When you think of a new business owner, a 20-something might not come to mind. Two Virginia Tech graduates are brewing up their future one cup of coffee at a time.
When you walk into Froth coffee shop and cafe in Roanoke County, the person who takes your order may likely be the owner. Luke Higginbotham and his twin sister Rachel started the business one year ago.
"It's been going fairly well. Everyday we see new people coming in," Luke Higginbotham said.
"I work in the area and I stop by probably about three to four times a week for coffee in the morning," said Denny Hoffmann.
Higginbotham has learned a lot about coffee in the past year, including how to make all the seasonal favorites. Pumpkin Spice is one flavor that's popular with customers at this time of year. "We have lattes cappachinos, Amercanos, mochas," Higginbotham said.
The counter at Froth is lined with two rows bottles filled with flavorings from vanilla and hazelnut to mint and amaretto. While you can order just about any kind of coffee you want make no mistake. This is not just a coffee house.
"Usually we come for lunch and come at least one a week." said Babs Smith who sat at a table with several other family members. "The food's really good and the folks who work here are really friendly and we enjoy it."
Higginbotham admits that starting a business in a recession was a bit scary and there have been challenges. "It's some long hours not just being in the shop but the behind the scenes," said Higginbotham. Higginbotham is also quick to point out that all of the hard work has many rewards.
"It is fun especially interacting with customers and getting to know them," Higginbotham said. "You see people come in once and see them come in again get to know their names."
Froth is in the Forum shopping center on Starkey Road in Southwest Roanoke County.
Luke Higginbotham showed me how to make a pumpkin spice latte. Click here to watch that video.
