Browsing: Small Businesses

Waco, like many other college towns, has an abundance of coffee shops for students to study in. While students often settle for convenience when it comes to their coffee, Dan Moroso, owner of recently opened Italian cafe “Azzurro,” urges them to venture out of the Baylor bubble to Bosque Blvd for a cup of coffee they won’t forget.

“I hope that people feel just a sense of a Holy Spirit-filled space that’s just welcoming to all,” Lim said. “It just shows that the heart of our church is within our coffee shop, and possibly, they may want to visit the church.”

For Baylor alumni Ashley and Alpha Newberry, entrepreneurial journeys have been a familiar pursuit. In October 2023, Ashley went rug tufting with her friends in Austin and was instantly hit with a wave of inspiration and a new business idea for what will soon be Fuzz Lab Waco.

The lifeline of the Waco Downtown Cultural District, Austin Avenue is home to many locally owned businesses, both new and old. A favorite among vintage and antique collectors as well as fans of “shabby chic” style is Cameron Trading Co.

“She has a heart of gold and her mission, honest to God, is to love you, and she is going to do it with these cinnamon rolls,” Cook said. “My suspicion is that the secret to Kimberly’s success has far more to do with how she treats other people than even the quality of her product.”

“Jimmie and Stevie Ray Vaughan: Brothers in Blues” documentary | March 27 | 7 p.m. | Waco Hippodrome Theatre, 724 Austin Ave. | Come see the work decades in the making by one of Baylor’s own alumni, exploring the stories of these two Texan blues legends.

For a more unique experience, take your Valentine to the park, specifically Mouth of the Bosque. There are tons of trails and it’s next to the river. Grab yourself a picnic blanket or take a seat at the gazebo to create the perfect evening.

Waco Downtown Farmers Market | Jan. 29 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. | 500 Washington Ave | This weekly event hosts local vendors, artisans and craftsmen in the heart of downtown Waco, accompanied by live music.

While neither entrepreneurs envisioned owning a coffee shop as their ‘when I grow up’ trope, they have successfully created a brand that has spread kindness throughout the Waco community.

Art a la Carte | until March 11 | Art Center Waco, 701 S 8th Street | This collective art exhibition features works of a wide range of variety from 17 Central Texas artists.

Four months ago, Houston sophomore Brooklyn Joseph began her hair locking services after doing a favor for a friend. That talent soon turned into a business venture. Joseph’s business offers starter locs, retwists and styling, which has allowed her to make money while in school.