The Journey of Ottawa Valley Coffee: A Community-Centric Business Story



                                                        


 In the world of entrepreneurship, the path to success often comes with unexpected challenges and rewards. Josh Curley-Lanthier and Lisa Lanthier, the dynamic duo behind Ottawa Valley Coffee, have embraced this journey, creating a community hub that not only serves exceptional coffee but also supports local businesses and fosters community spirit.


Ottawa Valley Coffee is more than just a café; it’s a vibrant community center that prides itself on serving high-quality, consistent coffee, along with over 130 local craft beers. With locations in Renfrew, Arnprior, Almonte, and Petawawa, the business is committed to supporting small makers and veteran businesses through its local market offerings. A unique aspect of their operation is the monthly contribution of a portion of profits to different community groups within their geographical areas, highlighting their dedication to community engagement.


The choice of the name "Ottawa Valley Coffee" reflects both the identity of the community they serve and the importance of discoverability in the digital age. It’s a name that resonates locally while being easy to find online, a crucial aspect in today’s market.


Josh and Lisa, a husband-and-wife team and parents to four toddlers, embarked on this entrepreneurial journey together. Josh’s previous career as a police officer took a toll on his mental health, prompting a career change that would allow him to prioritize his well-being and spend more time with family. While the idea of opening a café had always been a playful dream during their travels, the reality set in during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic.


The couple did not initially plan to become business owners. However, the desire for a more fulfilling life and the opportunity to create something meaningful led them to take a leap of faith. Entrepreneurship, they discovered, was about embracing risks and taking control of their future, despite the hard work and long hours that came with it.


Ottawa Valley Coffee opened its doors in March 2021, right in the midst of the pandemic. Starting a business during such uncertain times was fraught with challenges, but it also reinforced their commitment to the community. Throughout their journey, they have learned invaluable lessons, particularly about the complexities of running a business with a partner. The importance of clear responsibilities, diligent accounting, and effective staff management became paramount.


The experience of building Ottawa Valley Coffee has been both rewarding and educational. The couple has faced numerous unexpected challenges, from the time commitment required to manage the business to the intricacies of interpersonal dynamics within their team. Yet, through these trials, they have cultivated a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and community impact.


Josh and Lisa’s story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Ottawa Valley Coffee stands as a beacon of local support, serving not only great coffee but also contributing positively to the lives of those in their area. Their journey is a reminder that the path of entrepreneurship, while challenging, can also be deeply fulfilling when grounded in community and passion.

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