Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Campagna and Jessica Lewis.
Dan and Jessica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
We both love coffee, like really love coffee! Dan wanted a food truck for a long time but circumstances prevented it. In late 2021, we started talking about a coffee truck and how much fun it would be. In February of this year, we were browsing Facebook and came across Wanda (as we lovingly call our 1966 Shasta). She was in South Carolina so we knew it would be a project to get her home but we’re always up for a challenge. A few days later, we were on our way to meet the seller in North Carolina!
We knew we wanted to serve a dang good cup of Joe and we didn’t want it to be like anything else that you could get around here. We started seeking out small roasters to send us samples. We both thought we knew exactly which espresso beans we wanted but decided to do a blind taste test. We ended up choosing the same one so we were sold on our espresso blend. Then, we accidentally stumbled on our cold brew and drip blend while traveling through Kentucky. We knew we had exactly what we wanted.
Once we got licensed, it was time to find somewhere to set up. Thankfully, our friends at Toledo Lamp Company gave us the start that we needed. Being so close to a few unique stores plus the farmers market helped get us going. From there, thanks to other area food trucks, we quickly started finding more and more places to set up. Our summer ended up being fully booked in a hurry which was a huge blessing! Jess comes up with lots of fun drink flavors and always seems to have an idea for a new drink while Dan is getting us into new places and doing the marketing side, we’re a great combo!
We were extremely honored to win Best Baristas in the Toledo area in the Toledo City Paper this year as well!
Going into the winter, we plan to make some much-needed improvements in our old girl so we can roll into next summer ready to handle even more!
We’re extremely grateful for so many opportunities along with a fantastic customer base. We feel so blessed to be a part of this amazing community!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It was definitely a challenge getting started. From finding funding (thank you credit cards) to getting rolling and finding places to set up, it was a slow beginning. Thankfully, things picked up very quickly!
Also, working out of a 1966 camper definitely has its challenges as well. It seems like there is always an issue but we can usually figure out a solution!
As you know, we’re big fans of Wandering Bean Coffee Co. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We’re a coffee and espresso trailer based in Toledo. We operate out of a 1966 Shasta that we lovingly named Wanda.
She’s an old girl but we love her! We pride ourselves on offering a lot of sugar-free options and flavors to suit any taste! Our signature drink is the Bari!
It’s a protein shake with a double shot of espresso over ice with your choice of flavor added. We love partnering with other small businesses to offer other items as well, from baked goods to coffee candles!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/wanderingbean
- Instagram: Instagram.com/wanderingbeancoffeeco
- Facebook: Facebook.com/wanderingbean
