First meeting to first ownership: Foxtrot’s new chapter

It all started at the table by the door. Mckenzie Taylor and J.D. Harmon met at Foxtrot Coffee on Vine Street and have been together ever since. Seven years later, they bought the coffee shop they met in.

In their day jobs, Taylor is a real estate agent and Harmon is a lawyer. Both characterize Foxtrot as their “passion project,” however. When the couple heard the previous owner was selling the business and would close up shop if no suitable buyer appeared, they knew they had to act.

Taylor described how special it is to have a local spot with a good atmosphere and even better coffee. She has followed the coffee shop since before it opened.

“We just got used to having this bright spot in our day,” Harmon said.

They took ownership Dec. 20 with the intention of preserving Foxtrot as it is while still making additions.

“It’s got a great foundation,” Taylor assured.

“We didn’t want to change a whole lot,” Harmon clarified. “We’re not reinventing the wheel, just improvements.”

While both individuals are working professionals, neither has owned or run a business before Foxtrot.

“There’s no guide,” Taylor joked.

They described a steep learning curve but praised the expertise and knowledge of the existing manager and staff. With two months of ownership under their belt, Taylor and Harmon aspire to bring back events to the space such as trivia competitions, live music and game nights.

They also mentioned the possibility of adding some smaller food options like breakfast sandwiches and pastries. Taylor said a bakery will possibly move in on Vine Street, and she hopes to collaborate with them for more locally sourced menu options.

She said the importance of building a collaborative downtown economic ecosystem is paramount to revitalizing the area.

“We’d love Downtown to be a place you can go on the weekend,” Taylor remarked.

The couple said other improvements include a new espresso machine, signage, exterior paint and upgraded lighting for the outdoor seating area.

From longtime customers to first-time owners, Taylor and Harmon assured regulars they can still expect the Foxtrot experience they’ve come to love and look forward to the enhancements to come.