28/10/2026
A little pause before the next encore🫶🏽
Over the past few weeks, through the rain, wind and everything in between, there’s been one question playing on my mind: “Can I continue to give 100% to my little business throughout the winter?”
For a long time, my answer was yes. And whilst my passion for Encore hasn’t wavered for a second, I’ve slowly come to realise that I’ve created a business that thrives in the sunshine, in a country where sunshine is never quite guaranteed. The challenges and uncertainty that come with relying on something so far beyond my control have been difficult to navigate, but they have never been a reflection of how much I love what I’ve built.
These past months have been nothing but special. From meeting so many lovely faces and learning of your incredible stories alongside your regular orders, to watching a little idea of mine become something real, I have genuinely loved every moment. But sometimes, giving something your all also means knowing when to give it a little breathing room.
And so, for Encore to grow into everything I know it can be, I’ve made the decision to close for the winter. Not because I believe in it any less, but because I believe in it far too much not to give it the best possible chance to thrive.
As of this Sunday, the hatch will close, the shelves will be cleared, and my little horsebox will be trotting off into storage for some well-deserved TLC. That being said, my mind is already working overtime on ways to keep Encore coffees flowing throughout the colder months, so please do keep your eyes peeled. 🤍
To every single person who has stopped by, shared a kind word, brought a friend, returned for another coffee or simply cheered me on from afar, I don’t think I’ll ever quite find the words to tell you how much it has meant. You have taken something that once existed only in my imagination and helped turn it into something I’m incredibly proud of.
So, this isn’t goodbye, and it certainly isn’t the final curtain.
Consider this an intermission, not a finale.
So much love,
Niamh🤍
