Building The Inclusive Brew

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself reflecting on this little dream I’ve been carrying for so long — The Inclusive Brew. Even though the doors aren’t open yet, it already feels alive in so many ways. Every late-night sketch, every conversation with friends and supporters, every challenge along the way has reminded me why I started this in the first place: to create a space where people feel safe, seen, and truly at home.

The Vision

From day one, I wanted this space to be more than a café. I wanted it to be a place where people — especially those in the LGBTQ+ community and our allies — could show up exactly as they are. Where you can take a deep breath, let your guard down, and know that you belong. That’s the vision I hold close every day, even when the hard work feels endless.

I’ve always believed that care and community are inseparable. Mental health, self-expression, rest, and connection aren’t luxuries — they’re necessities. I dream of The Inclusive Brew as a place that honors all of that, a sanctuary where kindness and acceptance are built into every detail.

The Process

These past few months have been full of research, walkthroughs, and design planning. Every decision — from lighting to layout — is guided by one question: How can this space make people feel safe and seen?

I’ve been exploring potential locations, learning about local zoning, and imagining how to create an environment that’s both functional and deeply welcoming. There have been plenty of challenges (as there always are when you’re building something from the heart), but each one has reminded me why this work matters. Creating an inclusive, affirming environment isn’t always the easiest path — but it’s the most meaningful one I could take.

Some days it feels overwhelming. Some days I wonder if I can really bring this dream to life. And then I hear from someone who believes in the vision, who shares encouragement, and I’m reminded: this is worth it. Every bit of sweat, stress, and sleepless night is worth creating a space that matters.

The Heart of It All

What keeps me going is the community around this dream. Every supportive message, every donation, every kind word fuels me in ways I can’t fully describe. It’s deeply moving to realize that people believe in this dream as much as I do. You’ve made this journey feel less lonely and more alive than I could have imagined.

I want The Inclusive Brew to be more than a space. I want it to be a feeling. A place where someone who’s tired, anxious, or uncertain can come in and feel held. Where someone who feels invisible can finally see themselves reflected in the care and thought behind every detail.

What’s Next

The work continues, and it’s both exhilarating and humbling. I’ll be sharing updates, photos, and moments from behind the scenes as things take shape. And I want you to be part of this journey — not just as a future visitor, but as someone who shares in this vision of community, care, and belonging.

If you’d like to stay connected, see our progress firsthand, and be part of this dream as it grows, sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Instagram. Your support, encouragement, and belief mean everything — and I can’t wait for the day I can finally welcome you inside.

Next
Next

Supporting LGBTQ+ Stories with Every Purchase