So, what’s the difference between a “coffeehouse” and a “place to get coffee”?
A coffeehouse can be beautiful & plush with fancy marble tables but most of them are quiet and simple. Their hallmarks are large rooms, small tables, uncomfortable chairs and non-descript décor…a bit like home only with interaction amongst strangers who often become friends. While décor does play its role and other guests do make a difference, that is not all there is to it...
What draws people to coffeehouses? Is it the coffee?
While good quality coffee does play a major role in the success of a coffeehouse, it is not the sum total of a successful coffeehouse. In fact, a coffeehouse is far more than any one contributing factor. Coffeehouses depend on what can only be understood when looking through the eyes of those who frequent such establishments; to these it is as a state of mind—a way of life.
A novice will wander into a coffeehouse, order “a cup of coffee”, gulp it down, pay and leave. To the true coffeehouse connoisseur, this approach would demonstrate that he has no idea about the art of coffeehousing. First, one does not simply wander into just any coffeehouse. You don’t pick up a cup of coffee on your way to other amusements. A coffeehouse should be an end in itself. And, the coffeehouse you frequent usually says a lot about you.
You don’t merely order “a cup of coffee”. You wouldn’t expect to be taken seriously if you ordered “pasta” in Rome, “beer” in Munich or “wine” in Paris. So too, when coffeehousing, you would explicitly specify which cup of java from the myriad of choices you would like to be served. If you simply order “a cup of coffee”, the Barista and everybody within earshot, will know you for an outsider. An outsider will quickly finish his “cup of coffee” and be ready to get on with the day. But, the seasoned coffeehouser will sip his coffee, nursing it along and cherishing every last drop and long after he has finished it, he is welcome sit and do whatever he is doing for as long as he wishes.
What is it that one actually does in a coffeehouse?
In effect, almost everything one might do as well or even better at home. One can read all of the day’s newspapers. They are provided free of charge, of course, along with a vast collection of current periodicals. Students do their studying, tutors their tutoring, writers their writing all while in the coffeehouse. You can play chess, cards or billiards if you are so inclined. And, it is a place to meet people. Friends meet just to chat or to delve deep into matters of life. Business partners negotiate deals. Lovers also meet in coffeehouses—a date where you can sit for hours on end on a single coffee beverage is surely easy on the pocketbook.
Good coffeehouses mean different things to different people
When the coffeehouser says, “I'm going to the coffeehouse”, everyone who knows him well, will most probably know which one he means. Coffeehouses, like people, have different personalities, not every coffeehouse fits every personality; the selection of one’s very own coffeehouse, as it were, is often the result of long process of evaluation and elimination. Just as there is no predicting when, how and with whom one falls in love—you’ll simply know you have found “your” coffeehouse…the chemistry will be just right.
Here at TGP we hope to provide for you that place you will call “your” own. Our goal is to not only make great coffee products and many other great hot & cold beverages but to also provide an atmosphere where all will feel at home. Our motto is a simple one but it is from the heart…
About me: The Gathering Place operates as a community & outreach ministry of The Gathering Place Christian Fellowship
We are located ? in Greer, SC 29651
Who I'd like to meet: This is a short video clip from "Work In Progress"...in this video they are in fact, performing at TGP. They are regulars here, come check them out!
This is the guys from Standing Small. We just wanted to take the time to apologize for the situation that occurred last evening. In over 2 1/2 years and 250+ shows we have only had to cx 3 shows. Unfortunately, TGP was one of them. We truly hope that we can figure out another date to come back. Hope all is well and Christ bless you all.
Hey guys! We had so much fun last night! Nicole was amazing! Thank you so much for everything. We left TGP with a whole new extended family! Can't wait to do something together again soon! See you all Sunday at CiCi'S!! =)
Cool-my brother in law, Chasen, is playing there on 7/7/07. He's the lead singer of the group Chasen. can't wait. Just wasn't sure if we could bring out friends with children. Thanks again!!
Thanks for stopping by and for the friend request.
Keep on doing what you do for Jesus and always remember that everyone can reach someone for Jesus and you are never too old or young to do something for God.
