Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Orton
Hi Katie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The local coffee shop in my hometown had couches, a piano, and a big old wooden counter to sit at and chat with the baristas. I found this third space as a 17 year old, spent so much time at the bar that they offered me a job, and knew immediately that I wouldn’t tire of the coffee industry. For 12 years I have sought out bustling barista jobs where I get to meet the neighborhood and learn my customer’s stories – whether it’s your job, your interests, or your day so far. The Atlanta queer community has supported me endlessly in my personal life and my barista work, and my partner, Olsen, dedicated their time and creative talent to opening Waxing Coffee with me – a pop up coffee business aimed at connecting friends and neighbors.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I am unfortunately haunted by the weight of the world and the notion that I’m never doing enough, so spending my days in food service has led to low points of feeling inadequate. Despite myself, my work in coffee shops has always provided me with emotional connection, community, and a time and place for externally processing what is happening in my life, in politics, or in the city. I have repeatedly found healing and connection in making coffee for my friends and neighbors and am dedicated to using this platform to continue to do good in Atlanta and beyond.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Waxwing Coffee?
Waxwing Coffee is serving Portrait espresso drinks and (and bags of beans) at the Grant Park Farmer’s Market on alternate Sundays from 9-1, and we hope to host many more gatherings in the year to come!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have worked for many brilliant, compassionate, and charismatic women since I joined the coffee industry 12 years ago. While I never had a “mentor”, all of the women I worked with empowered me by believing in me, letting me be my authentic self, and giving me authority and the chance to find out what I’m capable of. I have only ever been encouraged to grow, learn and take on responsibility under the management of women in the service industry — even when I didn’t have any qualifications or experience!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @waxwing.coffee
