It’s no secret that coffee is a staple for many, with a significant portion of Americans enjoying it daily. While the debate rages on about its health benefits, former pro skater Taylor Nawrocki has found a new passion in the world of coffee. He and his girlfriend, Rachel, are the duo behind Buddies, a popular coffee shop in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Located conveniently near Supreme on Grand Street, Buddies started three years ago with a modest supply of coffee beans. Now, they’re moving over 150 pounds of coffee each week. This venture marks a new chapter for Taylor, showcasing how his entrepreneurial spirit is thriving after his skateboarding career. The Jenkem team, having visited Buddies and been impressed, decided to delve deeper into this new chapter.
The Buddies Coffee shop logo displayed on a banner.
The Transition from Pro Skater to Coffee Entrepreneur
For many professional athletes, the question of “What’s next?” looms large. Taylor Nawrocki, after his successful skateboarding career, embraced this challenge by venturing into the coffee industry. Buddies Coffee wasn’t just a random choice. It was a calculated move that allowed him to apply his work ethic and passion to a new endeavor. The transition wasn’t seamless, but his dedication and vision propelled Buddies’ rapid growth.
The decision to open a coffee shop reflects a broader trend of athletes seeking business opportunities post-competition. Taylor’s story showcases how the discipline and determination honed in skateboarding can translate into success in different fields.
Taylor Nawrocki, co-owner of Buddies Coffee, stands in front of his coffee shop.
Building Buddies: A Community Hub
Buddies has become more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. It’s evolved into a community hub where people connect and share experiences. This sense of community is a testament to Taylor and Rachel’s commitment to building a welcoming and vibrant space. Their approach is about more than just serving coffee; it’s about creating a place where people feel valued.
The shop’s location near Supreme, a major streetwear brand, has likely contributed to its popularity, drawing a diverse crowd that appreciates both quality coffee and the cool, laid-back vibe of the neighborhood. Buddies exemplifies how a business can thrive by building a strong brand identity and fostering connections with its customers.
A close-up shot of the Buddies Coffee shop’s espresso machine and coffee preparation area.
The Growth of Buddies Coffee
From humble beginnings with just a few bags of coffee, Buddies now moves over 150 pounds of coffee weekly. This growth is a clear indication of their success and the quality they provide. This rapid expansion highlights the careful planning and execution behind the scenes. It’s not just about serving great coffee but also about creating a sustainable and growing business model.
Taylor and Rachel’s story serves as an inspiration for other athletes and individuals who are looking for new challenges and avenues for success. It demonstrates that with dedication and a clear vision, transitioning from one career to another is not only possible but also can be very rewarding.
Taylor Nawrocki, is preparing an espresso drink at Buddies Coffee.
The Future of Buddies
The story of Buddies Coffee is ongoing, and its future looks bright. As they continue to grow, their commitment to quality and community will likely remain central to their mission. The couple has proven that transitioning from the world of professional skateboarding to the competitive coffee industry is not only possible but can be a successful venture.
Buddies Coffee serves as an example of how individuals can reinvent themselves and apply their past skills to new, exciting ventures. Taylor’s approach showcases how a passion for excellence can lead to success in any field.
A customer makes a purchase at the counter of Buddies Coffee.
Lessons Learned
The journey of Taylor and Rachel with Buddies is a story of perseverance, adaptation, and a keen understanding of community needs. They’ve shown that the skills and dedication developed in skateboarding—discipline, hard work, and a drive to excel—can be applied to other areas of life. Their success with Buddies offers valuable lessons for those considering their own career transitions.
Their ability to build a business that not only provides quality coffee but also serves as a gathering spot for the community showcases their entrepreneurial spirit and their commitment to making a positive impact.
Inside the Buddies Coffee shop, a mix of patrons are seated and standing around tables.
A New Grind
Taylor Nawrocki’s transition from professional skateboarding to the coffee industry is a compelling story of reinvention and entrepreneurial spirit. Buddies Coffee has quickly become a staple in the Williamsburg neighborhood, showcasing how dedication and hard work can lead to success in any endeavor. Their story exemplifies that even after a career in professional sports, there are opportunities for those willing to take a chance and embrace new challenges. Buddies is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and a strong work ethic are combined.
