Made With Love

Story by Olivia Walls

Photography by Ashley Maisonet Barragan

Something you should know about Birchwood Coffee Co. is that the moment you step into this little shop in Apopka, Florida, you’ll instantly feel the warmth of a unique mixture: genuine southern hospitality, great coffee, delectable desserts, and lots of love.

As an avid coffee consumer myself, the smell of coffee in the morning is one of my favorite moments of the day. It’s interesting to think that a warm cup of brown liquid can be the centerpiece of vivid experiences. The kind of experiences that provoke deep connections with friends or invoke a peaceful moment all to yourself.

Danielle Bjork, founder & owner of Birchwood Coffee Co.

Birchwood Coffee Co is a family-owned coffee shop serving the community of Apopka, Florida. Danielle Bjork, founder, and owner of Birchwood Coffee Co has a passion for experiences that bring people together. Upon walking into Bjork’s eclectic shop, you’ll instantly feel the love because it’s truly a family affair.

For a long time, her sole focus was her family. All the while, in her heart, was a dream of one day bringing together the two things she loves most: family and coffee. In time, Danielle’s dream became a reality.

Birchwood features a full menu of coffee beverages with an assortment of tasty southern desserts crafted from family recipes passed down for generations. Everything is made fresh from scratch— including their flavored syrups!

‘‘What inspired me to open a coffee shop is one hundred percent my love for coffee and family’’, she says.

I’ve been drinking coffee since I was a kid. It was always the center of family gatherings, morning or evening talks, t.v. time, devotions—it was literally always there.

In the downtown area of Apopka, Florida, there aren’t many places to grab a cup of coffee. ‘‘I noticed that there weren’t many coffee shop options available outside of the Downtown area. So, I wanted to serve my local community.’’

While Danielle is a busy small business owner, her priorities have not shifted. Quality time with her family remains her biggest passion.

When asked what has been the biggest challenge she has faced while owning a business, she responded: ‘‘Time! Balancing work and quality family time. Because this is such a passion of mine, I feel the need to always be there. I have a phenomenal team; I just need to learn to step back.’’

As with most things in life, tough challenges often come with rewards. For Danielle, her greatest reward is having her four kids watch her live out the desires of her heart. ‘‘It’s truly amazing to be able to set an example to them of pursuing my dreams. I want them to know that they can do the same, with whatever their passions are.’’

Despite the ups and downs of owning a business, Birchwood gives generously to the farmers they source from domestically and beyond. ‘‘Their hard work is what allows us to do what we do. There are so many processes that take place before we’re ever able to enjoy one cup of coffee,’’ Danielle says. In doing so, they hope to bring awareness to the intricacies of the coffee industry from the fields to the mug.

(Grandma) Ruth's Cheesecake

Birchwood Coffee Co. is rooted in family tradition but continues to grow progressively towards the future. The Apopka coffee shop is setting its sights on ultimately opening up more shops in other communities.

Danielle & her mother, Pam

As Danielle puts it, Birchwood is not just for the here and now. It’s the beginning of a family legacy. ‘‘My husband and I desire to leave a legacy for our children and our children’s children. We believe that this is only the beginning of what we are meant to do and leave for generations to come.’’