There’s a new cafe in town, and it’s sure to bring positivity and opportunity like Buford hasn’t seen before. Brightside Cafe has been a dream of co-owners Jennifer Elinburg and Carrie Walton for over a decade. Jennifer, a Buford-born North Gwinnett HS alum, was first inspired to pursue this business venture as a result of seeing the positive impact students with special needs have within her own classroom. It didn’t take long for her to get Carrie, a Gwinnett County native and six year Buford resident with a passion for coffee, on board.
They quickly recognized the area’s high demand for a cafe that put love, compassion, and opportunity at its center, saying, “This community needs it; we’re opening this business for the community. There’s nothing in this area that employs individuals with special needs.” Upon discovering that their combined aspirations created an objective that would truly make a difference, Jennifer and Carrie took it upon themselves to open their dream business right in the heart of downtown Buford.
Brightside Cafe, located in the Tannery Row complex at 554 W. Main Street, plans to open in January, and it’s anticipated to be the perfect spot for people who want a delicious treat served with a smile. Brightside Cafe supplies espresso products, fresh-fruit smoothies, and a crowd favorite, Choc Corn – white chocolate covered puffcorn provided by Lawrenceville’s Special Kneads and Treats, Inc. “The Choc Corn goes like wildfire,” Carrie says. With a logo that says, “where drinks and friends make the best blend,” customers are sure to enjoy their beverages, goodies, and overall experience with every visit.
When asked about Brightside Cafe’s legacy, Carrie and Jennifer say, “We want to be remembered for being able to make a difference in these kids’ lives and making them feel like they can succeed. The real secret to this business, though, is that they’re blessing us, we’re not blessing them. I don’t think people realize that when they come in here, they’re going to be the ones that are blessed.”
Brightside Cafe is located at 554 W Main St., in Buford. For more information go to BrightsideCafeBuford.com.
