July Newsletter

Hello again, everyone!

We’re back and it’s all happening! 

This last month has been absolutely HECTIC–but it’s full steam ahead now! 

The number one response people have when I tell them about Recess is, "Oh my gosh, that sounds amazing! When are you opening?"

And I grin (so hard my back teeth clench) and say, "Hopefully soon!" Internally, we’re spiraling through all of the inspections, back-and-forth communications, "lost" drawings, renderings, delayed orders, confusing "assembly required" instructions, and blueprints. All while another month of rent ticks by without the customers enjoying lattes or play day passes.

Now, at the urging of a fellow local business owner, I'm continuing to step way out of my comfort zone to ask for (and accepting) support in bringing our vision to life.

I know the world is full of challenges, and it feels strange to ask for help when every news feed brings another urgent need. But another small business owner reminded me that people genuinely want to support causes they believe in, like small businesses that create community cohesion. They want to see their dollars make a tangible difference in their neighborhood.

I believe deeply in community. In real connection. In small, hyper-local businesses. In creating a space for us to gather.

That's why I'm passionate about creating a cozy, comfortable, and inviting space at Recess Cafe where parents can connect and work while their little ones play.

As we eagerly await (yet another) rescheduled inspection, I humbly ask for your support if you feel aligned with our mission.

• A $25 contribution will get you a free drink on us and permanent recognition on our website.

• Every bit of support helps, whether it's a simple "like" and share, a $5 donation, or something more generous, it all has helped us create something incredible. 

NOW FOR THE UPDATES (there’s a lot):

• We’ve been slowly accruing the final touches for the space–my personal favorites being a fairy house for our window and our Jungle Jumparoo that Ira and Frankie sprint to whenever we are working from the space.

• Our train ledge is looking SO good. It will circle the entire cafe space and we are PUMPED to keep it decorated so there are always new easter eggs when you stop by. We’re already dreaming of pumpkins and Christmas trees in the flat bed cars.

• As mentioned in the previous newsletter, we’re working with the Ann Arbor Art Center to fill our space with local art. We got a sneak peek of some of the pieces they’re planning to install, and they’re WONDERFUL. The ability to share our walls with local artists, giving them a space to showcase and sell their art is exactly what we had in mind when we landed at 208 S. Ashley.  

• We made a last minute decision to knock down a wall in the back to open up space for our changing table, which keeps our bathroom free while allowing parents to take care of our littlest customers. 

• Our hexagons are stained and they look AMAZING. We went with a super cozy cognac and we can’t wait to get our curtains up and cushions into the little nooks. 

• When it comes to construction–building is 99% complete, plumbing, electrical and HVAC are all scheduled to be complete this week with all inspections wrapping next week ....this is INCREDIBLE. Now just to keep everyone on schedule. 

• We are PRESSING for an end of Aug open…a few weeks later than we hoped, but it is all getting really real. 

• HIRING – We are aggressively trying to lock in our hired staff ahead of our team training with Hyperion coming up QUICK! If you or someone you know is interested in a Shift Leader or Associate position, please reach out!

• Another enormous thank you to all of the continued support–every bit helps :) Again, we have raised over 5,000 dollars. That’s ABSOLUTELY incredible and so helpful. Make sure to continue to share our support page with friends and family :)

  • Chelsea Hohn (Wildscape Floral Co.)

  • The Watts Family

  • The Santer Family

  • The Looper Family

  • The Popp Family

  • Katelyn, Eric, and Juniper Schwartz

  • The McShane Family

  • The Cox Family

  • The Cusamano Family

  • The Shields Family x2 :)

  • The Korovesis Family (Field & Forest Farm)

  • The Oberly Family

  • The Mora Family

  • The Benmark Family

  • The Herzog Family

  • The Todak Family

  • Joanna Shields

  • The Jahanbin Family

  • The Worosz Family

  • The Cummings Family

  • The Barndt Family

  • The Kim Family

How can you help?

• Share our support page with your friends and family!

• Share our instagram and repost our stories and posts :) 

• If you know anyone seeking employment opportunities, send them our way! You can reach me at amelia@recess.cafe

• Tell us what you want to see at the cafe! What events should we host? What businesses should we collaborate with? What toys/books do your kids LOVE? Let us know at https://www.recess.cafe/contact 

Can’t wait to see you in person!

Thressa & Amelia <3