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Writer's pictureGreat Companies

Stacy McFall - Great Companies Women Entrepreneur Award Winner 2023


Name: Stacy McFall

Business Name: Madison Perk Coffee Bar

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

Establishment (Year): 2022

Category/Industry: Food & Beverage

Profession/ Specialty: Coffee Shop


Company Detail:

Madison Perk Coffee Bar is a beloved family-owned coffee shop nestled in Charlotte's Madison Park neighborhood. With a strong commitment to community and exceptional coffee experiences, we offer a diverse menu of high-quality coffees, including unique coffee cocktails, all crafted with the finest beans and meticulous care. Our focus on inclusivity and acceptance creates a welcoming space for everyone. Through our warm atmosphere, local artist showcases, and community events, we aspire to be more than just a coffee shop – we're a hub for connections and memorable moments

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage:

What sets Madison Perk Coffee Bar apart is our unwavering dedication to delivering an extraordinary coffee journey. Our Mobile Ordering App offers a level of customization and convenience that's hard to match. Customers can tailor their orders to perfection, ensuring a unique experience every time. The fusion of coffee and spirits in our signature coffee cocktails is a rarity in the area, making us a distinct choice for those seeking innovative flavors. Additionally, our commitment to inclusivity and being a registered safe haven for LGBTQ+ fosters a sense of belonging that resonates deeply with our patrons. The community-driven events and local artist showcases provide a space for connection, setting us apart as not just a coffee shop, but a place where relationships are nurtured and memories are made.

Challenges Faced During the Journey:

Our journey at Madison Perk Coffee Bar has been marked by significant challenges, which we've overcome with unwavering determination and adaptability. Being a mother of two, with one child on the autism spectrum, has added an extra layer of complexity. Balancing the demands of running a business while providing care and support for my family has been both fulfilling and challenging. One of our initial struggles was establishing our unique identity in a competitive market. Combining this with my role as a mom presented time management challenges, but we persevered by meticulously planning and creatively branding to stand out in the crowded coffee scene. Another significant challenge was perfecting our efficient service model. Maintaining swift service while ensuring the quality of our offerings required intricate coordination and continuous process improvements. Introducing the Mobile Ordering App was a breakthrough solution that streamlined operations and addressed this challenge. In addition to these business-related hurdles, I've faced the challenge of being taken seriously as a woman in business. Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood and entrepreneurship, while demanding respect and recognition in a traditionally male-dominated field, has been a journey in itself. Fostering a true sense of community, while balancing my family's unique needs, wasn't without its difficulties. Establishing a truly inclusive environment demanded proactive efforts to ensure everyone felt welcome and valued, including my own child with autism. This commitment to inclusivity aligned with the broader mission of Madison Perk. Sourcing the finest beans and maintaining consistency in taste was another hurdle we tackled. Establishing relationships with reputable suppliers, refining our preparation techniques, and managing these efforts while attending to my family's needs required careful organization and dedication. Overall, Madison Perk's journey has been shaped by the determination to surmount these challenges. Each obstacle has been an opportunity to innovate, evolve, and reinforce our mission of providing exceptional coffee experiences and a community space that embraces diversity. My role as a mother, caregiver, and woman in business has only added depth to this journey, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and resilience.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

Absolutely, here are some pieces of advice for young women aspiring to be entrepreneurs or those already on the entrepreneurial path:


Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and vision. Self-confidence is your most valuable asset in entrepreneurship. Embrace your strengths and acknowledge that your unique perspective brings a fresh dimension to the business world.


Never Stop Learning: Entrepreneurship is a continuous learning journey. Seek knowledge, refine your skills, and stay updated with industry trends. Embrace failures as opportunities to learn and grow.


Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who can provide guidance, share experiences, and offer emotional support. A strong network can provide valuable insights and help you navigate challenges.


Embrace Challenges: Challenges are inevitable, but they are also opportunities for growth. Don't shy away from difficult situations; instead, tackle them head-on with a positive mindset and determination.


Define Your Success: Success isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. Define what success means to you and set goals that align with your values and aspirations. This will keep you motivated and focused.


Time Management: Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life can be challenging. Mastering time management skills is crucial. Prioritize tasks, set boundaries, and allocate time for self-care.


Take Risks: Entrepreneurship involves taking calculated risks. Don't fear failure; it's often a stepping stone to success. Assess risks, make informed decisions, and be open to exploring new avenues.


Advocate for Yourself: Don't hesitate to speak up for your ideas, opinions, and needs. Your voice matters, and advocating for yourself is essential in a competitive business environment.


Build Resilience: Entrepreneurship comes with highs and lows. Cultivate resilience to bounce back from setbacks, and maintain a long-term perspective even during challenging times.


Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Celebrating wins, even minor ones, boosts motivation and helps you stay focused on your goals.


Stay True to Your Vision: Amid advice and external influences, stay true to your initial vision. Adapt as needed, but don't compromise your core values and mission.


Seek Balance: Balancing work and personal life is crucial for your well-being. Strive for harmony, allocate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.


Celebrate Diversity: Embrace diversity in all its forms. Different perspectives can lead to innovative solutions and a richer business experience.


Remember, every successful entrepreneur's journey is unique. Embrace your journey, learn from experiences, and use challenges as stepping stones towards realizing your dreams. Your determination, creativity, and passion will guide you to success.




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