23/03/2024
Tredwell family,
Yesterday marked the one-year anniversary of closing our doors to the Aurora and Wheaton communities. Last time you heard from us, we were doing everything in our power to stay open. You all even rallied behind us with a generous Gofundme that helped us pay our employees after the money had run out. Every message of encouragement that came in and every dollar that was donated to our cause were all so humbling. I can’t tell you how many times my wife and I got choked up while reading your comments.
I started Tredwell because I wanted to bring a light to the community. A place where people could truly belong and be loved. We decided early on that we would focus on our friends, our families, and our community. Like I always say, we are a part of the community, not just in it. I love each and every one of you. I miss hearing your stories. I miss serving you. I know we had something special, and it broke me to acknowledge that we couldn’t reopen.
You see, I’ve had a very rough several years with my health. I had hope that it was getting better, but last year, it tanked drastically. That’s when I knew that I couldn’t keep the dream going. My heart broke. I had about 25 employees that relied on me to make sure paychecks were cut and to give a bit of stability in their lives. My employees were hands-down my greatest focus. Why? Because happy employees help create happy customers.
Our mission never changed, but the circumstances did.
Our name has a deep meaning. My best friend of over 30 years came up with the name when we were young. It has always been a statement. We only get one life and one chance to do something good in our lives, so we will tred-well as we walk through our time here. This same friend, Ryan, passed away from cancer three years ago. Thankfully, he had the opportunity to visit Tredwell and see part of his legacy. After Ryan died, I was even more determined to keep the business alive.
The physical shops may be gone, but the name of Tredwell will endure. This is why I am excited to announce three new directions I’m exploring—all born out of a desire to serve you:
First, I plan to relaunch our online store. You will be able to support us by grabbing some coffee or merch. Also, this means that if any of you still have gift cards, you will be able to use them. You will be able to purchase e-gift cards from our website, as well. I will be able to offer free local delivery and a reduced shipping cost for others.
Second, I plan to be popping up around the area with our full cafe coffee trailer. We will have anything espresso, coffee, and tea, along with our “famous” pastries. I even hope to be at larger events where we would offer a new, reinvented food menu for you to try.
Third, I am dreaming up a new direction that will allow us to be creative in a new way. I’ve had a lot of time at home healing, and have really enjoyed working with my hands on custom-made projects. I hope to launch custom products tailored specifically for coffee shops to use in their shops. On top of that, I’m working on custom Tredwell merch for you all. Everything from hats and shirts to custom mugs and tumblers. Maybe even custom keychains, stickers, and leather works.
We will keep moving forward.
Stay tuned to our socials to learn more as we move forward. We will post pop-up locations, events and festivals, and fundraising opportunities. I hope that you join us for this new direction and remember to always …
“Drink well. Live well.”
Chad Dawes, owner
Tredwell
