of it. What better way to do that than with a cookie? These are the perfect mix of spice, fruit, and cookies. They pack a punch with cinnamon, caramel, and fresh apple slices.
Rich, spiced classic, bursting with freshly grated carrots, walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon. Creamy layers of cream cheese frosting balance each slice perfectly, from sweet to warm. Comfort food for any occasion!
These are a hit with everyone. The dark, warm flavors are always the perfect balance and go perfectly with a warm drink. They have a soft, chewy center, crispy edges, and a sugar coating that comes together in the perfect trio.
Let's get back to the basics:
Apple
Carmel
Puff pastry
The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, it features juicy apple slices on a buttery crust and a drizzle of rich, warm caramel. Each bite brings a warm, comforting taste of fall, ideal for cozy gatherings or a special treat with your favorite coffee.
These are only five of some of our favorites, and there are lots more delicious flavors to discover at the cafe. Come on in to try everything you love about fall before it's too cold!
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention/intrest. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
Official Artisan Yarn Sweepstakes
Gretchen Preston October 21, 2024
Exciting news! This week we are holding a sweepstakes!
The winner will receive:
Three shanks of artisan alpaca yarn
One set of Clover Takumi Crochet hooks
A coupon for one free drink of your choice!
Our artisan alpaca yarn is soured from local farmers and is very high quality, get it just in time for all your winter projects! Clover crochet hooks are made of bamboo and are environment friendly and super easy to work with. The finish on them makes the yarn slide easily and they fit perfectly in your hand to optimize comfort. Last but not least, who wouldn't love a free drink?? This can be any drink off of our menu of your choosing, an old favorite or something you've never tried before!
To enter visit our Facebook page, like and comment on our official sweepstakes post! Everyone who enters has an equal chance to win, the winner will be chosen by random selection. Please visit the "Promotion Rules" page of our website for a more comprehensive rundown of rules, prizes, etc.
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention Brand Engagement Type: Engage (E1)
Fresh From The Oven
Gretchen Preston, October 14, 2024
As the chilly autumn air sets in, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, freshly baked treat from your favorite cafe. This season we're fully stocked with your fall staples and some new treats to try. From spiced pumpkin cream cheese muffins to maple-glazed scones, every bite warms you from the inside out. Our apple cinnamon scones go perfectly with a spiced chai latte or a classic cup of hot coffee. Our apple and oatmeal cookies are always a hit, offering the perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and warm, spiced flavors.
If you are looking for something a little more indulgent, our caramel pecan tarts and soft gingerbread cookies are a must-try. So good you want to share? We have to-go options for you to share with your loved ones!
This is the perfect season to cozy up with a craft, a coffee, and a baked good and Espresso Yourself is the ideal place to do it. Don’t miss out on these limited-time seasonal treats—visit us today and savor the fall flavors before they're gone!
Check out our menu or treat yourself to something warm and delicious this season.
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention/intrest. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
Easy Beginner Projects
Gretchen Preston, October 7, 2024
Knitting and crocheting are great ways to relax, unwind, and find a new creative outlet. For a crochet beginner, a great option would be a hat, dishcloth, or headband. These projects are quick and use basic crochet stitches like single and double crochet to help build your foundation. A blanket isn't recommended as a first project as you tend to grow bored of the project and lose inspiration.
Knitting a dishcloth is a great way to get started, it is comprised of one basic stitch and also incorporates increasing and decreasing, a good foundational skill to have later on when your projects get more advanced. A scarf is always a great choice as well as it can be as simple or complicated, long or short, bland or as colorful as you would like!
Feel free to drop into the cafe to talk about patterns, find inspiration, or buy supplies to get you started!
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
International Coffee Day!
Gretchen Preston, September 30, 2024
October 1 is International Coffee Day! The drink we all know and love as coffee was discovered in 800 AD and has been enjoyed by billions since. Here at Espresso Yourself we aim to keep the love and tradition alive with well-crafted, specialty drinks that keep coffee interesting but also comforting. From the first sip of black coffee your grandpa let you try and the new drinks you discovered with your friends, we have it all. Embracing all the memories and traditions made along the way, come to Espresso Yourself to celebrate International Coffee Day with us!
Purpose: Attract AIDA Stage: Attention. Brand Engagement Type: Engage
From Farm to Fiber
Gretchen Preston September 23,2024
Locally sourced yarn is the heart of our craft supplies here at Espresso Yourself. We work together with local farmers and companies to create beautiful yarns for any project. We offer tons of different weights, colors and fiber contents so you can get exactly what you need for your next project. Local yarn is of the highest quality and has a positive impact on the planet while also supporting small town farmers. From cashmere to angora we have it all!
Stop into Espresso Yourself to check out our yarn collection today!
Purpose: Attract Sales funnel: Brand Awareness BET: Inform
Gretchen Preston September 16, 2024
Welcome to Espresso Yourself, the newest coffee shop and bakery near you! We can’t wait to meet you and share our love of coffee and delectable baked goods, made daily in our kitchens. From specialty drinks, to weekly specials to your favorite go to, we have it all. Everything is brewed from the highest quality beans and the freshest ingredients.
But that's not all! We also have a wide selection of crafting supplies, including yarn from local farmers, alpaca, wool and many many more. Stay tuned for classes and creative outlets and workshops designed to bring out your inner crafter and help you unwind.
Come on by Espresso Yourself to be the most crafty and caffeinated you’ve ever been! We can’t wait to see you!
Purpose: Attract Sales funnel: Brand Awareness BET: Inform