On the corner of Alden Nash and Cascade Road, nestled in a quaint trailer, Cup of Grace has become more than just a mobile coffee business. It’s a beacon of kindness and exceptional coffee. This delightful venture, led by Heidi Gingerich, boasts a unique origin story and a mission deeply rooted in love and grace.
The journey began in 2020 when a church youth group started a project to raise funds for missions through a mobile coffee unit. What started as a simple act of charity blossomed into a thriving business by 2022. Inspired by the group’s spirit and her passion for sharing God’s grace, Gingerich took the reins.
“We wanted to serve cups of grace to the community full-time,” she explains, “and thus, our business was born.”
Gingerich’s enthusiasm is palpable. “We’re kind of obsessed with the grace of God,” she says, her smile reflecting the joy that fuels her work. “When you’ve received such an amazing gift in Jesus, you just want to share it with others. Plus, we absolutely love serving coffee and donuts to people.”
Starting the business was no small feat, especially in a field as nuanced as coffee. “I knew next to nothing about coffee,” Gingerich admits. “I didn’t even drink it when we first started. The learning curve was steep.”
From mastering the intricacies of brewing the perfect cup to navigating business regulations and taxes, she faced numerous challenges. Yet, each obstacle only strengthened her resolve.
Their menu is a testament to quality and creativity. Among the favorites is the Country Road Latte, a comforting blend of salted caramel and hazelnut that evokes a warm, hometown feel. Their customizable hot chocolate allows customers to create a unique flavor experience with each visit. A standout is The Mom, an orange mocha inspired by an employee’s mother, combining dark chocolate and orange for a luxurious, Ghirardelli-like treat. They also offer a variety of teas, including a unique maple white chocolate with cinnamon and nutmeg.
The coffee’s exceptional quality is a point of pride for Gingerich and her team, with espresso beans sourced from Grand Rapids Roasters and brewed coffee from Schuil. But it’s not just about the coffee. Their donuts, a local favorite, draw crowds eager to savor these sweet delights.
On Mondays, the team travels to areas like Clarksville or brings joy to local businesses. From Tuesday to Thursday, you can find them on the corner of Alden Nash and Cascade Road, across from Heidi’s Farmstand.
Although Gingerich is the owner, the business thrives on the camaraderie of a close-knit team. “It’s run by a group of friends,” she shares. “We’ve pretty much grown up together, and working together is a blast. We get to hang out and serve coffee.” This sense of friendship and fun is infectious, making each visit feel like catching up with old friends.
Active on social media, Cup of Grace regularly updates their Facebook page and Instagram account with their weekly schedule, ensuring that whether you’re a regular or a newcomer, you always know where to find them next.
In essence, this mobile coffee trailer is more than just a business. It’s a sanctuary where faith, community, and exceptional coffee converge, creating a warm and welcoming experience for all. As Gingerich aptly puts it, “I love the relationships, love spreading the love of Jesus. I treasure being able to share that with other people.”
It’s this heartfelt mission that infuses every cup with grace.
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