This continues a series of stories begun last year on businesses in the Tyrrell County Chamber of Commerce.

Drinking coffee is about more than just a needed energy boost.

It is also about the shared experiences with other people in a community setting.

John Crail is offering a new twist to that experience when his coffee shop “Elements” opens on March 22 at 7:30 a.m. at the Vineyards on the Scuppernong on Elm St.

  “Jack and Grace had talked to us about putting coffee in the retail store. We loved the idea and decided to make it happen. It is a perfect pairing in the beautiful retail store of the Vineyards on the Scuppernong,” said Crail when asked how he got involved with the Bishops.

Vineyards on the Scuppernong is a business in the Tyrrell County Chamber of Commerce.
“We love coffee and the atmosphere of a coffee shop. One of our favorite things to do with our grown children would be to meet at the coffee shop for time together,” said Crail.

Crail’s family has been passionate about coffee for most of their lives and they have visited enough coffee shops to get a general idea of what they want or do not want.

“This is entirely a family adventure and we’ve collected and shared many ideas for the past ten years. Up until now we’ve simply waited for the right opportunity to take the next step. Our business will offer a wide variety of quality coffee, tea and other beverages including fruit smoothies. We’ll also include a few fresh pastries to pair with those,” said Crail.

  A coffee shop can be much more than just coffee. Fresh brewed coffee from personally selected roasters, iced or hot teas with herbal and fruit infusions, blended coffee or cream frappes, lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, chai tea lattes, and fruit smoothies can all fall under the merchandising of a coffee shop.

“The flavor possibilities are endless and we use quality ingredients at a reasonable price. And WiFi certainly will be offered,” said Crail.

Crail emphasized that his shop will be different from the generic Starbucks experience simply because of the local element.

“We will use one hundred percent compostable paper products and cutlery, and we will be personally involved in supporting our local community,” said Crail.

Crail explained a passion for quality and a sense of community that he and those working with him hope to share with the people of Columbia.

Each drink will then reflect this and is as unique as the community.

“The meaning behind our name, Elements, reflects the process coffee goes through before it reaches your cup. From bean to brew, our drink process is nowhere near prepackaged. We will grind, brew, steam, steep, and blend our way to success,” said Crail.

  The grand opening will last until 6pm, until summer traffic picks up and hours can be extended. “We will be here seven days a week and will also be glad to host events and live music,” said Crail.
For over 15 years, the Greater Tyrrell County Chamber of Commerce has supported the businesses and community in Tyrrell County. The Chamber also supports the visittyrrellcounty.com website, county tourism projects, educational programs, community events, seasonal bazaars and River Town Christmas. Business and individual memberships are always available. The Chamber Board meets on the third Thursday of every month at the Columbia Crossing Restaurant (8:00 am). For more information, contact Chamber President, Monica Mauffray at 252 796-6777.