Brewing Up a Dream ☕🐴

Wow… where do I even start? If you would’ve told me a year ago that I’d be running a coffee trailer called The Salty Mare, serving up lattes and smiles, I probably would’ve laughed and said, “Yeah right.”

But here we are. 💛

So, this trailer didn’t just magically appear all set to go—it’s been quite the journey (and honestly, a real labor of love) filled with tons of planning, research, and hard work. It all kicked off with the pretty daunting task of hunting for the right trailer and dove into various listings. It wasn’t just about grabbing any trailer; it had to be the perfect match for what I had in mind—right size, layout, and features to serve up the best coffee possible.

One of the BEST Baristas, Rili!

Once I snagged the trailer, the next step was all about getting my hands on the espresso machine and grinder. This was no walk in the park since I wanted top-notch gear that would last and deliver killer coffee. I spent hours researching brands, reading reviews, and chatting with experienced baristas to figure out which machines would fit my needs. After a lot of back and forth, I finally made my picks, and the excitement of having the right tools started to set in.

On top of the physical setup, I had to dive into the tech side of running a mobile coffee biz, which meant figuring out the point-of-sale (POS) system. This part was a bit tricky, as I had to get my head around the different software options, make sure everything worked with my payment methods, and set up the hardware in a way that was smooth and user-friendly. There were definitely some frustrating moments while I navigated through various systems, but every little win in setting up the POS felt like a huge deal. Just imagining taking orders seamlessly and processing payments without a hitch was super rewarding.

As I ticked off items on my never-ending to-do list, I felt this amazing sense of accomplishment that’s hard to describe. Every little “check” felt like a big deal, symbolizing not just a task done but a step closer to making my dream a reality. From designing the branding and logo to planning the menu and sourcing ingredients, every detail mattered and played a part in the overall vibe I wanted to create. With each milestone reached, it’s finally starting to feel real, and I can barely contain my excitement for what’s coming next. The thought of serving up delicious coffee and creating a warm, inviting space for customers is what keeps me going.

Testing out fall combos for the menu!

The Menu.. ohhhhh probably my favorite part. Creating drinks feels like painting but with coffee and flavor instead of brushes. I’ve had so much fun pulling together signature drinks like the Dusty Trail Chai Latte and the Salty Mare Latte, plus some fun whipped toppings that make every drink feel extra special. And now—hello fall menu ideas! 🍂

Pumpkin, pecan, maple… cozy season is coming.

Here’s the thing: this wouldn’t be ANYTHING without all of you. Seriously. Every single person who’s stopped by the trailer, grabbed a coffee, said “hi,” or even just followed along online—you’ve kept me going. Your presence is not just a fleeting moment; it’s a vital part of this journey, and I want to take a moment to express just how much it truly means to me.

From the first time someone walked up to the trailer and shared a smile, I felt a spark of motivation that has fueled my passion for this endeavor. Each interaction, whether it’s a quick chat, a shared laugh, or a simple nod of acknowledgment, has contributed to the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds this project. It’s the little things—the way you take a moment out of your day to say “hi” or the way you share your thoughts over a cup of coffee—that have created a sense of community that I cherish deeply.

Your encouragement has been like a warm blanket on a chilly day, wrapping around me during moments of doubt and uncertainty. There have been times when I’ve questioned whether I was on the right path, and it was your kind words and support that reminded me why I started this journey in the first place. The patience you’ve shown as I’ve taken the time to “stretch my legs” and navigate the complexities of this venture has been nothing short of incredible. It’s not just about figuring things out; it’s about growing, learning, and evolving alongside all of you.

I reflect on how each of you has played a role in shaping this experience. Whether you’ve been a regular visitor or a silent supporter, your involvement has contributed to a tapestry of connection and inspiration. The stories you share, the feedback you provide, and the moments we’ve shared together have all woven into the fabric of this project, making it richer and more meaningful.

Looking Ahead...

A Journey of Dreams and Connections!

This is just the start. As I stand here at the beginning of this awesome adventure, I'm super excited about all the possibilities ahead. There are so many more drinks to whip up, each one a unique mix just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. The chance to get creative is endless, whether it's making a refreshing iced coffee that screams summer or coming up with a cozy drink perfect for chilly days. Every drink is more than just a recipe; it's a story, a memory, and an experience ready to unfold.

A new addition to the menu!

Plus, there are tons of spots to set up shop, each offering a cool chance to connect with the community. Finding the right places to share my creations is key. Whether it’s a lively street corner buzzing with energy or a hometown arena where local horse folk hang out, every location has its own vibe and potential to draw people in. The idea of meeting new coffee lovers and chatting with people from all walks of life gets me pumped. Every meet-up is a chance to share my love for coffee and learn from others, swapping stories and experiences that make life richer.

But today, I just wanted to hit pause, take a deep breath, and think about how far I've come. In the rush of creating and planning, it's easy to forget to celebrate the little wins along the way. So, I want to say a big thank you. Thanks for letting me share this crazy little dream with you. Your support has been huge, giving me the push I needed to dive into this adventure.

For believing in me, even when I started to doubt myself, your faith has been a guiding light, reminding me of the potential this dream holds. Because of your belief, I've found the confidence to keep going, explore new ideas, and tackle the challenges that come with building something meaningful.

Finally, thank you for making The Salty Mare feel like it belongs. Your acceptance and excitement have turned what was just an idea into something real and vibrant. It's become a place where it's not just about the drinks, but where community is built, connections are made, and memories are created. This journey is about more than just coffee; it’s about building relationships and creating a welcoming space where everyone feels at home.

Looking ahead, I'm stoked about the adventures to come, the drinks yet to be created, the new places to explore, and the amazing people I'll meet along the way. Together, we'll keep building on this foundation, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes us next.

So here’s to more coffee, more community, and more adventures down the trail. 🐴✨

Until next time,

—Jessica