Students at Lake Highland Preparatory School have most likely seen teachers walking around with coffee cups that have a lion design and the word Qreate written on them. But how many of us truly know what the buzz of this coffee shop is all about? Why do teachers and people enjoy going there so much? Despite a plain appearance on the outside, Qreate is a calming coffee shop with a soothing atmosphere that combines creative expression with a side of coffee. The shop contains an array of exotic flavors of different coffees and teas from which to choose, in addition to a rotational seasonal menu. The shop also offers a variety of savory and sweet baked goods, including sandwiches, croissants, muffins, toast, and bread twists to pair with the drinks. A photography studio sets this shop apart from others, and there are numerous reasons why people hold this coffee shop so close to their hearts and favor it over other coffee shops.
What sets Qreate apart from other popular coffee shops is its incorporation of a fully functioning studio inside the shop. Well-known local photographers use this studio for their work as it provides them with a place to do their work that also serves as a place to relax and enjoy something tasty. There are even book signing opportunities for the work these photographers produce. Qreate provides the option to rent their studio for photoshoots and offers a membership plan for photography enthusiasts, which helps those who desire to have a more in-depth experience in this coffee shop’s studio. Artists can utilize color backdrops, free tethering, free workshops, and an open studio. Qreate‘s workshops include an Intro to Photography course and a Latte Art Workshop. The Intro to Photography course assists beginners to photography and is taught by Quay himself, and the Latte Art Workshop allows people to learn from the Specialty Coffee Association Baristas, “How to properly steam make and pour latte art,” according to Qreate‘s official website.
Another reason why Qreate is so special is its kind and friendly treatment of its patrons. For teachers working at Lake Highland, Qreate coffee provides a warm welcome from employees who really care about them and make a point of being hospitable. English teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Stein, enjoyed talking with employees along with her fellow English teacher, Jennifer Gower, about what trips they had. Jennifer also mentioned how the owner, Quay, “[K]nows [the teachers] all by name and lets [them] try new drinks and be guinea pigs every now and then.” The shop changed their opening hours to accommodate the teachers who wanted to purchase coffee in the early mornings. This inclusivity and prioritization of customer service makes people who go there feel special and welcomed, and contributes greatly to why they love it so much. All teachers described how the environment in Qreate is very calming and welcoming, so they enjoy tutoring there.
The coffee shop Qreate offers not only a pleasant environment but also boasts strong coffee and whimsical menu items, including a sweet potato latte topped with a roasted marshmallow. The shop’s intricate blend of art mediums and cuisine make the shop stand out from other coffee shops and invites those with a creative passion to explore what the shop has to offer. Impressive photographs and vibrant drawings on the walls encourage people to come into the shop and have a taste of what Qreate is all about. Creativity and artistic expression is not only accepted in this shop, it is encouraged. Qreate invites customers to embrace innovation in an environment that not only serves you coffee, but works of art.
