Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Howard.
Karen, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My story started 27 years ago when my addiction to alcohol and drugs brought me to my knees both literally and spiritually. My journey in recovery began then and through an anonymous 12 step recovery program, I became employable and trustworthy giving a large financial company confidence in me and a twenty-year career.
During this career, I had the opportunity to work very closely with small business owners and found a passion in my heart for them. When I retired from the financial institution my husband and I decided that a dream we had could come true. Serene Beans was born with the intention of giving people that are seeking a place to find peace and comfort. Wellness of mind, body and soul, with lack of judgment.
Great coffee, amazing local artists and a relaxing environment.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The largest struggle has been letting go of all of the material things, starting a business is long hours and lots of mistakes, but to have a passion for something that brings so much joy to others is worth every tear and drop of sweat.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Serene Beans – what should we know?
Serene Beans is a Serenity Shop, best described as a place for people in recovery to come and work their steps and seek a closer relationship with their higher power. We provide amazing local coffee and many gifts to celebrate milestones with as well as intimate places for conversations to happen.
We are very proud to bring an alcohol-free environment for families to enjoy live music and vendor markets at most Saturdays of the month. We held our first Serenity Wooza in March this year and it was a huge success that included 6 live bands.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
There are three people that deserve all the credit for the success of Serene Beans; my husband who has not wavered once during the process, he has been my backbone; my daughter who has been my right hand every step of the way who took a gap year right out of high school to help me get this off he ground; and my son who has been working at the shop after school and covering shifts on weekends; we have become closer as a family unit having to downsize our lifestyle and instead of pushing us apart it has brought us closer.
Thank you fam!!
Contact Info:
- Address: 1933 East Ave Katy, Tx 77493
- Website: serenebeans.com
- Phone: 8324375567
- Email: serene.beans9@gmail.com
- Facebook: Serene Beans
- Yelp: Serene Beans
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
