Coffee, connection and community. For Dan and Brooke Loutzenhiser, the three are intertwined.
“People love coffee,” said Dan, co-owner of Stories Coffee Company, “and from the minute they walk through the door, whether it’s to enjoy a meal, listen to music, meet with a work colleague or catch up with the Bible study group, we want them to feel welcome. We just have a real desire to make an impact not just within our nonprofit community here but with each and every person we come into contact with. Our culture is so important to us, and we recognize it as a differentiating factor in this business.”
The company was recently recognized as a first-place winner in the Omaha Choice Awards.
From the bottomless Costa Rican-sourced beans and matcha lattes, the six Stories Coffee locations attract a multigenerational following looking to make a connection at the counter, on one of the comfy couches scattered throughout the artfully decorated stores, or on one of the outdoor patios.
Stories’ all-day menu is filled with delectable apps, wraps, soups and snacks. Live music events create the perfect opportunity to sit and immerse in a community-inspired atmosphere. For those just looking to relax, Stories is a place where connections occur. Those looking to grab a quick bite or coffee can get their order to go.
Dan and his wife Brooke are also committed to investing in the stories of others by supporting organizations doing good throughout Omaha. Each quarter, the company contributes a portion of its sales to a local nonprofit, strengthening the connection between its business and the community.
“We try to identify area organizations that most people haven’t heard of. Our hope is to not only give back a portion of our sales but to provide some exposure for them,” he said. “These smaller organizations are usually on a tight budget and a donation can go a long way to helping them achieve their mission.”
Diaper drives, veteran events (50 Miles March), the Omaha Children’s Museum, Little White Dog Rescue and Table Grace Café are just a few of the organizations that have benefitted from the “sip and support” program.
He laughingly tells the story of how involved he actually gets when coordinating these tie-ins. “Not too long ago we partnered with an animal rescue and somehow, with my wife’s involvement, we added a dog to our family,” he said. “Whatever group we pick aligns with our own mission of taking care of people and animals, and I think this newest canine addition to our family reflects that.”
“Everything we do is based on kindness and providing a welcoming and warm space that’s just a cool place to drink and hang out,” said Dan.
For more information, or to place an order, please visit storiescoffeecompany.com. Hours vary by location.
