Since taking ownership in 2021, Jessie Drew Taylor and her partner Gavin have made significant strides re-visualizing their brand while continuing to build a space as an authentic family-run business as a community hub.
Each of their 12 core roasts and rotating features is beautifully packaged with an original design created by Laurie Drew, Jessie’s mother.
Based in Victoria, Laurie has helped play a significant role in recharging the coffee house into its new era. From the revamped logo to the coffee packaging illustrations, to the website design and business cards, Laurie has contributed her professional expertise, with an extra helping of a mother’s love. Jessie states, “It’s so wonderful because my mom knows us so well that she naturally understands our brand, she’s equally become a part of the brand that she’s helped us create. For us, it’s perfect.”
But, behind the designs, it’s not all been easy. Jessie and Gavin needed packaging that would be practical and visually captivating while still being affordable and easy to alter if needed.
“Every year, a few times a year, I have to make changes. That’s what happens when you have a product like coffee,” says Jessie. “We might think that we’re running with one concept for a long time and then the crop changes, or it gets bought out by another company, so we need to be able to tweak our product at any given moment. There’s a constant back and forth when it comes to our packaging.”
They found their solution in roll labels from Sure Copy, a locally owned print-production studio based in Courtenay. “Right from day one, when Jessie took over, I helped them decide on their labels,” says Justin, Jessie’s lead designer at Sure Copy. “We sat down, reviewed various options to find what would work best for them, and have since progressed from there.”
Justin has worked with Sure Copy for over 10 years, offering a blend of his design and print specialties to various businesses, small and large, across the greater Comox Valley. “What I enjoy most is working with different businesses because every day is always different. We’re always excited to work with passionate entrepreneurs like Jessie, and help them bring their ideas to life through print.” says Justin.
Jessie appreciates the partnership. “With things always changing, I needed a solution that was both affordable and flexible and Justin was able to help me figure out how I can do this easily and without difficulty,” she says. “Whether I have a problem or a last- minute emergency, I’m able to write him an email and know he’s got my back. I don’t know many places that offer such a personal touch. He’s even brought labels to me on his way home from work, which is so nice.”
On the horizon at the Roastery, New and exciting products are currently underway, with the labels holding an extra sentimental touch for Jessie and her mom: a bumblebee similar to the one they share in the form of matching tattoos. “I think that having a fully family-run business is something special, and people are really becoming more drawn to it again. I mean, it’s so meaningful for us to be able to see where our parents have left their mark,” says Jessie, “Everywhere we look, we see a part of our family there.”
