Shop Small | Aperture Coffee

An interview with Julien Garman of Aperture Coffee Roasters in Woodstock, VA

First off, how did you start a career in coffee?

Well, my husband and I are very into good food, and I’ve always loved coffee. My sister and I used to sneak it into our boarding school (caffeine wasn’t allowed) and brew it early in the mornings before anyone was awake. As an adult, Shawn and I had such a hard time finding coffee that wasn’t, well, burnt. So Shawn started experimenting with a small roaster, and we quickly realized he had a knack for it. We launched when I was about 6 months pregnant, I had done all the design and Shawn handled the business side of things + the roasting. We’ve been having a blast with it ever since!

You're also a mama, how do you balance being a mother and running a business?

Probably not very well haha! I currently have a full time job as well, so it takes a lot of intentionality. On Saturdays, we completely disconnect from work and focus on family time. Then we really utilize the evening hours after Chloe (our 18 month old) goes to bed. Plus, ware so lucky to have family nearby to help when we are at events, it truly takes a village.

What is the hardest part about self-employment?

I think the hardest part for me has been realizing how long things take...how long it takes to become established, how long it takes to grow, to make things happen! Sometimes I have these big dreams and I want it all to happen immediately, but that’s not how life works.

What is the best part about self- employment?

The best part is definitely never having to worry about running out of coffee haha! But really, to have something to call our own. Something to be so proud of, something we made! And from that, the relationships we’ve built around that. Nothing is better.

What advice would you give yourself at the start of this process?

To give ourselves loads of grace through the whole process. Sometimes, life gets crazy and it’s ok to take time to adjust. Plans change, and all that is ok.

What are three things you couldn't live without?

Of course, coffee. Haha! Then my to-do list. Everything has to be written down or it won’t happen! And my camera. The ability to capture memories in a split second is so special to me.

Which coffee is your favorite?

Definitely our Costa Rica. It’s had a special place in my heart since the beginning. Strawberry and chocolate notes get me every time I drink it!

What's on the horizon for Aperture?

We are really ramping up our subscriptions this year...we love providing people with great coffee so they never run out. We’re also hoping to collaborate with other local businesses this year. It brings us so much joy to help other small businesses grow. Last year, we partnered with Walsh Family Winery to bring coffee to their brunches and we want to do more things like that for sure!

Photo by, Hilary Hyland | Interview by, Emily Dean