Daily Inspiration: Meet Abbey Garner

Today we’d like to introduce you to Abbey Garner.

Hi Abbey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
ByGood Coffee was founded in 2016 by two determined parents Abbey and Darrell Garner who wanted to bring awareness of specialty coffee and loose-leaf tea to the suburbs of Long Island. Our core values are to put people first, listen then respond, innovate continuously and give back to our community.

Our story is in our logo the droplet, coffee starts with a great water purification system, then great roasted coffee, and a highly skilled barista. Our name ByGood Coffee was created from BUY GOOD coffee we took “U” out and created a slogan the only thing missing is “U” to buy good coffee. ByGood Coffee has been consistently roasting specialty coffee since 2016.
Only “U” Missing

The City of Winston-Salem, North Carolina is now the new home for ByGood Coffee. ByGood Coffee has seen exceptional growth in the City of Winston-Salem, North Carolina and its Thriving downtown City Center making it The Fastest growing and Vibrant Cities in the Triad region of North Carolina. ByGood Coffee decided to expand our vision, passion and story in the Brookstown Area of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

ByGood Coffee is focused on roasting the highest quality of specialty coffee, by consistently roasting coffee in small batches to ensure that our customers get the freshest roasted coffee delivered to them.

BYGood Coffee has continued to grow and thrive since its founding. We’ve recently expanded into franchise opportunities across the United States for individuals who want to join our journey—sharing a passion for specialty coffee and teas while building strong, connected communities.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like many businesses, the journey wasn’t always smooth. We faced challenges ranging from the impact of COVID to ongoing inflation and strong competition. Instead of backing down, we adapted, restructuring our operations to remain sustainable without ever compromising the quality of our products. We expanded our menu to include smoothies and hosted events to keep our doors open and our community engaged. We also explored loans and grants, though those efforts didn’t always succeed. Through it all, we found strength in our faith and in the unwavering support of our customers and community, which continues to carry us forward.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m originally from Trinidad and Tobago, where my upbringing instilled in me independence, creativity, goal-setting, faith, integrity, humility, and a deep respect for education. I was always encouraged to strive for growth and to better myself in every way. My mother played a huge role in shaping who I am today, teaching me skills like sewing, cooking, baking, gardening, and entrepreneurship.

When I migrated to the United States in the early 1990s, I carried those values and skills with me, using them to build a diverse and creative path forward. I’ve developed my own house-made syrups, crafted a signature chai tea that has become a customer favorite, and curated a line of loose-leaf teas. I also bake in-house, offering everything from muffins and cakes to popular gluten-free and vegan treats, including energy bites that customers truly love.

I’m deeply passionate about the work I do within my community and with my customers, many of whom have become like family. For those, visiting the shop is about more than coffee. It’’s about connection for me . I’ve built relationships where customers feel comfortable seeking advice and sharing their personal and professional journeys.

In addition to running BYGood Coffee, I currently serve on the executive committee as a Development Coordinator for the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership. In 2025, I proudly earned my PhD in Business Administration from Harvest Christian University, a milestone I achieved while continuing to operate and grow my business.

I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far and remain driven to achieve even more. Looking ahead, I plan to write my biography and create a platform called “Ask Abbey,” where I can continue to inspire, guide, and connect with others.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is our Sunday family dinners. Every week, my mom made it a priority for all of us. My parents and siblings to gather around the table together. She would prepare the most incredible home cooked meals, bring out her finest china and silverware, and bake cakes while making homemade ice cream using the slow churn that we helped turn. My siblings would usually give up halfway, but I always stayed the course until it was ready.

After dinner, the house would fill with music. My dad would dance with his daughters, my brothers would dance with my mom, and then my parents would share dances together. Those moments were full of love, joy, and connection. That stayed with me throughout my life. Today, I carry on that tradition with my own family, especially during the holidays.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bygoodcoffee.com
• Instagram: bygoodcoffee
• Facebook: bygoodcoffee