My dream began in 2019. I envisioned a small coffee place in and of Briny Breezes.
Not just another business, but a welcoming, modest, coastal-style coffee shop that fit the spirit of Briny Breezes — a place for coffee, pastries and conversation, a warm gathering space for residents and visitors.
Because I believed so strongly in that idea, I submitted a proposal in 2019 and another in 2025 — even while the beauty salon was still in operation — hoping that space might one day be available.
When the beauty salon lease was not extended, I submitted a third proposal and continued to work seriously on the concept.
This was never just an idea or a wish. My husband and I worked hard to create a business concept for Briny Breezes Coffee Co. Our presentation showed a simple, community-style coffee place with pastries, light offerings and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. We worked on the business structure, planning, concept and presentation because we wanted to show that our vision was well-grounded.
There was only one chance to present, and, due to unfortunate timing, I had to do it alone. I was nervous, but presenting something I believed in and had worked toward for years.
Another applicant, a younger businessman who already owns Deke’s Coffee, made a strong presentation and the board chose him — the more established operator — for what it described as business and sustainability reasons.
I understand that experience is often seen as the safer choice, and I respect that a board must make the decision it believes is best.
But what was painful to me was this: We were not outsiders who suddenly appeared when the space opened. We were shareholders with a vision that had lived in our hearts since 2019.
What hurt most was the feeling that being a startup counted against us more than the depth of our commitment counted for us. Every established operator once needed a first chance. I had hoped that our years of belief in this location, our community connection, and our seriousness of purpose would matter.
I share this not to attack anyone or create conflict. I respect that the board made its decision. I simply believe there is a human side here that deserves to be seen.
In small communities, decisions like these are not only business decisions. They also touch questions of belonging, fairness, local identity — and whether a resident’s long-held vision ever truly had a chance.
— Griselda and Dennis Gebhard
Briny Breezes
Comments